Tributes paid to statesman to mark landmark anniversary

John Bright, who was born in Rochdale before being educated in York, was one of the 19th century’s most respected British statesmen.

His association with Richard Cobden led to the launch of the Anti-Corn Law League, and he was one of the greatest orators of his generation. Bright was a strong critic of British foreign policy and sat in the House of Commons from 1843 to 1889.

Staff and students at Bootham School in York, where Bright studied, yesterday remembered his life and work to mark the 200th anniversary of his birth. The school’s library was named in Bright’s honour in 1911 to mark the centenary.

Headteacher Jonathan Taylor said: “He spoke out against corruption and self-interest in public life, and for the rights of the individual to enjoy a peaceful and productive existence. His was a life worthy of remembrance.”

In his time, Bright ranked alongside the likes of Gladstone, Disraeli and Peel. When President Abraham Lincoln was shot, a newspaper cutting of one of Bright’s speeches was found in the pocket of his waistcoat.

Bright is the only British statesman to have his statue still in place in the White House.

email [email protected]