How Controversial was It When Benjamin Disraeli Became Prime Minister of the UK?

The rise of Benjamin Disraeli to the position of Prime Minister of the UK in 1868 was not marked by significant controversy. His ascent to power was relatively smooth, grounded in his consistent political influence and the prevailing political landscape of the time.

Political Landscape and Succession

Disraeli was already a prominent political figure, serving as Chancellor of the Exchequer to a Prime Minister in the House of Lords. This established him as a senior Conservative MP, making his position as the clear successor to Sir Robert Banks Jenkinson, 2nd Earl of Derby, a forgone conclusion. In the aftermath of the 1868 election, the Conservatives once again found themselves in opposition to the Liberals, who had a significant majority after the previous election in 1865. This shift in political dynamics was a predictable outcome, not a surprising development.

Religious and Social Controversies

While religious and social factors did contribute to some level of controversy regarding Disraeli, they were not the primary sources of his political challenges. Disraeli's conversion to Anglicanism during his youth helped mitigate some religious objections, although there were still some reactionary elements, notably his subsequent Conservative leader, Lord Salisbury, who held distrust towards Disraeli's ethnic background. However, these sentiments were not widely shared, and in an era when political elites often operated in smoke-filled rooms, the ultimate decision was made by the ruling class, not the masses.

Famous Quotes and Historical Context

It's a common misconception that Disraeli's path to the prime ministership was fraught with conflict due to his personal indiscretions and his ethnicity. Disraeli's life was indeed marked by various controversies, such as his financial misfortunes and his image as a dandy. However, his greatest controversy lay in his status as the first and only Jewish Prime Minister in British history—a fact that was far more significant than his personal quirks.

Personal Struggles and Historical Persecution

Disraeli's early financial troubles, akin to the speculative frenzy of the 1820s mining boom, were a reflection of the broader economic uncertainties of the time. His literary career, which included satirical works, faced its share of criticism, further adding to his persona as a complex individual. Despite these challenges, Disraeli's conversion to Anglicanism enabled him to navigate the political landscape more effectively, avoiding the outright discrimination that practising Jews often faced. For instance, his election victory in 1837 faced opposition from hecklers who labeled him "Shylock," but his historical impact was undeniably significant.

Conclusion

In sum, Disraeli's path to becoming Prime Minister of the UK was less about controversy and more about the natural progression of a politically seasoned individual within a decided power structure. While his legacy is rich with personal indiscretions and historical firsts, his political ascent is best understood within the context of historical and social factors.