Charles Booth
Person Male Born 30/3/1840 Died 23/11/1916
Philanthropist and shipowner. Born 27 Bedford North Street, Liverpool. On his father's death he took control of the family shipping business and extended it to include steamships. Following his involvement in a survey of work and education levels in Liverpool, he turned his attention to London. He disputed claims that 25% of Londoners lived in abject poverty, and embarked on the project of mapping the streets of London and colour coding them from 'Wealthy' to 'Vicious, Semi-Criminal'. From his data he calculated that the percentage was nearer 35%, and popularised the concept of a 'poverty line'.
Died at Gracedieu Manor, near Thringstone, Leicestershire.
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