Conrad Black

Conrad Moffat Black, Baron Black of Crossharbour, born on August 25, 1944, is a prominent Canadian-British figure known for his multifaceted career as a writer, politician, newspaper publisher, financier, and columnist. He is the son of businessman George Montegu Black II, who had substantial interests in Canadian manufacturing, retail, and media through the Ravelston Corporation. Following their father's death in 1976, Conrad and his brother Montegu took control of Ravelston, subsequently divesting most of their non-media assets to concentrate on newspaper publishing.

Under Black's leadership, Hollinger International emerged as a major player in the media landscape, once ranking as the world's third-largest English-language newspaper empire. The company published notable titles such as The Daily Telegraph, Chicago Sun-Times, The Jerusalem Post, and National Post, alongside numerous community newspapers across North America. However, his tenure was marred by controversy surrounding the sale of company assets.

In 2001, Black was granted a life peerage, relinquishing his Canadian citizenship to accept the title due to the Nickle Resolution, which prohibits British honors for Canadian citizens. He regained his Canadian citizenship in 2023. His legal troubles began in 2007 when he was convicted of fraud in a U.S. district court. Although some charges were overturned, he was ultimately sentenced to forty-two months in prison and fined one hundred twenty-five thousand dollars for felony fraud and obstruction of justice. In 2019, he received a federal pardon from President Donald Trump.

A prolific author and columnist, Black has contributed to the National Post since its inception in 1998 and has penned eleven books, primarily focusing on Canadian and American history. His works include biographies of notable figures such as Quebec premier Maurice Duplessis and U.S. presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Richard Nixon, and Donald Trump, along with two memoirs. Additionally, he has hosted two interview shows on VisionTV, showcasing his political conservatism and unique perspectives, including his support for Roosevelt's New Deal.