1 Joseph Priestley, Minister and Teacher

Abstract This chapter examines the changes in Priestley's religious opinions against the background of his life, his work as a minister and teacher, and the impact of his theological and other ideas upon the development of modern Unitarianism. Topics discussed include Priestley's early life and education, his admission into the Daventry Academy; his early ministries: Needham Market and Nantwich; his invitation to become a tutor at Warrington Academy; his ministry at Mill Hill, Leeds; and his adoption of Unitarian opinions. It is argued that Priestley's most lasting contribution was his role in Unitarianism replacing Arianism as the main form of anti-Trinitarian speculation in Britain.