Famous British Publishers

Born to Waldorf Astor, the owner of The Observer, David Astor followed in his father’s footsteps and transformed the family-owned newspaper into its progressive avatar, as its editor. Educated at Eton, he had later joined Oxford but left without a degree. He later promoted creative arts in prisons.

Legendary British journalist C.P. Scott is best remembered as the editor of the iconic Manchester Guardian, which later became known as The Guardian. As part of its liberal stance under his editorship, the Guardian took up many controversial issues, such as the Irish Home Rule.

William Nicholson is best remembered for discovering the electrolysis of water, which revolutionized the chemical industry. His inventions also include his own hydrometer and launched the first independent science journal. Inspired by his writer friend Thomas Holcroft, he also penned An Introduction to Natural Philosophy, his best-known written work.

Emery Walker was an English photographer, engraver, and printer. He is best remembered for his participation in several organizations, such as the Art Workers Guild, the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society, and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, that were closely associated with the Arts and Crafts movement between 1880 and 1920.