Lord Acton

Lord Acton (1834 - 1902)

Lord John Dallberg-Acton was born on this date in 1834.  He was an important historian and classical liberal. His most famous statement is most likely "Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely." During his life he paid close attention to the development of the United States with great interest and was saddened by the decline of federalism and states rights.

A good quick digest of Acton on liberty and government has been prepared by Gary Galles. His lecture on the American Revolution given at the turn of the 20th Century can be read here. To those who are looking for a larger helping, I recommend his Lectures on Modern History.