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Robert Peel: life of the week

Robert Peel: life of the week

Richard Gaunt revisits the eventful parliamentary career of 19th-century politician and prime minister Robert Peel

Ellie Cawthorne

Published: September 30, 2025 at 8:00 AM

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He established the Metropolitan police, became embroiled in years of bitter disputes over the Corn Laws, and was vilified for his political U-turns. During his political career including two tenures as prime minister in the first half of the 19th century, Robert Peel didn't always have an easy ride of it. But, argues Richard Gaunt in this conversation with Ellie Cawthorne, Peel's political impact can still be felt today.

Authors

Ellie CawthorneHead of content (audio)

Ellie Cawthorne is head of content (audio) at HistoryExtra