author
Alfred Farthing Robbins
1856–1931
A Victorian-era journalist and political biographer, he turned a sharp reporter’s eye toward public life, Liberal politics, and the history of his native Cornwall. He was also a prominent Freemason whose public career brought him a knighthood.
1 Audiobook
Practical Politics; or, the Liberalism of To-day
by Alfred Farthing Robbins
About the author
Born in Launceston, Cornwall, on August 1, 1856, Alfred Farthing Robbins built his career in journalism before becoming known as an author of political biography and commentary. Early in life he contributed to local newspapers, and he later wrote on British public affairs, including books on Liberal politics and leading political figures.
Robbins is especially associated with political and historical writing. His works include Practical Politics; or, the Liberalism of To-day and biographies connected with major statesmen such as William Ewart Gladstone. He also wrote about his home town in Launceston, Past and Present, showing a lasting interest in local history as well as national politics.
Beyond his writing, Robbins was a well-known Freemason and held senior roles in Masonic life. He was knighted, and he remained active in public and literary circles until his death on March 9, 1931.