The Oxford Union reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Apr-2004 (provided by Fixed Reference: snapshots of Wikipedia from wikipedia.org)

Oxford Union

The Oxford Union Society, commonly referred to simply as the Oxford Union, is a private debating society whose membership is drawn primarily from the University of Oxford. A parallel organisation exists in Cambridge. Founded in 1823, it has gained a worldwide reputation for the cut and thrust of its debate, proving a valuable training ground for many future British prime ministers.

The Oxford Union is often confused by visitors with the Oxford University Student Union, a completely separate organisation at Oxford which is the recognised student government of the University.

The Oxford Union buildings are located in Frewin Court, off the Cornmarket, and contain a library and restaurant, as well as the famous debating chamber, which has played host to such figures as the Dalai Lama, Robert Kennedy, Malcolm X, Winston Churchill, Jon Bon Jovi, Kermit the Frog and Tobi Rufus.

The society is run by a committee of students, elected every term from the membership. The post of President of the Oxford Union is much sought-after, and is often the starting point for a successful political career. Famous past presidents include:

• Herbert Henry Asquith
• Benazir Bhutto
• William Ewart Gladstone
• Edward Heath
• Harold Macmillan

Ruzwana Bashir recently became the first British-born Asian female to be elected, in a highly publicised battle against James Forsyth and Matthew Richardson.

Official Web Site

• Oxford Union official site
• BBC News article on Oxford Union

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