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Joseph Priestley / Fire

Joseph Priestley  /  Fire


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Joseph Priestley / Fire

JOSEPH PRIESTLEY Dr Priestleys house at Fairhill is ransacked and burnt by a Birmingham mob Date: 14 July 1791

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Media ID 14269108

© Mary Evans Picture Library

1791 Birmingham Burnt Priestley Ransacked


EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures the aftermath of the violent attack on the home of renowned scientist and theologian, Joseph Priestley, in Fairhill, Birmingham, on the fateful day of July 14, 1791. The scene before us is one of destruction and chaos, as the mob's rampage through Priestley's property leaves his house in ruins. The fire, which was reportedly set by the mob, consumes the once-proud dwelling, casting an ominous pall over the scene. Joseph Priestley (1733-1804) was a prominent figure in the intellectual circles of 18th-century Europe. A leading figure in the Enlightenment, he was known for his groundbreaking research in chemistry, particularly his discovery of oxygen. However, his radical religious and political views, which included his support for the French Revolution, made him a target for the growing anti-intellectual and anti-revolutionary sentiment in Birmingham. The events leading up to this destructive day began with a sermon given by a local Anglican clergyman, who denounced Priestley and his beliefs. This sermon sparked outrage among the local populace, who, fueled by fear and misinformation, saw Priestley as a threat to their community and their way of life. The resulting mob, estimated to number in the hundreds, descended upon Priestley's home, ransacking it and setting it ablaze. This image serves as a stark reminder of the volatile political and social climate of the time, and the destructive power of mob violence. Despite the destruction of his home, Priestley continued his work, eventually emigrating to the United States, where he spent the remainder of his days.

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