Tony Benn (1925–2014,) born Anthony Neil Wedgwood Benn, was a British politician, writer, and diarist known for his dedication to democratic socialism. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for over 50 years, advocating workers’ rights, public ownership, and constitutional reform.
Born in London, he attended Westminster School and studied philosophy, politics, and economics at New College-Oxford, graduating in 1948. After serving in the Royal Air Force during World War II, he entered politics, winning a seat as MP for Bristol South East (1950.) Titled Viscount Stansgate after his father’s death (1960,) he successfully campaigned to renounce his peerage (1963,) remaining in the House of Commons. He held key roles, including Postmaster General (1964–66) and Secretary of State for Industry (1974–75,) championing industrial democracy.
A prolific writer, Benn published books and diaries documenting his political career and beliefs. His works include Arguments for Socialism (1979,) Free at Last! (1991,) The Benn Diaries (1995,) Letters to My Grandchildren (2010,) and A Blaze of Autumn Sunshine: The Last Diaries (2013.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Tony Benn
A faith is something you die for, a doctrine is something you kill for. There is all the difference in the world.
—Tony Benn
Topics: Principles
Most things in life are moments of pleasure and a lifetime of embarrassment; photography is a moment of embarrassment and a lifetime of pleasure.
—Tony Benn
Topics: Photography, Pleasure
It’s the same each time with progress. First they ignore you, then they say you’re mad, then dangerous, then there’s a pause and then you can’t find anyone who disagrees with you.
—Tony Benn
Topics: Progress
All war represents a failure of diplomacy.
—Tony Benn
Topics: War, Diplomacy
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