Michael Joseph Savage was a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the Prime Minister from 1935 to 1940. He was a key figure in the establishment of the New Zealand Labour Party and is often credited with laying the foundations of the modern welfare state in New Zealand. His government introduced significant social reforms, including unemployment benefits and public health initiatives. Savage was born on March 23, 1872, in Australia and immigrated to New Zealand in 1907. He became known for his strong leadership during the Great Depression, advocating for the rights of workers and the unemployed. His legacy continues to influence New Zealand's social policies today.