The Life of William Ewart Gladstone, Vol. 3 (of 3): 1890-1898

"The Life of William Ewart Gladstone, Vol. 3 (of 3)" by John Morley is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume continues the examination of the life of William Ewart Gladstone, a prominent British statesman and four-time Prime Minister, focusing on his political career during the years 1880 to 1898. The book delves into Gladstone’s challenges and responses within the political landscape of the time, illuminating his approaches to governance, social issues, and foreign policy. The opening of the volume reveals the significant context in which Gladstone resumed his role in the House of Commons after a lengthy public career. It describes the dynamics of the new parliament, the independence and challenges posed by members on both sides, including figures like Lord Randolph Churchill and Mr. Parnell. This section highlights Gladstone’s initial experiences with the new government and the immediate political climate, including the complexity of maintaining cohesion within a coalition cabinet that represented a diverse array of political interests. The events foreshadow impending conflicts over issues such as Irish policy and governance, setting the tone for the tumultuous years ahead in both British and Irish politics.