Abstract
Tony Wrigley played a central, indeed pioneering, role in determining how the demographic history of England would be measured, described and explained between the middle of the 16th century and the mid-Victorian period. Furthermore, he situated his analysis of demographic history within another element of his career, as an economic historian who made unique and fundamentally important contributions to the understanding of how England moved from being a second rank European economy to the most heavily urbanised and industrial society globally. He maintained a striking momentum in his research and publication, whilst having a significant impact on a remarkably large number of institutions to which he belonged and whose development he nurtured. He was a truly interdisciplinary social scientist who held academic posts in UK university departments of geography, demography and history. He displayed a noteworthy capacity to collaborate with others, whether in group-based research or working as a chair or president at the helm of numerous institutions (including President of the British Academy 1997–2001). He was always careful to be well briefed, reaching deeply considered views which he presented with great clarity and not a little determination. He remained an intellectually driven figure throughout an academic career lasting almost three quarters of a century, which brought him notable public recognition. Nonetheless he never lost a noteworthy modesty, and maintained a distinctive lightness of touch in debate that was a key feature of his personality.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call