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Lord Curzon of Kedleston: The Imperial Statesman David Gilmour

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Curzon: Imperial Statesman

by David Gilmour

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Lord Curzon was one of the most influential figures in the history of British India. He served as Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905, and during his tenure he oversaw a number of significant changes, including the partition of Bengal. He was also a leading advocate of imperial federation, and he played a key role in the establishment of the League of Nations.

Early Life and Education

George Nathaniel Curzon was born on January 11, 1859, in Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire, England. His father, the 4th Baron Scarsdale, was a wealthy landowner and politician. His mother, Blanche, was the daughter of the 2nd Earl of Leicester.

Curzon was a brilliant student. He attended Eton College and Oxford University, where he studied history and classics. After graduating from Oxford, Curzon traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia. He was particularly interested in the history and culture of the British Empire.

Early Career

In 1885, Curzon was elected to the House of Commons. He quickly became a rising star in the Conservative Party. He served as Under-Secretary of State for India from 1891 to 1892. In 1895, he was appointed Viceroy of India.

Viceroy of India

As Viceroy of India, Curzon oversaw a number of significant changes. He reformed the Indian army, introduced a new system of taxation, and established a new university in Calcutta. He also played a key role in the partition of Bengal, a controversial move that divided the province into two separate regions.

Curzon's tenure as Viceroy was marked by both controversy and achievement. He was a strong advocate of imperial federation, and he believed that India should play a greater role in the British Empire. He was also a firm believer in the superiority of British culture and values.

Later Career

After leaving India, Curzon served as Foreign Secretary from 1919 to 1924. He was also a member of the House of Lords. He died in London on March 20, 1925.

Legacy

Lord Curzon was a complex and controversial figure. He was a brilliant administrator and a strong advocate for the British Empire. However, he was also a firm believer in the superiority of British culture and values. His legacy is still debated today.

Curzon left behind a number of important works, including his three-volume history of India, "British Rule in India" (1899). He also wrote a number of books on travel, history, and politics.

Lord Curzon was a major figure in the history of British India. His legacy is still debated today, but there is no doubt that he was a significant figure in the history of the British Empire.

Curzon: Imperial Statesman

by David Gilmour

4.3 out of 5