John Curtin was the 14th prime minister of Australia, serving from 1941 until his death in 1945. He held office as the leader of the Australian Labor Party (ALP), and is notable for leading the country through the majority of World War II, including all but the last few weeks of the Pacific War. Born: January 8, 1885 Died: July 5, 1945 In office: October 7, 1941 – July 5, 1945 Wiki link