Edward Heath was a British politician who served as Prime Minister from 1970 to 1974. He was the leader of the Conservative Party and is known for his role in bringing the United Kingdom into the European Economic Community in 1973, which later became the European Union. Heath's government focused on modernizing the economy and addressing industrial relations. Heath was born on July 9, 1916, in Bournemouth, England. Before becoming Prime Minister, he held various positions, including Minister of Transport and Leader of the Opposition. After losing the 1974 election, he continued to serve in Parliament until his retirement in 2001.