William Thompson was born in Derry, was educated privately, and worked on local newspapers such as the Belfast Morning News. He then went to London to join the staff of The Standard. He edited Reynolds' News and stood as a Progressive candidate for London County Council and was elected. In 1880 he was called to the Bar and defended trade unionists, among them John Burns.

Born:	24 April 1857
Died:	28 December 1907