Charles Caleb Colton

Date of Birth: December 11, 1780

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: April 28, 1832

Biography

Charles Caleb Colton was a renowned English cleric, writer, and collector who lived during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He is best known for his aphorisms and essays, which are characterized by their wit and keen observation of human nature. Colton’s most famous work, “Lacon, or Many Things in Few Words,” was published in 1820 and remains a significant source of quotations to this day. Despite his success as a writer, Colton led a turbulent life marked by financial difficulties and eccentric behavior. He spent many years traveling across Europe, particularly in France, where he indulged in gambling and other vices. His life ended tragically in Paris, where he took his own life in 1832.

5 Interesting Facts about Charles Caleb Colton

1. Charles Caleb Colton was educated at Eton College and later at King’s College, Cambridge.

2. He served as a clergyman in various parishes but was often criticized for neglecting his duties.

3. Colton was an avid art collector and had a keen interest in rare books and manuscripts.

4. His penchant for gambling led to significant financial troubles, prompting him to flee to France to escape creditors.

5. Despite his personal struggles, Colton’s writings have left a lasting impact, with many of his quotes still widely cited today.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Charles Caleb Colton

1. “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.”

2. “The greatest friend of truth is Time, her greatest enemy is Prejudice, and her constant companion is Humility.”

3. “True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it is lost.”

4. “Wealth, after all, is a relative thing, since he that has little and wants less is richer than he that has much and wants more.”

5. “Corruption is like a ball of snow, once it’s set a rolling it must increase.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Charles Caleb Colton’s net worth was never formally recorded, but his financial difficulties suggest he did not achieve significant wealth during his lifetime. His gambling habits and subsequent debts indicate that he may have squandered much of his earnings.