Bradlaugh, Charles, 1833-1891

Charles Bradlaugh was an active and controversial worker for social reform in England. Largely self-educated, he questioned theological, political, and social issues in countless pamphlets and speeches throughout England and the United States. Publicity and scandal followed him, perhaps most notably in the 1877 trial of Bradlaugh and Annie Besant for publishing Charles Knowlton's Fruits of Philosophy. He was elected to Parliament, but was disallowed from sitting in the house because of his stance on the oath of office. Bradlaugh's legacy goes beyond his championing such radical causes as women's equality, birth control, land reform, labor reform, compulsory education, and the alleviation of poverty; he remains a notable example of working through the system to effect positive change.

From the description of Charles Bradlaugh letters, clippings, and related materials, 1880-1935. (Pennsylvania State University Libraries). WorldCat record id: 61113061

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