Politics · Literature · 1809–1898
Born: 29 December 1809 · Died: 19 May 1898 · Age at death: 88
William Ewart Gladstone died aged 88. He was born on 29 December 1809 and died on 19 May 1898.
Victorian statesman who served as British Prime Minister four times
Did you know?He was a keen classicist who wrote extensive studies on ancient Greek literature and the works of Homer.
William Gladstone dominated Victorian politics for half a century. He began as a Conservative and ended as a reforming Liberal. He believed government should be moral, thrifty and answerable to the people. He widened the vote and reformed education. He also disestablished the Church of Ireland. His long struggle for Irish Home Rule split his party and failed in his lifetime. His rivalry with Disraeli became legendary. Admirers called him the Grand Old Man, while Queen Victoria disliked him intensely.
William Ewart Gladstone ( YOO-ərt GLAD-stən; 29 December 1809 – 19 May 1898) was a four-time prime minister of the United Kingdom. He began in politics as a Conservative Member of Parliament (MP) for Newark and ended as the face of the Liberal Party.
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Profile
British prime minister, born 1809
William Ewart Gladstone was born in Liverpool on 29 December 1809.
He was Prime Minister four times.
He led the Liberal Party for decades.
He fought for Irish Home Rule.
Career highlights
Did you know?He was the oldest person ever to become British Prime Minister.
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