The True-Born Englishman

The True-Born Englishman is a satirical poem written by Daniel Defoe, most famous as the author of the novel "Robinson Crusoe." The pamphlet was first published in 1701 to defend King William III from xenophobic attacks.

The poem mocked the hypocrisy of English nationalism by asserting that the English nation was historically composed of immigrant descendants. It argued that the concept of a pure English bloodline was a myth, pointing out the heavy intermingling of Romans, Saxons, and Normans.

Defoe wrote the poem to defend King William III, who was Dutch, from xenophobic attacks regarding his foreign heritage. He used biting satire to highlight that the English themselves were the product of centuries of immigration and invasion.

Yes, the poem became Daniel Defoe's most popular and best-selling work during his lifetime, printed in multiple editions. Its sharp humor and historical accuracy made it highly successful, cementing his reputation long before he transitioned to writing novels.