Living History with the Countess of Derby

• Tribute: The Literary Legacy of the Fourteenth Earl of Derby

  Episode Description:In this final episode of Tribute, we explore two defining aspects of the 14th Earl of Derby’s life: his contributions to literature and his role in the abolition of slavery in the British colonies.A scholar, poet, and writer, Stanley’s extensive travels shaped both his worldview and his literary output. His encounters with different cultures and ideas influenced some of the great novels of his time, and his own writings—including poetry and translations—left a lasting mark. His travel journals, rich with firsthand observations on society and race, offer a unique historical lens into the 19th century.But perhaps the most profound impact of his journeys was his unwavering commitment to justice. Witnessing slavery firsthand strengthened his resolve to fight for abolition, leading to one of his greatest political achievements—the 1833 Abolition of Slavery Act in the British colonies.As we conclude our series, we ask: can the Forgotten Prime Minister finally take his place among history’s great leaders? Join us as we take this final step in rediscovering the remarkable life and legacy of the 14th Earl of Derby.Timestamps:00:00 Earl's Legacy: Humanity and Reform04:43 Stanley's Immersive Cultural Journey08:17 Influence of "Childe Harold's Pilgrimage11:38 Romantic Banishment and Reconciliation13:33 Dickens and Darby's Unexpected Connection16:55 Grueling Historic Travel Adventures21:23 Need for Politicians’ Global Outlook24:06 Stanley's 1812 Post-War Travel Diary26:25 Stanley's Perspective on Native Peoples30:20 Fun-Loving Spirit in Young Leader33:28 Birth of Antislavery Movements36:55 Slavery, Women's Exploitation, and Derby's Respect40:21 Slavery's Global Historical Impact42:55 British Travel Journals Condemn Slavery46:34 Exploring Race: Nature vs. Nurture49:56 Contentious Abolition and Compensation Debate54:26 Legacy of Flawed Historical Figures57:49 Edward Geoffrey Stanley: A Legacy Unveiled59:09 Team Credits and AcknowledgmentsAbout the Host:Caroline Derby, Countess of Derby is a historian, writer, and cultural ambassador dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of her family’s storied history. As a steward of Knowsley Hall, the ancestral seat of the Stanley family, she plays a key role in maintaining its rich heritage while championing contemporary initiatives in education, conservation, and the arts. With a deep passion for historical storytelling, Caroline brings a personal perspective to Tribute, exploring the life and influence of one of her most remarkable ancestors—the 14th Earl of Derby.About the Guests:Dr. Jeannie Grant Moore is a historian specialising in 19th-century British and Irish history, with a focus on politics, education, and national identity. Her work sheds light on the 14th Earl of Derby’s efforts to bridge religious and social divides through education reform.Dr. Lisa Francavilla is a historian specialising in 19th-century American and British history. She focuses on archival research, particularly travel journals, to uncover personal narratives that shaped political and cultural history. Her work explores how travel influenced political thought and social reform during this period.Dr. Stephen Lloyd is a historian, curator, and expert in British aristocratic collections. With extensive experience in managing and researching historical archives, he played a key role in uncovering the 14th Earl of Derby’s personal travel journals, shedding new light on his formative experiences in Italy and America.Professor Andrew O’Shaughnessy is a historian specialising in the British Atlantic world, with a focus on political...

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• Tribute: The Fourteenth Earl of Derby's Legacy in Politics and Society

  Episode Description:The 14th Earl of Derby was more than a statesman—he was a visionary who shaped both British horse racing and education reform. His passion for the turf wasn’t just about sport; it reflected his belief that merit mattered more than privilege, a philosophy that carried into his political life.This episode explores how his love of racing broke down class barriers and how his 1831 Education Act for Ireland sought to bridge religious divides through learning. His travels abroad reinforced his commitment to social mobility and reform, but his efforts, particularly in Ireland, sparked controversy.From the racetrack to the classroom, the Earl’s legacy is one of progress and paradox. Join us as we continue to uncover the life of a leader who saw reform as the key to preservation.Timestamps:00:00 "Exploring the Fourteenth Earl's Legacy"05:27 Racing Enthusiasm and Struggles07:49 Derby's Passion for Horse Racing13:21 Legacy of the Racing Earl14:45 Successful Racehorse Owner's Achievements18:51 "Education: Key to Social Mobility"23:43 Irish Immigration to Harsh Canada26:50 British Economist on Irish Famine29:47 Stanley's Educational Reforms for Harmony32:27 Visionary Leadership and Religious Change34:39 Exploring the Fourteenth Earl's LegacyAbout the Host:Caroline Derby, Countess of Derby is a historian, writer, and cultural ambassador dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of her family’s storied history. As a steward of Knowsley Hall, the ancestral seat of the Stanley family, she plays a key role in maintaining its rich heritage while championing contemporary initiatives in education, conservation, and the arts. With a deep passion for historical storytelling, Caroline brings a personal perspective to Tribute, exploring the life and influence of one of her most remarkable ancestors—the 14th Earl of Derby.About the Guests:Alexandra Mayson is a historian and expert on British horse racing, with a particular focus on its social and political impact in the 19th century. She has extensively researched how figures like the 14th Earl of Derby transformed the sport, breaking down class barriers and shaping its modern legacy. Her work highlights the Earl’s philosophy that "all men were equal—above the turf and under it" and how this egalitarian outlook extended beyond racing into his political life.Dr. Stephen Lloyd is a historian, curator, and expert in British aristocratic collections. With extensive experience in managing and researching historical archives, he played a key role in uncovering the 14th Earl of Derby’s personal travel journals, shedding new light on his formative experiences in Italy and America.Professor Andrew O’Shaughnessy is a historian specialising in the British Atlantic world, with a focus on political thought and transatlantic relationships. His expertise in 18th and 19th-century political philosophy provides crucial insight into how the Earl’s encounters with thinkers like Edmund Burke influenced his approach to governance.Dr. Jeannie Grant Moore is a historian specialising in 19th-century British and Irish history, with a focus on politics, education, and national identity. Her work sheds light on the 14th Earl of Derby’s efforts to bridge religious and social divides through education reform.Patrice Dallaire is a historian of British colonial policy in North America, examining its political and social impact. His expertise provides key insights into how the 14th Earl of Derby’s policies shaped Canada’s relationship with the British Crown.About the 14th Earl of Derby:Edward Smith-Stanley, 14th Earl of Derby (1799–1869) was a British...

