Francis Jeffrey

Date of Birth: October 23, 1773

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: January 26, 1850

Biography

Francis Jeffrey was a distinguished Scottish judge and literary critic. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Jeffrey is best known for his work as the editor of the influential Edinburgh Review. He was a key figure in the Scottish Enlightenment and played a significant role in shaping public opinion through his sharp and insightful critiques. Jeffrey studied at the University of Glasgow and later at Queen’s College, Oxford. He was called to the Scottish Bar in 1794 and quickly established himself as a leading advocate. His legal career culminated in his appointment as a judge in the Court of Session, Scotland’s supreme civil court, where he served with distinction. In addition to his legal work, Jeffrey was deeply involved in literary circles. He was a founding member of the Edinburgh Review, where he served as editor from 1803 to 1829. Under his leadership, the Review became one of the most influential periodicals of its time, known for its rigorous and often controversial critiques of contemporary literature and politics.

5 Interesting Facts about Francis Jeffrey

1. Francis Jeffrey was one of the founding members of the Edinburgh Review, a publication that had a significant impact on 19th-century literature and politics.

2. He was known for his sharp wit and incisive critiques, often sparking controversy and debate through his reviews.

3. Jeffrey played a key role in the trial of Queen Caroline, the estranged wife of King George IV, where he served as one of her defense attorneys.

4. He was appointed Lord Advocate in 1830, the chief legal advisor to the Crown in Scotland.

5. Despite his professional achievements, Jeffrey struggled with public speaking due to a stammer, a challenge he worked hard to overcome throughout his career.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francis Jeffrey

1. “The tendency of democracies is, in all things, to mediocrity.”

2. “Taste is the feminine of genius.”

3. “There is no wisdom in useless and hopeless sorrow.”

4. “The most intellectual of men should be in the closest communion with the most unlettered and the poorest.”

5. “It is true that we cannot be free from sin, but at least let our sins be human and not devilish.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Francis Jeffrey’s net worth was estimated to be approximately £100,000, a significant sum in the 19th century, reflecting both his legal earnings and his involvement in various literary ventures.

Children

Francis Jeffrey had one daughter named Charlotte Jeffrey, who survived him and was known to have been a great comfort and support to him throughout his later years.