Sir Solomon Hochoy, TC, GCMG, GCVO, OBE Former Governor-General of Trinidad and Tobago
Sir Solomon Hochoy (20 April 1905 - 15 November 1983) was the last British Governor of Trinidad and Tobago, the first non-white Governor and the first Governor General after independence and the first British viceroy of non-European descent.
Early life and eduaction
Of Hakka Chinese background, Solomon Hochoy was born on 20 April 1905 in Jamaica, and arrived in Trinidad at the age of 2. He grew up in the village of Blanchisseuse and attended St. Mary's College from 1917 to 1922.
Career
In 1927, he began his distinguished career in the Civil Service. He served in various posts, and quickly worked his way up the organizational ladder. He served in the following posts during his career in the Civil Service: Junior tally clerk (1927), Labour Commissioner (1949), Deputy Colonial Secretary (1954), and Colonial Secretary (1956).
Hochoy was appointed the first non-white Governor in the entire British Empire in 1960 (the first West Indian to be Governor).
When Trinidad and Tobago became independent in 1962 Hochoy was appointed Governor General. He retired from that position in 1972 and was succeeded by Ellis Clarke. After retirement he returned to Blanchisseuse where he spent the remainder of his life.
Honours and awards
He was bestowed the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1952 and the Companion of St. Michael and St. George in 1960. He was made a Knight Bachelor in 1963 and later, the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St. Michael and St.George (KCMG), the Knight of the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO)..
Sir Solomon was one of the first to be awarded the country’s highest honour: the Trinity Cross in 1969. He also holds El Gran Cordon, the highest national award in Venezuela. UWI has given him an honorary doctor of laws degree.
Death and Legacy
Sir Solomon died on 15 November 1983, aged 78.
The Sir Solomon Hochoy Highway and the Solomon Hochoy Trophy (for football) are named in his honour.
Resources
VIDEO GALLERY
Parliamentary Personalities - Sir Solomon Hochoy
Sources
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solomon_Hochoy
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QUICK FACTS
Occupation
Statesman
Date of Birth
20 April 1905
Place of Birth
Jamaica
Date of Death
15 November 1983 (aged 78)
Place of Death
Blanchisseuse, Trinidad and Tobago
Notable Accomplishments
Governor of Trinidad and Tobago: 4 July 1960 - 31 August 1962
Governor-General of Trinidad and Tobago: 31 August 1962 – 15 September 1972
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