The publication of The Tatler on 12 April 1709 launched a format of periodical journalism that used the pseudonym Isaac Bickerstaff to offer social commentary. Richard Steele, born in Dublin in 1671, balanced a career as an army officer and playwright with active involvement in the British political landscape throughout the early eighteenth century.
Early Military and Literary Trajectory
Educated at Charterhouse School and Merton College, Steele joined the Life Guards to support King William’s military campaigns against France. Commissioned in 1697, he achieved the rank of captain. His initial publication, The Christian Hero, appeared in 1701. That same year, his successful comedy, The Funeral, secured his reputation at Drury Lane. By 1705, he left military service to focus on writing, producing works such as The Tender Husband and collaborating with fellow Whig club members.
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Steele edited The Tatler as a tri-weekly periodical that aimed to strip away vanity and affectation from contemporary life. He wrote the majority of the essays, creating a lasting template for the genre before the publication ceased in 1711. Following this, he transitioned into new collaborative editorial efforts. His work established him as a key figure in the Whig literary circle, often associating with the Kit-Kat Club and Child’s Coffee-house.
Legislative Career and Later Years
Serving in the fourth, fifth, and sixth Parliaments of Great Britain, Steele represented constituencies including Stockbridge and Boroughbridge. His political career was marked by his vocal support for the Hanoverian succession, leading to his knighthood upon the accession of George I. After directing the successful comedy The Conscious Lovers in 1722, he retired to Wales in 1724. He died in 1729 and was buried at St Peter’s Church in Carmarthen.
Fast facts
- Born: 1671, Dublin, Ireland
- Died: 1729, Carmarthen
- Education: Charterhouse School; Merton College
- Political Affiliation: Whig
- Notable Publication: The Tatler
- Military Rank: Captain, Life Guards
Questions readers ask
What was Richard Steele’s primary political role?
He served as a member of the fourth, fifth, and sixth Parliaments of Great Britain.
Where is Richard Steele buried?
He is interred at St Peter’s Church in Carmarthen, Wales.
Achievements
- member of the 4th Parliament of Great Britain
- member of the 5th Parliament of Great Britain
- member of the 6th Parliament of Great Britain
- Educated at Merton College and Charterhouse School
