Life of Henry Brougham

Abstract

Henry Brougham, whose public life has been documented by five book-length biographies, numerous shorter articles and his three-volume autobiography, was a very active public figure.¹ He was for many years considered to be the most popular parliamentarian in England and the most powerful speaker in the House of Commons. Later in his career he was elevated to the top legal position in the country, that of Lord Chancellor. Although Brougham’s political activities were an important and visible part of his life, he was more than a mere politician. He participated in the anti-slavery movement, helped found the Edinburgh Review, served as legal advisor to Princess Caroline and her daughter Princess Charlotte and vigorously supported law reform. Moreover, he was a tireless advocate of the education movement and, at least early in his career, a devoted student of the increasingly important subject of political economy.