John Burns Collection

The Parliamentary Debate on the Telephone Agreement, 27 January (engraving)
1629295 The Parliamentary Debate on the Telephone Agreement, 27 January (engraving) by Cleaver, Ralph (fl.1902); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Parliamentary Debate on the Telephone Agreement)

Mr Chamberlains frankest critic: the Right Hon John Burns at Derby (litho)
3637818 Mr Chamberlains frankest critic: the Right Hon John Burns at Derby (litho) by Koekkoek, Hermanus Willem (1867-1929) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: Mr Chamberlains frankest critic)

Members of the New Parliament (engraving)
1047896 Members of the New Parliament (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Members of the New Parliament)

British Yachtsmen, a Portrait Group (engraving)
1045945 British Yachtsmen, a Portrait Group (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: British Yachtsmen, a Portrait Group)

Sketches at the great Labour demonstration in Hyde Park, Sunday 3 May 1891 (engraving)
607327 Sketches at the great Labour demonstration in Hyde Park, Sunday 3 May 1891 (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

John Burns (colour litho)
613305 John Burns (colour litho) by Ward, Leslie Matthew (Spy) (1851-1922); Private Collection; (add.info.: John Burns, Battersea, 15 October 1892)

John Burns addressing a meeting of dockers on Tower Hill (engraving)
583534 John Burns addressing a meeting of dockers on Tower Hill (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

John Burns, English trade unionist and politician (b / w photo)
981760 John Burns, English trade unionist and politician (b/w photo) by English photographer, (19th century) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: John Burns (1858-1943)

Mr Burns addresses the Council (engraving)
1047092 Mr Burns addresses the Council (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Mr Burns addresses the Council)

The great dock strikes (engraving)
614484 The great dock strikes (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The great dock strikes: conciliation conference at the Mansion House, London)

Sketches at the Great Labour Demonstration in Hyde Park (engraving)
1603112 Sketches at the Great Labour Demonstration in Hyde Park (engraving) by Almond, William Douglas (1866-1916); Private Collection; (add.info)

Burns At Horse Show
25th February 1913: British trade unionist John Burns watching the judging at the Shire Horse Show. (Photo by Topical Press Agency/Getty Images)

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John Burns was a prominent figure in British politics and trade unionism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his fiery speeches and unwavering commitment to social justice, Burns left an indelible mark on the political landscape of his time. One of the most iconic images capturing John Burns' influence is an engraving depicting him passionately participating in The Parliamentary Debate on the Telephone Agreement on 27 January. As Mr Chamberlain's frankest critic, he fearlessly voiced his opinions, challenging the status quo with conviction. Another lithograph showcases Burns at Derby, where he emerged as a forceful advocate for workers' rights. His dedication to improving labor conditions earned him respect among both colleagues and constituents alike. In yet another engraving titled "Sketches at the Great Labour Demonstration in Hyde Park, " we see John Burns amidst a sea of supporters. This powerful image captures his ability to mobilize crowds through impassioned rhetoric and inspire hope for a fairer society. Not limited to political arenas alone, it also played a significant role within trade unions. An engraving portrays him addressing dockers on Tower Hill, highlighting his commitment to fighting for better working conditions for those often overlooked by society. Throughout his career, John Burns remained steadfast in championing causes close to his heart. A black-and-white photograph depicts him as an English trade unionist and politician—a testament to his multifaceted persona that transcended traditional boundaries. As seen in various engravings documenting historic events such as "The Great Dock Strikes" or "Members of the New Parliament, " it becomes evident that John Burns was not one to shy away from controversy or difficult battles. He fearlessly confronted societal issues head-on with determination unmatched by many of his contemporaries. John Burns' legacy extends beyond mere politics; he was also known for being anti-racist and socialist—an embodiment of progressive ideals that continue inspiring generations today.