This is an interactive educational resource based on the Wikipedia article about Benjamin Disraeli. Read the full source article here. (opens in new tab)

Disraeli: The Architect of Victorian Statesmanship

An exploration of Benjamin Disraeli's transformative career, covering his early life, parliamentary journey, premierships, domestic and foreign policies, and lasting legacy in British politics.

Overview ๐Ÿ‘‡ His Terms ๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!


When you are ready...
๐ŸŽฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ŸŽฎ
The Right Honourable
The Earl of Beaconsfield
KG PC DL JP FRS
๐Ÿ‘ค
Portrait of Benjamin Disraeli, 1878
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
In office
20 February 1874 โ€“ 21 April 1880
Monarch Victoria
Preceded by William Ewart Gladstone
Succeeded by William Ewart Gladstone
In office
27 February 1868 โ€“ 1 December 1868
Monarch Victoria
Preceded by The Earl of Derby
Succeeded by William Ewart Gladstone
Leader of the Opposition
In office
21 April 1880 โ€“ 19 April 1881
Monarch Victoria
Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone
Preceded by Marquess of Hartington
Succeeded by The Marquess of Salisbury
Chancellor of the Exchequer
In office
6 July 1866 โ€“ 29 February 1868
Prime Minister The Earl of Derby
Preceded by William Ewart Gladstone
Succeeded by George Ward Hunt
In office
26 February 1858 โ€“ 11 June 1859
Prime Minister The Earl of Derby
Preceded by Sir George Cornewall Lewis
Succeeded by William Ewart Gladstone
In office
27 February 1852 โ€“ 17 December 1852
Prime Minister The Earl of Derby
Preceded by Sir Charles Wood, 3rd Baronet
Succeeded by William Ewart Gladstone
Personal Details
Born
Benjamin D'Israeli
(1804-12-21)21 December 1804
Bloomsbury, Middlesex, England
Died 19 April 1881 (aged 76)
Mayfair, London, England
Political Party Conservative
Other Affiliations Young England (1840s)
Spouse
Mary Anne Evans
​ (m. 1839; died 1872)
Parents
  • Isaac D'Israeli
  • Maria Basevi
Signature โœ๏ธ
Writing Career
Notable Works
List
  • Vivian Grey
  • Popanilla
  • The Young Duke
  • Contarini Fleming
  • Ixion in Heaven
  • The Wondrous Tale of Alroy
  • The Rise of Iskander
  • The Infernal Marriage
  • Henrietta Temple
  • Venetia
  • Coningsby
  • Sybil
  • Tancred
  • Lothair
  • Endymion
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (1868; 1874โ€“1880)

Benjamin Disraeli, 1st Earl of Beaconsfield (21 December 1804 โ€“ 19 April 1881) was a preeminent British statesman, a distinguished Conservative politician, and a prolific author. He twice held the office of Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, profoundly shaping the modern Conservative Party by defining its policies and broadening its appeal. Disraeli's tenure was marked by his influential role in international affairs, his celebrated political rivalry with the Liberal leader William Ewart Gladstone, and his espousal of "one-nation conservatism" or "Tory democracy." He cemented the Conservatives' association with the British Empire and its expansionist policies, which resonated strongly with the electorate. Notably, he remains the only British prime minister to have been born Jewish.

Born in Bloomsbury, London, on 21 December 1804, Benjamin Disraeli was the second child of Isaac D'Israeli, a literary critic, and Maria Basevi. His family was of Sephardic Jewish mercantile background. Following a dispute with the synagogue, his father renounced Judaism, and Benjamin was baptized into the Church of England at the age of 12, a conversion that opened the door to a political career. Despite early setbacks and a period in legal articles, Disraeli's ambition led him to literature and then politics. His early parliamentary career was characterized by his sharp intellect and distinctive style, often clashing with established figures. He rose through the ranks, serving as Chancellor of the Exchequer and Leader of the House of Commons under Lord Derby, before ascending to the premiership.

A Statesman's Overview

Prime Ministerial Tenure

Disraeli served as Prime Minister twice: first for a brief period in 1868, and then more substantially from 1874 to 1880. His second term was particularly significant, marked by major legislative achievements and assertive foreign policy.

Literary Acumen

Throughout his political career, Disraeli was also a successful novelist. His works, such as Coningsby and Sybil, often explored political and social themes, offering insights into his evolving ideology and providing him with both income and public recognition.

Political Philosophy

A key architect of "one-nation conservatism," Disraeli advocated for social reforms aimed at bridging the gap between the aristocracy and the working classes. He believed in a paternalistic role for the state and the Conservative Party in improving the lives of the less fortunate.

Formative Years

Birth and Heritage

Born in Bloomsbury, London, on 21 December 1804, Benjamin Disraeli was the second child of Isaac D'Israeli, a literary critic, and Maria Basevi. His family was of Sephardic Jewish mercantile background. Following a dispute with the synagogue, his father renounced Judaism, and Benjamin was baptized into the Church of England at the age of 12, a conversion that opened the door to a political career.

