William Morgan

‘William Morgan has long been recognised as one of the most important actuaries in the history of the profession. This well-researched biography tells the story of William the man beyond the actuary, revealing a person of remarkable dexterity, energy and talent – a scientifically-inquisitive natural philosopher; a liberal political activist; and a dedicated family man. It makes for a fascinating and inspiring read.’
-Craig Turnbull FIA, author of A History of British Actuarial Thought

‘A delight from beginning to end. Nicola Bruton Bennetts not only brings a complicated and endearing character to life in a remarkably vivid way, but also secures his place at the heart of Georgian radical thought.’
-Adrian Tinniswood, author of The Royal Society and the Invention of Modern Science

'This book is a fascinating account of the life and accomplishments of William Morgan of Bridgend: ‘eighteenth-century actuary, mathematician and radical’. The author has succeeded in weaving a rich tribute drawing on family ties, personal connections, and meticulous research, describing William’s life against the historical, economic, political and social backdrop of his time. The author of this book is successful in describing William’s achievements, aspirations and personal disappointments in the context of his own times and against the backdrop of international influences. Significant comparisons are also made with present-day financial thinking: public debt is an economic fact of modern life, but in the 18th century was undesirable and thought to be untenable. Congratulations to the author on a immensely readable and lively account which never skimps on detail and succeeds in entertaining and informing the reader in equal measure about William Morgan’s remarkable life'.
- Glamorgan History Society’s Morgannwg journal