1st Earl of Mansfield Quotes
The 1st Earl of Mansfield, also known as William Murray, was a prominent British judge and politician in the 18th century. He is best known for his influential role in shaping British common law and his support for the abolition of slavery. As Lord Chief Justice of England, he presided over several…Read More
The 1st Earl of Mansfield, also known as William Murray, was a prominent British judge and politician in the 18th century. He is best known for his influential role in shaping British common law and his support for the abolition of slavery. As Lord Chief Justice of England, he presided over several landmark cases, including the famous Somersett case which declared slavery illegal in England. He also served as Lord President of the Council and Lord Chancellor, and was a key figure in the government during the American Revolution. His notable works include his legal opinions and speeches, which are still studied and referenced today. He is remembered as a progressive and influential figure in British history.Read Less
The 1st Earl of Mansfield, also known as William Murray, was a prominent British judge and politician in the 18th century. He is best known for his influential role in shaping British common law and his support for the abolition of slavery. As Lord Chief Justice of England, he presided over several landmark cases, including the famous Somersett case which declared slavery illegal in England. He also served as Lord President of the Council and Lord Chancellor, and was a key figure in the government during the American Revolution. His notable works include his legal opinions and speeches, which are still studied and referenced today. He is remembered as a progressive and influential figure in British history.
1st Earl of Mansfield Career Highlights
- In 1737, William Murray was appointed as Solicitor General for Scotland, and later became the Lord Advocate in 1754.
- In 1756, he was appointed as a judge in the Court of King’s Bench, and in 1757, he became the Chief Justice of the same court.
- In 1759, he was appointed as a Privy Councillor and was also made a peer, taking the title of Baron Mansfield.
- In 1776, he was elevated to the title of Earl of Mansfield, becoming the first Scottish-born judge to be made an earl.
- He served as Chief Justice of the Court of King’s Bench for 32 years, making him the longest-serving Chief Justice in British history.
Key Contributions by 1st Earl of Mansfield
- William Murray is best known for his contributions to the development of English common law. He was a strong advocate for the principle of stare decisis, which means to follow precedent and not overturn established legal decisions.
- He also played a crucial role in the landmark case of Somerset v Stewart in 1772, where he declared that slavery was not supported by English law. This decision was a significant step towards the abolition of slavery in the British Empire.
- Mansfield was also a key figure in the development of commercial law, particularly in the areas of insurance and bankruptcy. He was known for his expertise in these fields and his judgments helped to shape the modern legal system.
- He was a strong supporter of religious tolerance and was instrumental in the passing of the Catholic Relief Act of 1778, which granted certain rights to Catholics in Britain.
What Sets 1st Earl of Mansfield Apart
- William Murray was a highly respected and influential judge, known for his intelligence, fairness, and impartiality. He was often referred to as the “Father of English Law” and his judgments were highly regarded by his peers and the legal community.
- He was also known for his progressive views and his willingness to challenge traditional legal norms. His decision in the Somerset case, for example, was a bold move that went against the prevailing attitudes of the time.
- Despite facing criticism and opposition, Mansfield remained steadfast in his beliefs and principles, and his legacy continues to influence the legal system today.
Takeaways
- William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield, was a highly accomplished judge and politician who made significant contributions to the development of English common law.
- His commitment to the principles of fairness, impartiality, and religious tolerance set him apart from his contemporaries and earned him the respect and admiration of many.
- His legacy continues to be felt in the legal system, and his judgments and decisions have had a lasting impact on the development of modern law.
Other People
Lawyer
· Scotland
1871
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· England
1732
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· England
Lawyer
· England