Education and Early Career

Disraeli received a classical education, though he later expressed regret over not attending Winchester College. After a brief stint as an articled clerk to a solicitor, he pursued a literary career, publishing his first novel, Vivian Grey, in 1826. His early ventures into finance and journalism were marked by both success and significant financial difficulties.

Disraeli's early career was diverse and ambitious. He engaged in speculative stock market dealings, which led to substantial debt. His literary pursuits included several novels that explored aristocratic life and political themes. He also attempted to influence public opinion through pamphlets and journalism, notably with the newspaper The Representative, though these ventures often proved financially precarious and controversial.

Entry into Parliament

Disraeli's political aspirations solidified in the 1830s. After several unsuccessful attempts, he entered the House of Commons in 1837 as a Conservative MP for Maidstone. His maiden speech was met with hostility, but he persevered, gradually establishing himself as a formidable debater and a key figure within the party.

Navigating Parliament

Opposition and Leadership

Disraeli's parliamentary career was defined by his sharp critiques of opponents, particularly William Ewart Gladstone. He played a crucial role in the Conservative Party's realignment after the repeal of the Corn Laws, becoming a leading voice for the protectionist faction and eventually the party's leader in the Commons.

The Reform Act of 1867

A pivotal moment in Disraeli's career was his skillful management of the Reform Act 1867. By introducing a progressive reform bill, he outmaneuvered the Liberals and secured the passage of legislation that significantly expanded the franchise, demonstrating his mastery of parliamentary strategy.

The Reform Act of 1867 dramatically altered the British political landscape. It extended suffrage to a significant portion of the urban working class by granting the vote to male householders and lodgers meeting certain rental qualifications. The act also redistributed parliamentary seats, abolishing many small "rotten boroughs" and granting representation to newly industrialized towns.

Political Evolution

Disraeli's political stance evolved over time, moving from radical sympathies to a more defined Tory position. His concept of "Tory democracy" emphasized the importance of social reform and the role of the aristocracy in protecting the interests of the working classes, a philosophy that guided his party's direction.

Ascent to Premiership

First Term (1868)

Disraeli's first premiership was brief, lasting from February to December 1868. He succeeded Lord Derby and faced immediate challenges, notably the debate over the disestablishment of the Church of Ireland. Despite passing several minor reforms, his government was short-lived, ending with a Liberal victory in the general election.

Second Term (1874-1880)

His second term, from 1874 to 1880, was far more impactful. Garnering a significant majority in the 1874 general election, Disraeli's government enacted substantial domestic reforms and pursued an assertive foreign policy, solidifying Britain's imperial standing.

Disraeli's second government prioritized social welfare, enacting legislation to improve public health and housing. Acts like the Artisans' and Labourers' Dwellings Improvement Act provided funding for working-class housing, reflecting his "one-nation" philosophy. Key legislation enhanced worker rights and safety, such as the Employers and Workmen Act and the Conspiracy, and Protection of Property Act, which legalized peaceful picketing.

Relationship with Victoria

Disraeli cultivated a close and effective relationship with Queen Victoria, earning her trust and admiration. His respectful and attentive approach, coupled with his political successes, led to his ennoblement as Earl of Beaconsfield in 1876, a testament to his elevated status in the Victorian era.

Domestic Policy Initiatives

Social Reforms

Disraeli's government prioritized social welfare, enacting legislation to improve public health and housing. Acts like the Artisans' and Labourers' Dwellings Improvement Act provided funding for working-class housing, reflecting his "one-nation" philosophy.

Worker Protections

Key legislation enhanced worker rights and safety. The Employers and Workmen Act placed employers and employees on a more equal legal footing, while the Conspiracy, and Protection of Property Act legalized peaceful picketing, supporting trade union activities.

Consumer Protection

The Sale of Food and Drugs Act 1875 aimed to ensure the quality and safety of consumer goods, prohibiting adulteration and establishing standards for food and drugs, demonstrating a commitment to public well-being.

Imperial Ambitions & Foreign Policy

The Suez Canal

A defining moment of Disraeli's premiership was the strategic purchase of Khedive Ismail Pasha's shares in the Suez Canal in 1875. This bold move secured Britain's vital trade route to India and underscored his commitment to expanding and protecting the British Empire.

The Congress of Berlin

Disraeli played a crucial role at the Congress of Berlin in 1878, skillfully negotiating peace in the Balkans following the Russo-Turkish War. His diplomatic efforts secured terms favorable to Britain, enhancing his reputation as a leading European statesman and earning him the moniker "Peace with Honour."

At the Congress of Berlin, Disraeli, alongside Lord Salisbury, worked to revise the Treaty of San Stefano, which had created a large, Russian-influenced Bulgaria. Disraeli's primary objective was to prevent Russian dominance in the region and maintain the integrity of the Ottoman Empire. The agreement secured British interests, including the acquisition of Cyprus, and was hailed as a major diplomatic triumph.

