Lord Acton

Lord Acton, whose birth name was John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton, was a highly esteemed British historian. He was born on January 10, 1834, in Naples, Italy, into an influential family, and was exposed to various cultures and languages from a young age. He studied at the University of Munich before attending the University of Edinburgh, and eventually earned his degree from the University of Oxford. Known for his extensive knowledge of European history and politics, Acton served as a professor of modern history at the University of Cambridge. He also founded The English Historical Review, a distinguished scholarly publication that continues to thrive today. His most notable work, the nine-volume “Cambridge Modern History,” remains a testament to his comprehensive understanding of history. Acton is often remembered for his famous quote: “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” reflecting his belief in the importance of holding leaders accountable. Lord Acton passed away on June 19, 1902, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of Britain’s most influential and respected historians.