British politician Enoch Powell, renowned for his thought-provoking insights into contemporary British life, died on 8 February 1998 at the age of 85. Born in 1912 in Birmingham, England, Enoch began his political career as a member of the Conservative Party in 1950 and was an influential figure in British politics for five decades. He rose to national prominence in 1968 with his controversial 'Rivers of Blood' speech which highlighted his opposition to the 1964 Race Relations Bill. Powell served in a number of cabinet posts, including Minister of Health, and was a strong advocate of free-market economics, and of what he termed 'enlightened democracy' during his time in Parliament. He left the Conservative Party in 1974, and later joined the Ulster Unionist Party, of which he was later leader from 1974 to 1987. He retained his seat in the House of Commons until 1987. In his later years, Enoch Powell returned to writing and published a number of books on political, economic, and historical topics. He also wrote a weekly column for the Daily Telegraph. Enoch Powell's death was marked with immense respect and appreciation of his long and distinguished career. He is remembered for his significant efforts to promote economic and political liberty and as a champion for those most in need.