Motivations of a Political Activist: John Clifford and the Education Bill of 1902

Abstract

In any consideration of Baptists, John Clifford stands out as an imposing figure. His long life covered a span of eighty-seven years (1836-1923) and was filled with significant achievements.1 Not only did he attain great recognition as a leader among Eng lish Baptists, but Clifford gained high status within the ranks of Baptist leaders throughout the world. He was one of the prime movers in the founding of the Baptist World Congress and served as its first president. Just as Clifford functioned as an out standing leader within his own denomination, he received rec ognition for his qualities of leadership within the larger Protestant Free Church movement as well.2 He was a great churchman involved in the great religious issues of his day; but he also was a citizen (in the authentic sense of that word) and exerted extensive moral leadership far beyond the realm of in