Basil Hume (1923–1999) was an English Roman Catholic cardinal and the Archbishop of Westminster from 1976 until his death in 1999. Born George Basil Hume in Newcastle upon Tyne, he was educated at Ampleforth College and later joined the Benedictine monastic community there, taking the name Basil. He became Abbot of Ampleforth in 1963. In 1976, he was appointed Archbishop of Westminster by Pope Paul VI and was made a cardinal the same year. Hume quickly gained wide respect across religious and political lines for his humility, wisdom, and pastoral care. He played a key role in improving relations between the Catholic Church and the Church of England, and he became a well-regarded public figure in Britain. Cardinal Hume died of cancer in 1999, and he is remembered for his spiritual leadership, ecumenical efforts, and gentle demeanor.