Charles Trevelyan

Date of Birth: April 2, 1807

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: June 19, 1886

Biography

Sir Charles Edward Trevelyan, 1st Baronet (April 2, 1807 – June 19, 1886), was a British civil servant and colonial administrator. He is best known for his role in the administration of British India and his controversial policies during the Great Irish Famine. Born in Taunton, Somerset, England, Trevelyan joined the East India Company in 1826 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his keen intellect and administrative skills. He served as Assistant Secretary to the Treasury under Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel and played a significant role in reforming the British civil service. Trevelyan’s time in India saw him implementing important administrative reforms that aimed to modernize the colonial government. However, his legacy is marred by his handling of the Great Irish Famine (1845-1852), where his policies have been widely criticized for exacerbating the suffering and mortality rates among the Irish population. After returning from India, Trevelyan continued to serve in various administrative roles in Britain, advocating for educational reforms and public service efficiency. He was made a baronet in 1874 in recognition of his contributions to public service. Trevelyan passed away on June 19, 1886, leaving behind a complex legacy marked by both significant administrative reforms and controversial policies.

5 Interesting Facts about Charles Trevelyan

1. Trevelyan was instrumental in introducing the competitive examination system for civil service recruitment in Britain.

2. He played a key role in the establishment of the Indian Civil Service, which became the backbone of British administration in India.

3. His book “The Irish Crisis,” published in 1848, defended the British government’s handling of the Great Irish Famine.

4. Trevelyan was knighted in 1848 and later created a baronet in 1874.

5. He was a strong advocate for the introduction of a national education system in Britain.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Charles Trevelyan

1. “The real evil which we have to contend with is not the physical evil of the famine, but the moral evil of the selfish, perverse, and turbulent character of the people.”

2. “It is a melancholy fact that the sufferings of the people are to a considerable extent their own creation.”

3. “The principle of non-interference is one to which we must adhere, and it is the only means by which we can improve the character of the people.”

4. “We must teach the people to rely upon themselves and not upon government aid.”

5. “The operation of natural causes and the voluntary energies of the people themselves must be our chief reliance.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Trevelyan’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a high-ranking civil servant and baronet, he would have been relatively affluent for his time.

Children

Charles Trevelyan had several children, including Sir George Trevelyan, 2nd Baronet, who became a prominent historian and politician. His descendants continued to play significant roles in British public and political life.