Ian Douglas Smith
Ian Douglas Smith, (1919- ). Rhodesian politician. Following a distinguished career in the RAF in World War II, during which he was shot down twice, he entered Southern Rhodesian politics in 1948. After be-coming prime minister n 1964, he made a unilateral declaration of independence for Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and set up a constitution with white minority rule. This was considered illegal by Britain. Under US pressure he entered into discussions on black majority rule (1979-80). During this period he was minister with-out portfolio in the transitional government of Bishop Muzorewa. Following the introduction of majority rule in 1980 he remained an MP until 1988.
