"Burke" by John Morley is an informative biography that takes readers on a riveting trip through Edmund Burke's life and intellectual contributions as an important 18th-century Irish philosopher and statesman. Morley presents a vivid image of Burke's life, revealing insights into his profound thoughts and lasting impact on political thought through rigorous research and lyrical prose. Morley delves into Burke's childhood in Ireland, his prominent role in British politics, and his development of key philosophical notions across the pages of "Burke." Burke's ideas on conservatism, critical critiques of the French Revolution, and focus on the necessity of tradition, order, and gradual reform in society are all thoroughly discussed. Morley's biography honors Burke's wisdom while also demonstrating his own literary and scholarly ability. "Burke" is an essential resource for anybody interested in the Enlightenment era and Edmund Burke's enormous influence on the growth of conservative political thinking. It demonstrates the lasting importance of Burke's ideas as well as the enduring worth of Morley's investigation of his life and legacy.
John Morley, 1st Viscount Morley of Blackburn (1838-1923), was a prominent British Liberal statesman, writer, and newspaper editor. Born in Blackburn, Lancashire, Morley began his career as a journalist and editor, working for the Pall Mall Gazette. He entered politics as a Member of Parliament for the Liberal Party in 1883. Throughout his political career, Morley held several important positions, including Chief Secretary for Ireland, Secretary of State for India, and Lord President of the Council. In his later years, Morley played a significant role in the passage of the Parliament Act 1911, which curtailed the powers of the House of Lords. However, he resigned from the Liberal cabinet in 1914 due to his opposition to British entry into World War I as an ally of Russia. In his memoirs, titled "Recollections," Morley expressed his thoughts on old and new liberalism, criticizing the policies of the Liberal Party in power at the time. At the age of 84, Lord Morley passed away from heart failure at his house in Flowermead, Wimbledon Park, south London, on September 23, 1923, the day the viscountcy was abolished. His remains were interred in Putney Vale Cemetery after being cremated at Golders Green Crematorium.
