William Gladstone — a great reformer and anti-imperialist

ACHIEVEMENTS

A GIANT of British history who served a record four separate spells as Prime Minister (1868-74, 1880-85, February-July 1886, and 1892-94). Aged 84 when left office for the last time. Dominated the political landscape throughout the late 19th century and stood as a beacon of reform. Had a full state funeral in 1898 and was buried at Westminster Abbey.

CHARACTER

A MAN of titanic energy, blessed with a powerful intellect and a unique gift as an orator. Combined reforming vision with a profound sense of moral earnestness much admired by Victorians. Wrote about theology and Ancient Greece in his spare time. Estimated to have read more than 20,000 books in six different languages.

BACKGROUND

BORN in Liverpool in 1809, the son of wealthy merchant Sir John Gladstone and his wife Anne MacKenzie Robertson. Both parents were of Scottish descent. Attended Seaforth preparatory school, Eton and Christ Church College, Oxford. Showed much promise as a student, gaining a first-class degree and was president of the Union debating society. Helped by aristocratic patronage, became MP for Newark in 1833 at the age of 23.

DODGY ANCESTRY

IN THE 1820s, his father was one of the world’s largest slave owners (he had nine plantations across Jamaica and British Guiana and his key role in this lucrative trade was emphasised by his time as chairman of the West India Association).

POLITICAL JOURNEY

BEGAN his career as a Conservative reactionary. Described as ‘the rising hope of those stern, unbending Tories’ by historian Lord Macaulay. His outlook was transformed in the 1840s by the debate over free trade and he became a warrior for liberty. Campaigned vigorously for Irish self-governance, Parliamentary reform and human rights.

MARRIAGE

AFTER a lengthy and sometimes awkward courtship, married aristocratic Catherine Glynne in 1839. They had eight children.

WOMEN

HE WAS tortured by the conflict between his devout Christian faith and his explosive sex drive. Found an outlet through rescue work with prostitutes, although these activities still created strong feelings of guilt. Used to whip himself — with ‘self-scourging’ marked in his diary by the sign ¥.