In this thesis an attempt has been made to show what actuated Melbourne the politician and to consider how far he may have been under-estimated, even, perhaps, under-valued. It would be presumptuous for the writer to claim either to have thoroughly understood a historical figure, or to be able to enhance greatly that person's political stature. But fairly common sense can now be made of Melbourne's career; and in the process he seems to emerge as a major, if not a dominant force in the 1830's.
Almost from the start of his political life Melbourne was profoundly preoccupied with the great question of the distribution of political power in the country. From 1815 to 1830 he was against wanton change but he was also sensitive to the ultimate need for change. These thoughtful, flexible attitudes, combined with his strength of character, enabled him to play a considerable part in the passage of the Reform Bill. But thereafter he suffered from an irremovable sense of guilt at having assisted in the destruction of the old system. His determination to control the pace of future change inspired him for the rest of the decade.
Continued in thesis ..
