Sir Winston Churchill was a firm proponent of life insurance.
He stated:
“If I had my way, I would write the word ‘insure’ upon the door of every cottage and upon the blotting book of every public man, because I am convinced, for sacrifices so small, families and estates can be protected against catastrophes which would otherwise smash them up forever.”
Sir Winston had his very own life insurance policy in 1896 when he was 21, just before he left to serve his country as the second Lieutenant with the 4th (Queen’s Own) Hussars in 1896.
According to the Aviva archives:
“As a young officer in the 4th Queen’s Own Hussars, Winston Churchill took out a personal accident policy with the Accident Insurance Company Ltd (No.2). The policy covered accidental death for £1,000, with lesser benefits in the event of disablement”
The archives also provide more information on Mr Churchill’s life insurance policy as follows:
“The annual premium of £6 14s (£6.70) included risks from steeplechasing and other forms of racing, plus travel and temporary residence outside Europe.”
The wonder of Winston Churchill and his legendary altercations and unhealthy habits undoubtedly indicate a substantial premium in today’s market. His quote: “You must put your head into the lion’s mouth if the performance is to be a success” accurately described his risky attitude to life. While he rode his horses into battle, on the racetrack on the polo field, escaped death from his numerous serious car accidents and smoked, drank and ate like there was no tomorrow. In today’s culture of risk aversion, his monthly premium would surely reflect his precarious habits adversely!
Have a look at the Aviva archive to see his famous signature on the policy document, and some other notable names insured.
Altogether, a charismatic and intriguing human being with colossal presence. However, today, sadly, Sir Winston’s name has alternative insurance connotations to many, and not always remembered for his leadership skills. In fact, despite his literary accomplishments, political reforms and wartime heroics, Winston Churchill continues to allude many youngsters, who frequently refer to him as a “boss of an insurance company” or a nodding British bulldog!
Sir Winston understood the facts about life insurance!
One thing is clear, Sir Winston Churchill had the right idea about life insurance, and the reasoning behind his support of protecting loved ones is still pertinent today. Despite these facts, incredibly, many people fail to secure the financial security and future of their loved ones with a suitable life insurance policy.
Life insurance as a product has evolved over the years to reflect modern living and may appear complicated, as no two policies are the same. However, necessity has driven change and demand. With advancements in medicine and technology, coupled with the vast amount of products and providers sees premiums driven down and it is easier than ever to obtain life insurance for very little outlay. Of course, this depends on individual circumstances, and it is essential to talk to a professional to get the right advice and, of course, the right cover.
As expert life insurance advisors, with innovative technologies and extensive knowledge of the market, you can rely on us to provide impartial, practical advice on life insurance cover to suit you and your loved ones.
In the words of wise Sir Winston, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give”. How we construe his meaningful quote is subjective. Ultimately, when a partner, parent, primary caregiver dies, the debts and living expenses often become untenable for those left behind. Life insurance mitigates a myriad of difficulties, from dealing with grief, paying the mortgage each month, ensuring children can go to college. The list is endless. Ending on one more appropriate quote: “It is not in our power to anticipate our destiny.” — Winston Churchill, 1932
As a family, do not let life insurance be an afterthought, make it a priority!
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