Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Henry Brougham studied at the University of Edinburgh, where he distinguished himself with his intellectual abilities. He was admitted to the Scottish Bar in 1800. He entered Parliament in 1810 and quickly became an influential figure. As a Whig, Brougham was an ardent supporter of various reformist causes, including the abolition of slavery and the reform of the judicial system. He was instrumental in the creation of University College London and in establishing free schools for poor children. His defense speech for Caroline of Brunswick, queen consort of King George IV, in 1820, is considered one of the most impressive speeches in British history. He served as Lord Chancellor from 1830 to 1834, during which he oversaw important legal reforms. Brougham was also a prolific writer, contributing to the Edinburgh Review and publishing several works on politics and education. He passed away in 1868.