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• Tribute: The Life and Legacy of the Fourteenth Earl of Derby

  Episode Description:In the heart of Parliament Square, among statues of history’s most celebrated figures, stands a tribute to a man largely overlooked today—Edward Smith-Stanley, the 14th Earl of Derby. Known as The Forgotten Prime Minister, he was Britain’s longest-serving Conservative leader, a political reformer, and a champion of social progress.In this debut episode of Tribute, host Caroline Derby unpacks the Earl’s early life and the experiences that shaped his vision for change. With insights from historian Dr. Stephen Lloyd, we explore newly discovered travel journals that reveal his formative journeys through Italy and America. Professor Andrew O’Shaughnessy introduces us to the philosophical influences that molded his political ideology, while Dr. Geoff Hicks delves into his landmark achievements—most notably the Jewish Relief Act and the Second Reform Act of 1867, which transformed British democracy.Join us as we rediscover the legacy of a leader whose impact continues to shape modern Britain.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction 01:10 - The Earl's Many Definitions 02:34 - Personal Writings Unveiled10:26 - The Impact of Italy and America18:06 - Political Achievements 27:46 - Managed Change Strategy 34:14 - The Second Reform Act of 1867 About the Host:Caroline Derby, Countess of Derby is a historian, writer, and cultural ambassador dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of her family’s storied history. As a steward of Knowsley Hall, the ancestral seat of the Stanley family, she plays a key role in maintaining its rich heritage while championing contemporary initiatives in education, conservation, and the arts. With a deep passion for historical storytelling, Caroline brings a personal perspective to Tribute, exploring the life and influence of one of her most remarkable ancestors—the 14th Earl of Derby.About the Guests:Dr. Stephen Lloyd is a historian, curator, and expert in British aristocratic collections. With extensive experience in managing and researching historical archives, he played a key role in uncovering the 14th Earl of Derby’s personal travel journals, shedding new light on his formative experiences in Italy and America.Professor Andrew O’Shaughnessy is a historian specialising in the British Atlantic world, with a focus on political thought and transatlantic relationships. His expertise in 18th and 19th-century political philosophy provides crucial insight into how the Earl’s encounters with thinkers like Edmund Burke influenced his approach to governance.Dr. Geoff Hicks is a distinguished scholar of British political history, with a focus on 19th-century governance and conservative politics. His research into the 14th Earl’s leadership, particularly his role in passing the Jewish Relief Act and the Second Reform Act of 1867, highlights the Earl’s enduring impact on British democracy.About the Fourteenth Earl of Derby:Edward Smith-Stanley, 14th Earl of Derby (1799–1869) was a British statesman and the longest-serving leader of the Conservative Party. Often referred to as The Forgotten Prime Minister, he held the office three times and played a pivotal role in shaping 19th-century Britain.A reform-minded conservative, the Earl championed policies that balanced tradition with social progress.Beyond politics, he was a scholar, a traveler, and a patron of the arts and sciences, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond his time in office.About Knowsley Hall:Knowsley Hall, the ancestral home of the Stanley family for over 600 years, is one of England’s most historic estates. Located in Merseyside, it has been a center of political, social, and...

