Crozier, W. P. (William Percival), 1879-1944

Born in Stanhope, Durham in 1879 Crozier was educated at the Manchester Grammar School and subsequently won a scholarship to Trinity College, Oxford - commencing 1898.

After leaving university, Crozier worked as a teacher for a year, before a brief spell at the Times newspaper. At the end of September 1903 he began working for the Guardian. Crozier began work for the sub-editors where his diverse range of interests helped him excel. He was particularly praised for his work on the Russo-Japanese war. At the end of 1912 Crozier became news editor for the paper. He was also instrumental in ensuring the newspaper kept pace with the changing face of journalism - introducing the women's pages and increasing the use of photographs within the paper.

Crozier's responsibility on the Guardian increased with the outbreak of war in 1914. By 1921 he was made director of the company. In April 1932 Crozier replaced E T Scott as editor. At the Guardian Crozier built up a team of foreign writers while he was a deputy editor, but under his editorial position the foreign department of the newspaper grew in reputation. This was increasingly important as conflicts in Europe were slowly building to the second world war. He often wrote articles himself with a powerful and concise style.

Crozier was known for appearing cold and sceptical, but was extremely passionate about liberal politics. He reflected his views within the Guardian, promoting the League of Nations and attacking Hitler's anti-semitic policies before it was popular to do so. Towards the end of his twelve years in the editors chair, Crozier began to have persistent heart problems. He was advised to rest but did not. He wrote his last leading article on the 14th April 1944.

From the guide to the Papers of William Percival Crozier, 1903-1955, (Guardian News & Media Archive)