W. T. Stead
From The Art and Popular Culture Encyclopedia
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William Thomas Stead (July 5, 1849 - April 15, 1912) was an English journalist. He was born at Embleton, Northumberland.
Eliza Armstrong case
In 1885, he entered upon a crusade against child prostitution by publishing a series of articles entitled The Maiden Tribute of Modern Babylon. In order to demonstrate the truth of his revelations, he arranged the 'purchase' of the thirteen-year old daughter of a chimney sweep, Eliza Armstrong.
Though his action is thought to have furthered the passing of the Criminal Law Amendment Act of 1885, it made his position on the paper impossible. In fact, his successful demonstration of the trade's existence led to his conviction and a three-month term of imprisonment at Coldbath Fields and Holloway prisons. He was convicted on grounds that he had failed to first secure permission for the "purchase" from the father of the girl.
