Date of Birth: September 16, 1678
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Date of Death: December 12, 1751
Biography
Henry St. John was a prominent British politician, known for his influential role in the early 18th century. Born into a well-established family, St. John carved out a significant place for himself in the political landscape of his time. He was educated at Eton College and later at Christ Church, Oxford, where he developed a keen interest in politics and philosophy. St. John’s political career began in earnest when he was elected to the House of Commons in 1701. He quickly became a leading figure in the Tory party, known for his eloquence and persuasive oratory skills. St. John was appointed Secretary at War in 1704 and subsequently served as Secretary of State for the Northern Department. His most notable political achievement came when he was elevated to the peerage as Viscount Bolingbroke in 1712. Despite his successes, St. John’s career was marred by controversy and political intrigue. He was implicated in Jacobite plots and subsequently fled to France in 1715. During his exile, he wrote extensively on political philosophy, producing works that would later influence thinkers such as Edmund Burke and Thomas Jefferson. St. John’s later years saw a partial political rehabilitation, and he returned to England, although he never regained his earlier political stature. He continued to write and remained an influential figure in political and intellectual circles until his death.
5 Interesting Facts about Henry St. John
1. Henry St. John was a key figure in the Treaty of Utrecht, which helped end the War of the Spanish Succession.
2. He was created Viscount Bolingbroke in 1712.
3. St. John was accused of treason and fled to France, where he befriended Voltaire.
4. His political writings had a significant impact on the development of classical liberalism.
5. St. John was a mentor to Alexander Pope, the famed English poet.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry St. John
1. “The greatest evils are from within us, and from ourselves also we must look for our greatest good.”
2. “Truth lies within a little and certain compass, but error is immense.”
3. “History is philosophy teaching by examples.”
4. “The only infallible rule we have for the conduct of life is to follow the light of reason.”
5. “Patriotism must be founded on great principles and supported by great virtue.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the height of his career, Henry St. John, Viscount Bolingbroke, amassed a net worth equivalent to approximately £1 million in today’s money.
Children
Henry St. John had no legitimate children, although he was rumored to have had several illegitimate offspring.
Relevant Links
2. [Henry St. John on History.com](https://www.history.com/topics/british-history/henry-st-john
5. [Letters and Writings of Henry St. John](https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/henry_st_john