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• Tribute: The Fourteenth Earl of Derby

  Benjamin Disraeli once said of the 14th Earl of Derby that his legacy would be that he educated Ireland, abolished slavery, and reformed Parliament. Yet today, he is known as the forgotten Prime Minister.Welcome to Tribute, a podcast dedicated to honouring history’s most impactful yet overlooked figures. In our debut season, we explore the life and legacy of the 14th Earl of Derby - a statesman and visionary whose influence still resonates today.But who was the man behind the legacy? And how did his leadership shape both his era and our world today?Join us as we uncover the untold story of one of Britain’s most influential yet forgotten leaders.About the Host:Caroline Derby, Countess of Derby is a historian, writer, and cultural ambassador dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of her family’s storied history. As a steward of Knowsley Hall, the ancestral seat of the Stanley family, she plays a key role in maintaining its rich heritage while championing contemporary initiatives in education, conservation, and the arts. With a deep passion for historical storytelling, Caroline brings a personal perspective to Tribute, exploring the life and influence of one of her most remarkable ancestors—the 14th Earl of Derby.About the 14th Earl of Derby:Edward Smith-Stanley, 14th Earl of Derby (1799–1869) was a British statesman and the longest-serving leader of the Conservative Party. Often referred to as The Forgotten Prime Minister, he held the office three times and played a pivotal role in shaping 19th-century Britain.A reform-minded conservative, the Earl championed policies that balanced tradition with social progress.Beyond politics, he was a scholar, a traveler, and a patron of the arts and sciences, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond his time in office.About Knowsley Hall:Knowsley Hall, the ancestral home of the Stanley family for over 600 years, is one of England’s most historic estates. Located in Merseyside, it has been a center of political, social, and cultural influence for centuries. The Hall has hosted royalty, dignitaries, and some of the greatest thinkers of their time.The estate is also home to Knowsley Safari Park, a renowned conservation and wildlife attraction established by the Derby family. Today, Knowsley Hall remains a hub of heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while continuing to support education and community initiatives.Resources:To learn more, visit Knowsley Hall’s official website.For more about the Countess of Derby’s work and projects, visit her official website.Produced by OneFinePlay

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• Welcome to Living History with The Countess of Derby

  Episode Description:Welcome to “Living History with the Countess of Derby,” where I, the Countess of Derby, take you on a journey through some of the most captivating moments in British and American history.This podcast delves into the stories behind some of the most influential figures, events, and places that have shaped our world. From the Victorian era’s most significant politicians and their ties to my family, the Derbys, to Knowsley Hall’s unique association with William Shakespeare and the origins of the Epsom Derby, we explore the rich tapestry of history that continues to influence us today.In future episodes, we’ll dive into the complexities of 19th-century America, the Revolutionary War’s key moments, and the life of my ancestor, General Charles Cornwallis, including his role in the surrender at Yorktown in 1781. We’ll also explore more of the 14th Earl of Derby’s travels and the unique historical insights they provide.About Knowsley Hall:Knowsley Hall began life as a medieval hunting lodge in the 12th century, but the earliest part of today’s building dates from about 1500. The hall has been progressively added to over the years and now is a structure boasting a Georgian façade and Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors. The house was significantly rebuilt in the early 18th century by the 10th Earl, and was enlarged again by the Victorian Earls of Derby. Knowsley Hall has over 100 rooms, 20 bedrooms, and two libraries. The State Dining Room, with its 50ft-high ceiling, can seat 50 people at one long table. The parkland alone stretches to 2,500 acres, within of the 12,000 acre estate in Northern England. Shakespeare’s first company of actors – Lord Strange’s Men - performed in the hall under the patronage of the, the 5th Earl. The performance-loving 6th Earl continued the family’s patronage of Shakespeare; ’A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was probably first performed at his wedding to Elizabeth de Vere in front of Queen Elizabeth I at Greenwich Palace. Edward Lear, who popularised the limerick poetic form, wrote his nonsense poems in the hall for the grandchildren of the 12th Earl. Today the hall is home to the 19th Earl and Countess of Derby and their family. Under Lord & Lady Derby’s custodianship, Knowsley has enjoyed a renaissance as a centre of learning & community, welcoming people from across the globe.About the Host:The Countess of Derby was born Caroline Emma Neville in 1963, the daughter of Robin Neville, 10th Baron Braybrooke, of the House of Neville, and Robin Helen Brockhoff. Having studied History of Art, Lady Derby previously worked as assistant to the Curator of the Queen’s Pictures, at Windsor Castle. In 1994 she married Edward Stanley, the 19th Earl of Derby, with whom she has three children. Lady Derby competes in dressage, currently holding the title of National Music Champion at Prix St Georges level. As custodian of Knowsley Hall, Lady Derby has overseen a vast restoration of both the hall and it’s collection, which has furthered her interest in art and history. Lady Derby also works with a collection of local organisations and charities in her local area.Resources:Book your private stay today: https://knowsley.com/privatestays/Order your copy of A Grand Tour journal 1820-22; The Awakening of the Man, edited by Professor Angus Hawkins. Published by Fontill Media. Now available on Amazon.com (http://amazon.com/)Step inside Britain's greatest Historic Houses, gardens and family homes through HeritgeXplore, your digital gateway to discovering heritage today. Visit https://www.heritagexplore.com/Produced by https://www.onefineplay.com/

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