Born: 18 April 1772 · Died: 11 September 1823 · Age: 51
Influential British economist who developed the theory of comparative advantage
Did you know?He made a vast personal fortune as a stockbroker and loan contractor before turning his focus to economic theory.
Quick facts
Date of birth18 April 1772
Date of death11 September 1823
Age at death51
NationalityBritish
BirthplaceLondon, United Kingdom
Occupationeconomist, stockbroker, philosopher
Editor's Take:
David Ricardo became rich on the stock market and then devoted himself to explaining how economies work. His idea of comparative advantage shows that countries gain from trade even when one is better at everything. It is still one of the most powerful ideas in economics. He also built theories of rent, wages and value that influenced Marx. He argued against the Corn Laws that protected landowners. He died at 51.
Key Milestones
1799: Reads Adam Smith and turns to economics
1810: Publishes The High Price of Bullion
1817: Publishes his Principles
1819: Enters Parliament
David Ricardo (18 April 1772 – 11 September 1823) was a British economist and politician. He is recognized as one of the most influential classical economists, alongside figures such as Thomas Malthus, Adam Smith and James Mill.
