January 12, 1729

Edmund Burke, Irish statesman and philosopher, was born on this day in Dublin Ireland. Burke, who emigrated to London and served for many years in the House of Commons, is viewed as the founder of modern Conservatism. He is remembered for his support of Irish independence from Britain, and the American Revolution of which he famously said: “Young man, there is America — which at this day serves for little more than to amuse you with stories of savage men, and uncouth manners; yet shall, before you taste of death, show itself equal to the whole of that commerce which now attracts the envy of the world.”