A. P. Herbert

Date of Birth: September 24, 1890

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: November 11, 1971

Biography

Sir Alan Patrick Herbert, commonly known as A. P. Herbert, was a prolific English novelist, playwright, humorist, and law reform activist. Born in Ashtead, Surrey, England, Herbert was educated at Winchester College and New College, Oxford. He served in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during World War I and later became a noted satirist, contributing to Punch magazine. His comic law reports, published as “Misleading Cases,” brought him widespread acclaim. In addition to his literary career, Herbert was an Independent Member of Parliament for the Oxford University constituency from 1935 to 1950, where he championed legal reforms, including the Matrimonial Causes Act 1937, which liberalized divorce laws. He was knighted in 1945 for his services to literature and law.

5 Interesting Facts about A. P. Herbert

1. A. P. Herbert served in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during World War I, where he was involved in the Gallipoli Campaign and was later wounded.

2. He was a regular contributor to the satirical magazine Punch, where his humorous legal cases gained immense popularity.

3. Herbert’s book “The Secret Battle,” which was based on his wartime experiences, is considered one of the finest novels of World War I.

4. He played a significant role in the reform of British divorce laws through the Matrimonial Causes Act 1937.

5. Herbert was knighted in 1945 for his contributions to literature and for his efforts in legal reform.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from A. P. Herbert

1. “The critical period in matrimony is breakfast-time.”

2. “The concept of two people living together for 25 years without a serious dispute suggests a lack of spirit only to be admired in sheep.”

3. “Let’s find out what everyone is doing, and then stop everyone from doing it.”

4. “People must not do things for fun. We are not here for fun. There is no reference to fun in any Act of Parliament.”

5. “The English common law is a law of torts, and the law of torts is a law of liberty.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While A. P. Herbert’s exact net worth is not documented, his highest net worth would have been derived from his successful literary career, his contributions to Punch magazine, and his tenure as a Member of Parliament. However, exact figures are not available.