I am very sad to report the death of Chris R. L. Tame, a co-founder of the Libertarian Alliance, a director of Libertarian International, a brilliant intellectual, and for me, a long time friend. I was at his bedside a few hours before his death, on Monday, 20 March, at 15:37 hours.

Much too young to die, Chris followed all the accepted advice on healthy living, but was nonetheless snatched away from us by cancer. Bad things happen.

Much will be published about Chris on libertarian websites across the world, so powerful and galvanising was his personality. A diligent organiser with a keen eye for spotting new opportunities, he didn't pursue a business career. A Ph.D. from Middlesex University, he was not interested in the conformism of university life. The author of innumerable articles published in academic journals, he never wrote a book. He was equally at ease discussing rock n' roll and Thomas Aquinas, and did not see why he would have to choose between his varied intellectual interests. His life mission was to lead and inspire. The Libertarian Alliance and its 700 publications, the awards he won from so many libertarian organisations, are a tribute to his decisive influence.

Chris challenged so many of us; we were heartened and gently pushed to give our best to the cause of freedom. And always generous to his friends, he would lavish on us the same formidable knowledge, impeccable logic and sharp humour that he would use with such devastating results against our intellectual enemies.

The Libertarian Alliance and Libertarian International have worked very closely together these last years. Our cooperation has been strengthened by cross directorships and the LI Board will sorely miss Chris' contributions in organising conferences and sponsoring events. This function will be continued by Dr Sean Gabb, a long time friend of Chris' and co-founder of the LA, who also serves on our Board.

Twice divorced, Chris had no children. But he survives in the minds of thousands of young intellectuals who are spreading his ideas around the world.

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Christian Michel is President, Libertarian International