Oxford Union Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
The Oxford Union Society, commonly referred to simply as the Oxford Union, is a private debating society whose membership is drawn primarily from the University of Oxford. The Oxford Union was founded in 1823 using the Cambridge Union as a model. It has gained a worldwide reputation for the cut and thrust of its debate, proving a valuable training ground for many future British prime ministers.The Oxford Union is often confused by visitors with the Oxford University Student Union, a completely separate organisation at Oxford which is the officially recognised student representative body of the University.
The Oxford Union buildings are located in Frewin Court, off Cornmarket Street and St. Michael's Street, and contain a library as well as the famous debating chamber, which has played host to such figures as the Dalai Lama, Robert Kennedy, Malcolm X, Winston Churchill, Jon Bon Jovi, Clint Eastwood, David Blaine and Kermit the Frog.
The infamous 'President's Drinks' is a weekly invitation-only drinks party that occurs after the debate on a Thursday. It has led to the Union being acussed of being cliquey and has meant many question whether the £150+ membership fee is good value for money.
The society is run by a committee of students, elected every term from the membership. The post of President of the Oxford Union is much sought-after, and is often the starting point for a successful political career (though more recently a career in management consultancy is a more typical destination). Famous past presidents include:
Other officers of the Union who have achieved political success include Harold Macmillan and Roy Jenkins.
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