THE LATE CHARLES BRADLAUGH.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2160, 7 February 1891, Page 4

THE LATE CHARLES BRADLAUGH.

The Preß9 gives the following particulars regarding the late Mr Bradlaugh, whose dea'h w»s reported in our*C'«blfgrstms : Charles Bradlaugh, M.P., the son of Mr Charles Bradlaugh, solicitor's c'erk, was boro in the East End of London, September 28th, 1833. He was educated at eln»'t.t*ry schools in Eethnal Green and Hackney ?oid, and afterwards became successively errand boy, coal dealer, Bunday school teacher, and a freethoughc lecturer. In December, 1850, he enlisted in the 7Lh Dragoon Guards, and served for som'- time in Ireland. He became Orderly-rooui clerk, got his discharge, aad in 1853 returned to. London, becoming clerk to a Mr Rogers, a soltmtor. Haying bpoeme confirmed in his seeuluriat views, he began to write and lecture regularly, adopting the pseudonym of "Icoooclast." He leotured at the Hall of Science, City road ; wrote abundantly, and io a few years was Well known throughout the country for hia diecusemons with the clergy and others on publics platforms. In 1868 be, began his efforts to enter Pirlia'irienr., »nd after three tmes contesting Northampton in vain, wns returned for tb.Bt borough in 1880, his oolleague being Mr Labouohere. Meantime, in 1868 9, he fought a great bitUe in the Law Courts against the Attorney-Genaral (who was prosecuting the Nat ional Eef ormer), which resulted in complete victory for himself. He also took aeonsidertble part during the winter of 1870 in getting np expressions of sympathy for France ; and be travelled in Spain and in America, laoturing in seyeral cities and being well received. Since his entering Parliament his name has chiefly been heard in connection with the long, arduous, and unfortunate struggle with regard to his right to take or dispense with the oath of allegiance. Since this point was gained after a prolonged struggle' he has taken a prominent part in debate, and has signalised himself by successfully moving for the establishment of a Labor Bureau. He was the leader of the secularists, and, with Mrs Annie Besiint, professed what are called Maltbusian opinions on the population question. Prosecuted in 1876 for the publication of an old hook by a Dr. Knowlton, Mr Bradlaugh and Mrs Besant were sentenced to six.months' imprisonment and a £3OO fine, but, the Court of Appeal quashed the conviction. Mr Bradlaugh also headed the agitation against perpetual pensions.