Chancellor William Ewart Gladstone inspection tour of the Underground line

William Ewart Gladstone (1809–1898) was a British statesman and prime minister, serving four terms between 1868 and 1894. Born in Liverpool, England, he came from a wealthy family and was educated at Eton and Oxford. Gladstone started his political career as a member of the Conservative Party but later became a leader of the Liberal Party, where he championed reforms, including expanding suffrage, promoting free trade, and advocating for social and political progress.

Gladstone was known for his eloquent speeches and his commitment to individual liberties and constitutional government. His policies on Ireland, especially his attempts to address Irish Home Rule, were significant aspects of his political career, although they were deeply divisive. He believed in government transparency and was an advocate for fiscal responsibility and reform in the British Empire.

During his time in office, Gladstone oversaw numerous reforms, such as the Education Act of 1870, which laid the foundation for state involvement in education, and the extension of voting rights. His later years saw him focus on Irish independence, leading to his support for the Irish Home Rule movement, which ultimately led to significant political debates in Britain.

Gladstone's legacy is complex, with his liberal reforms shaping British politics but also facing criticism, particularly over his handling of Ireland. He is remembered as one of the most important British politicians of the 19th century.