Great Lives

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Factual: Life Stories

Biographical series in which guests choose someone who has inspired their lives.

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Great Lives: Jeremy Paxman nominates Lord Shaftesbury

Jeremy Paxman nominates Lord Shaftesbury

BBC Radio 4 - Great Lives, Jeremy Paxman nominates Lord Shaftesbury

Jeremy Paxman nominates the Victorian social reformer Lord Shaftesbury.

Matthew Parris is joined by Jeremy Paxman and Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, 12th Earl of Shaftesbury, to explore the life of one of the nineteenth century's most influential politicians.

What makes a brilliant politician? What should motivate them? Does having a faith help? 

Broadcaster and writer Jeremy Paxman chooses the seventh earl of Shaftesbury, Anthony Ashley-Cooper. a Victorian politician whose numerous and wide-ranging social reforms transformed working and living conditions for impoverished children, miners and chimney-sweeps alike. 

Joining Matthew Parris and Jeremy Paxman is Lord Shaftesbury's great-great-grandson, the twelfth earl, Nick Ashley-Cooper. The three discover more about the Ashley-Cooper dynasty, ponder what makes a good earl and explore how aristocratic life has changed between then and now. 

Producer: Camellia Sinclair

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

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Great Lives

Jeremy Paxman nominates Lord Shaftesbury

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