Pitt The Younger, 1759-1806

by Robin Reilly

. 1979 1st US ed, bright clean copy, with dustjacket, G Putnam, Professional booksellers since 1981

Genres: History

390 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1978

Reviews

[Czarny Pies · Rating 4 out of 5]

This excellent biography first published in 1978 has aged very well. Despite having been highly impressed by William Hague's biography of Wilberforce, I decided to read Reilly's work on Pitt rather than Hague's simply to get a different perspective on the era. However, good Hague's book on Pitt may be, I am highly satisfied with my decision. Reilly has an engaging writing style, renders complex events into simple terms and demonstrates great analytical acumen at every turn.

Reilly is also his own greatest critic. He states up front that he has written a short biography. Although he has consulted the relevant archives, Reilly makes it clear that he has drawn extensively on secondary sources. He also points out that Pitt's literary executor destroyed the bulk of his private papers. Thus many aspects of Pitt's private life will always remain a quite mystery. The biggest question that will be never be answered is whether or not the confirmed bachelor Pitt was ever at any point a practicing homosexual. The issue is largely irrelevant of course given Pitt's remarkable achievements in his over 20 years of prime minister of England.

Reilly attributes Pitt's remarkable longevity as prime minister to his integrity and moderation. He was rigorously honest in financial matters and never devious in his efforts to implement his agenda. Pitt believed that politics was the art of the possible. He favoured Catholic emancipation, the abolition of slavery, the suppression of the rotten boroughs and the inclusion of Irish members in the Westminster parliament. However, he abandoned efforts in all these areas once he determined how strong the opposition was.

As a Sandhurst graduate Reilly pokes fun at Pitt on several occasions for his poor understanding of military matters. However, he praises Pitt for his strong financial management that ensured that the British navy and army were adequately funded during his tenure. Similarly, he founded Pitt ethical and highly professional in diplomatic matters.

[Michal Paszkiewicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent study of William Pitt the younger's life and works. The man was truly incredible in his achievements and struggles.

[Mary Sasala · Rating 3 out of 5]

I learned so much in this book but it was quite boring.

[Rob Markley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worthwhile biography of Pitt and comes close but ultimately doesn't fully capture the man