Joseph Brotherton (1783–1857) was an English reformer, politician, and minister, best known as Salford’s first Member of Parliament (MP) and a pioneering vegetarian activist. His contributions to social reform, religious movements, and parliamentary advocacy shaped early Victorian progressivism.
Born in Whittington, Derbyshire, Brotherton moved to Salford, Lancashire, where his family established a cotton and silk mill. He became a partner in 1802 but retired in 1819 to focus on public service and religious work. As a minister in the Bible Christian Church, he promoted vegetarianism and temperance.
Elected Salford’s first MP in 1832, he championed education, workers’ rights, and parliamentary reform. He was part of the Little Circle, a Nonconformist Liberal group influencing Manchester’s political landscape.
His publications include Facts Authentic in Science and Religion (1816,) exploring scientific and religious perspectives, and Letters on Religious Subjects (1821,) discussing Christian teachings. His pamphlet On Abstinence from Intoxicating Liquors (1821) is considered Britain’s first teetotal statement.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Joseph Brotherton
My riches consist not in the extent of my possessions, but in the fewness of my wants.
—Joseph Brotherton
Topics: Riches, Attitude, Wealth
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