A cathode for an electron tube has a layer of electron-emissive substance containing alkaline earth metal carbonates having capillary crystals, to which 0.01-20.0 wt % of both a lanthanum (La) compound and a magnesium (Mg) compound or an La--Mg compound, based upon the weight of the alkaline earth metal carbonate, is added. The cathode enjoys full interchangeability with a conventional oxide cathode and a 15-20% longer lifetime.