Yes, the above answer is correct. But it could have two meanings. 'financially conservative' could mean personally frgual, as Deanna explained. But it could also mean a person who agreed with the conservative party about financial politics. The difference is a literal meaning (the first) versus terms which have political meaning (the second). Sometimes people who call themselves 'conservatives' conserve, but sometimes they don't :) In this case we know that Emerson was a writer in history, so we understand the first meaning is meant. But if you said the same thing about a person today, we wouldn't know. In fact, the second meaning might be a little more strongly implied, just because there are simpler ways to say the first meaning. It is considered good writing (and speaking) style in English to use the most simple words, or at least to avoid long and complex phrases. There is a saying in Finnish language 'to talk like a book' which points out this error. But that doesn't mean you can't be elegant and subtle. It just means to avoid complex sentence constructions or unusual words. (Ironically, many Americans think that having a large vocabulary of long words will make them more impressive and successful, but actually the opposite is true) There is a fantastic book called 'The Elements of Style' that every student of English- including native speakers- should read. It is very short and easy to read, but it is perhaps the finest book on English writing syle ever written. In particular the book emphasizes the importance of using the simplest wording. Just like Deanna demonstrated with 'He lived a very simple lifestyle'. You can see 'The Elements of Style', and read excerpts, here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/020530902X?ie=UTF8&tag=yetz-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=020530902X

"lived a financially conservative lifestyle" means the person practiced frugality. He was very careful with his money. He didn't live beyond his means. He tried to spend as little money as possible and avoided any kind of waste. You can also say, "a very simple lifestyle."

Yes ....its Ok so .. this is the meanning....:He was very careful with his money..!