Imperial Conflicts

Disraeli's foreign policy also involved military engagements, notably the Second Anglo-Afghan War and the Anglo-Zulu War. While these conflicts aimed to secure British imperial interests, they also proved costly and controversial, contributing to a decline in public support.

Enduring Legacy

Shaping Modern Conservatism

Disraeli is credited with modernizing the Conservative Party, transforming it into a national force that embraced social reform and imperialism. His "one-nation" vision sought to unite disparate classes under a common banner of national identity and imperial purpose.

Oratorical Prowess

Renowned for his wit and eloquence, Disraeli was one of the most captivating speakers of his era. His speeches often blended political analysis with literary flair, influencing public opinion and parliamentary debate.

Literary Influence

His novels provided a unique lens through which to view Victorian society and politics. Works like Coningsby and Sybil explored themes of class, social reform, and national identity, influencing political discourse and literary circles.

The Author's Craft

Early Novels

Disraeli began his literary career in the 1820s with novels like Vivian Grey and The Young Duke. These works, often semi-autobiographical, explored aristocratic society and contained sharp social commentary, though they also led to controversy and financial strain.

Political Novels

Later novels, such as Coningsby (1844), Sybil (1845), and Tancred (1847), delved deeper into political and social issues. They articulated his vision for Tory democracy and the role of the aristocracy in addressing the "condition of England" question.

Disraeli's political novels championed ideas such as the alliance between the landed aristocracy and the working class, the importance of national institutions, and the need for social reform to mitigate the effects of industrialization. They offered a vision for a revitalized Conservatism.

Later Works

His later novels, including Lothair (1870) and Endymion (1880), continued to engage with contemporary political and social themes, reflecting his experiences and observations throughout his long career.

Study Aids

Flashcards

Engage with key terms and concepts related to Benjamin Disraeli's life and career through interactive flashcards. Test your knowledge and reinforce your understanding.

References

Explore the sources that informed this overview. Detailed citations are available to provide further context and support for the information presented.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio
Click here to open the "Benjamin Disraeli" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about benjamin_disraeli while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

                                        

References

References

  1.  After Meredith's death, Sarah Disraeli never married. She devoted the rest of her life to her family.[52]
  2.  Of the 26 Anglican bishops and archbishops who sat in the House of Lords, 23 voted on the measure and 17 were opposed.
  3.  Pierpoint, Robert. "Kingsway" Notes and Queries, 26 August 1916, p. 170
  4.  "The Elections", The Observer, 3 May 1835, p. 4
  5.  W.A. Speck, "Robert Southey, Benjamin Disraeli and Young England." History 95.318 (2010): 194โ€“206.
  6.  Maurice Cowling, 1867 Disraeli, Gladstone and Revolution: The Passing of the Second Reform Bill (Cambridge UP, 2005).
  7.  Conservative social and industrial reform: A record of Conservative legislation between 1800 and 1974 by Charles E, Bellairs, p. 16
  8.  Conservative social and industrial reform: A record of Conservative legislation between 1800 and 1974 by Charles E, Bellairs, p. 17
  9.  Conservative social and industrial reform: A record of Conservative legislation between 1800 and 1974 by Charles E, Bellairs, p. 18
  10.  Geoffrey Hicks, "Disraeli, Derby and the Suez Canal, 1875: some myths reassessed." History 97.326 (2012): 182โ€“203.
  11.  O'Kell, Robert. "Disraeli's Novels Reviewed, 1826รขย€ย“1968, by R. W. Stewart", Nineteenth-Century Fiction, June 1976, pp. 84รขย€ย“85
  12.  "Benjamin Disraeli 1804รขย€ย“1881", Nineteenth-Century Literary Criticism, eNotes, accessed 25 August 2013
  13.  Richard Shannon, The Age of Disraeli, 1868-1881: The Rise of Tory Democracy (1992) pp. 199โ€“210
  14.  Roland Quinault, "The Great Rivalry", History Today (November 2013) 63.11, p. 61
  15.  Andrzej Diniejko, "Benjamin Disraeli and the Jewish Question in Victorian England" The Victorian Web (2020) online
  16.  Todd M. Endelman, The Jews of Britain, 1656 to 2000 (University of California Press, 2002) p 6.
  17.  Michael Ragussis, Figures of Conversion. The "Jewish Question" and English National Identity (1995) p. 175.
  18.  See also Anthony S. Wohl, "'Ben JuJu': Representations of Disraeli's Jewishness in the Victorian political cartoon." Jewish history 10.2 (1996): 89รขย€ย“134
  19.  Michael Diamond, "Political Heroes of the Victorian Music Hall", History Today 40 (1990): 33รขย€ย“39
  20.  Steven Fielding, "British Politics and Cinema's Historical Dramas, 1929รขย€ย“1938", Historical Journal 56.2 (2013): 487รขย€ย“511, quotes on pp. 488 and 509รขย€ย“510
A full list of references for this article are available at the Benjamin Disraeli Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional political or historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation or in-depth academic research. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified historians or political scientists for specific analyses or interpretations.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.