Tucker, Josiah (1713–1799)

Abstract

Born in Laugharne, Carmarthenshire, Tucker was Dean of Gloucester from 1758 until his death, and was also a rector in Bristol for over 50 years. Although his career as an ecclesiastic was a long and honourable one, he was best known in his own day for his active part in many contemporary controversies. Whether the subject was the naturalization of foreign Protestants and Jews, the undesirable effect of low-priced liquors, or the cruel custom of cock-throwing on Shrove Tuesday, his pen was always ready. He was responsible for the earliest study of the Methodist movement and the first substantial critique of Locke’s political philosophy. The themes which recurred most often were his opposition to monopolies and his hatred of war. His interest in political affairs was not confined to the press: he participated in several Bristol elections as the local Whig agent.