The True History of the State Prisoner, commonly called the Iron Mask (ePub)

George Agar-Ellis, 1st Baron Dover (1797-1833), was a distinguished British historian and politician of the early 19th century. He was born into an aristocratic family, the son of Henry Ellis, 2nd Viscount Clifden. A scholar with a keen interest in history and arts, Ellis pursued a career that combined both his political ambitions and his scholarly pursuits. He served as a Member of Parliament, representing different constituencies during his political career, and was an active member of the Whig party. Ellis was also known for his contributions to historical literature. His work, 'The True History of the State Prisoner, commonly called the Iron Mask' (1826), delves into the enigmatic story of a prisoner during the reign of Louis XIV of France, offering insights and hypotheses on the prisoner's identity that have sparked discussion among historians. Written in a scholarly style, the book reflects Ellis' dedication to rigorous historical research and his interest in European history. His literary style is marked by clarity, detail, and a commitment to analyzing primary sources, which still lends historical value to his writings. Ellis's work not only exemplifies scholarly dedication but also serves to highlight the complementary nature of his political and historical achievements.