First and Last is a collection of essays by Hilaire Belloc, offering sharp insights on history, politics, literature, and human nature. Written over several decades, these pieces reflect Belloc’s wit, intellectual rigor, and deep commitment to Catholicism and Western tradition. He explores timeless themes such as the nature of power, the importance of property, the decline of civilization, and the enduring truths of faith. With clarity and conviction, Belloc critiques modern trends while affirming enduring principles rooted in reason and tradition. Though diverse in subject matter, the essays are united by his belief in the centrality of religious and cultural foundations to societal health. This work stands as a testament to Belloc’s enduring relevance as a thinker and commentator on the enduring struggles of man and the state.
