Acton, John Emerich Edward Dalberg Acton, Baron

About the author

John Emerich Edward Dalberg Acton, Baron Acton (1834–1902), commonly known as Lord Acton, was an eminent British historian, writer, and moral philosopher renowned for his profound insights on liberty and power. He is best remembered for his famous observation, “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” which remains a cornerstone of political thought.

Lord Acton dedicated his life to exploring the intersections of history, morality, and politics. His essays and lectures delve deeply into the concepts of freedom, the ethics of governance, and the responsibility of individuals in positions of authority. As the first Regius Professor of Modern History at the University of Cambridge, he emphasized rigorous research and intellectual honesty, inspiring generations of historians.

Acton’s legacy as a thinker and advocate for liberty endures, making his works essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of power and its impact on society.