Peel

Bobbies.

Peelers.

Nicknames given to the police based on the reform of one man: Robert Peel.

Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister of England, lived a fascinating life.

In this classic biography, first published in 1891, J. R. Thursfield explores not just the life of Peel but of the system that in turn celebrated and condemned him.

Peel was and remains a complicated historical figure.

He is famous for forming the Metropolitan Police and as one of the founders of the modern Conservative Party.

However, he was also opposed to Catholic Emancipation and was Prime Minister at the outbreak Great Famine in Ireland.

Peel had an excellent way with words, and this biography, by quoting from his many speeches, gives voice to a man now long gone.

Sir James Richard Thursfield (1840 – 1923) was the first editor of the Times Literary Supplement.Most of Thursfield’s historical work was dedicated to the Royal Navy. His son would go on to become Admiral in the navy his father had studied. In 1920 Thursfield was knighted in the New Year Honours List.