A 19th-century bishop and historian who wrote influential works on medieval England, shaping the field of historical study. His writings remain essential reading for scholars today.
William Stubbs, a renowned English historian and Anglican bishop, left an indelible mark on the fields of history and theology. As Regius Professor of Modern History at the University of Oxford from 1866 to 1884, Stubbs revolutionized the study of history, establishing it as a distinct academic discipline.
Born on June 21, 1825, in Knaresborough, Yorkshire, Stubbs was the son of William Morley Stubbs, a solicitor, and his wife, Mary Ann Henlock. He received his education at Ripon Grammar School and Christ Church, Oxford, where he graduated with a Master of Arts degree in 1848, securing a first-class in Literae Humaniores and a third in mathematics.
Stubbs' academic career took off when he was elected a Fellow of Trinity College, Oxford, in 1850. He served as parish priest in Navestock, Essex, from 1850 to 1866, during which time he married Catherine Dellar, daughter of John Dellar, and had several children. His attempt to secure the Chichele Professorship of Modern History at Oxford in 1862 was unsuccessful, but he later became Regius Professor of Modern History in 1866, a position he held until 1884.
As Regius Professor, Stubbs founded Oxford University's School of Modern History in 1872, a pioneering initiative that allowed post-classical history to be taught as a distinct subject for the first time. His lectures, although thinly attended, were published in his Lectures on Mediaeval and Modern History. Stubbs also interacted with future doyens of the historical profession during his tenure at Oxford, earning the patronage of the Stubbs Society.
In 1875, Stubbs became the rector of Cholderton, Wiltshire, a position he held until 1879. He was subsequently appointed a canon of St Paul's Cathedral and served on the ecclesiastical courts commission from 1881 to 1883, contributing weighty appendices to the report.
On April 25, 1884, Stubbs was consecrated Bishop of Chester, a position he held until 1889. He then became Bishop of Oxford, serving until his death on April 22, 1901.
William Stubbs' contributions to the field of history are immeasurable. He revolutionized the study of history, establishing it as a distinct academic discipline, and founded Oxford University's School of Modern History. As Bishop of Oxford, he played a significant role in shaping the Anglican Church's approach to history and theology. Stubbs' legacy serves as a testament to his dedication to scholarship, education, and the Anglican Communion.
Through his remarkable career, William Stubbs demonstrated an unwavering commitment to scholarship, education, and the Anglican Church. His pioneering work in establishing history as a distinct academic discipline continues to inspire historians and scholars to this day.
Born in 1800
A renowned poet, historian, and politician who played a significant role in shaping British politics and literature in the 19th century, particularly through his writings on British history. He's also known for his influential essays and speeches that reflected his liberal and reformist views.
Born in 1818
A prominent 19th-century historian, novelist, and biographer who wrote influential works on English history, including "The History of England from the Fall of Wolsey to the Death of Elizabeth".
Born in 1809
A British statesman who served as Prime Minister four times, known for his liberal policies and efforts to reform the British Empire. He's also famous for his rivalry with Benjamin Disraeli.
Born in 1804
A skilled politician who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, known for his influential role in shaping the country's politics and economy during the 19th century.
Born in 1907
A veteran character actor with a distinctive voice, he brought depth and nuance to a wide range of film and TV roles, often playing authority figures.
