| Name: |
Edmund Burke |
| Birth Date: |
|
| Death Date: |
|
| Place of Birth: |
|
| Nationality: |
|
| Gender: |
|
| Occupations: |
|
The British statesman Edmund Burke (1729-1797) was a noted political theorist and philosophical writer. He was born in Ireland, spent most of his active life in English politics, and died the political oracle of conservative Europe.
Edmund Burke's view of society was hierarchical and authoritarian, yet one of his noblest characteristics was his repeated defense of those who were too weak to defend themselves. Outstanding in 18th-century British politics for intellect, oratory, and drive, he lacked the ability either to lead or to conciliate men and never exerted an influence commensurate with his capabilities. His career as a practical politician was a failure; his political theories found favor only with posterity.
Burke was born on Jan. 12, 1729, in Dublin of middleclass parents. His mother suffered from what Burke called "a cruel nervous disorder," and his relations with his authoritarian father, a Dublin attorney, were unhappy. After attending Trinity College, Dublin, Burke in 1750 crossed to England to study law at the Middle Temple.
This page contains 151 words.
Edmund Burke biography
Read the rest of this biography.
This biography contains 1,837 words
(approx. 6 pages at 300 words per page).
Order our Edmund Burke Biography
