Edward Atkinson (activist)

Edward Atkinson (February 10, 1827 – December 11, 1905) was an American economist, anti-imperialist activist, and writer. He was a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for his staunch opposition to protectionist tariffs and U.S. expansionism.

Atkinson was born in Brookline, Massachusetts. He initially worked in the textile industry, eventually becoming a successful manufacturer. He leveraged his experience to become a recognized expert in industrial economics, advocating for free trade and sound money.

Atkinson’s activism was particularly notable in his opposition to the Spanish-American War and the subsequent U.S. annexation of the Philippines. He co-founded the Anti-Imperialist League in 1898 and became a vocal critic of President William McKinley's policies. He argued that imperialism violated the principles of American democracy and self-government, and that it would lead to economic and political instability. He published numerous pamphlets and articles condemning U.S. imperialism, often emphasizing the financial burdens it would place on American taxpayers and the potential for conflict with other nations.

He authored several books on economic and social issues, including "The Distribution of Products" (1885), "Taxation and Work" (1892), and "Facts and Figures, the Basis of Economic Science" (1904). He was a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Atkinson's economic thought aligned with classical liberalism, emphasizing the importance of individual liberty, limited government, and free markets. He believed that tariffs and other forms of government intervention distorted economic activity and harmed consumers. He was a strong advocate for hard currency, opposing inflationary monetary policies.

While his views on imperialism were controversial during his time, they have since been re-evaluated and appreciated by some for their prescience regarding the long-term consequences of U.S. foreign policy. Edward Atkinson died in Boston, Massachusetts. His legacy remains as a forceful voice against interventionism and a proponent of economic freedom.