Henry George Bohn

Date of Birth: January 4, 1796

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: August 22, 1884

Biography

Henry George Bohn was an influential businessman and publisher born in the early 19th century. He is best known for his extensive work in the publishing industry, particularly through his eponymous series “Bohn’s Libraries,” which made classic literature more accessible to the general public. His career began in the book trade, where he displayed a keen eye for valuable and rare books. Bohn’s publishing ventures were characterized by high-quality, affordable editions of significant works, spanning literature, science, and the arts. His prolific output and dedication to spreading knowledge cemented his reputation as a pivotal figure in the democratization of learning.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry George Bohn

1. Henry George Bohn founded “Bohn’s Libraries,” a series that included over 600 volumes of classical literature reprints.

2. He was a polyglot, fluent in multiple languages including German, French, Italian, and Spanish.

3. Bohn was a collector of rare books and prints, amassing a significant personal library.

4. His catalog, “A Catalogue of Books,” published in 1841, became a vital reference for book collectors.

5. Bohn was not just a publisher but also an author; he wrote several reference works, including “A Dictionary of Quotations.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry George Bohn

1. “Books are the treasured wealth of the world and the fit inheritance of generations and nations.”

2. “To read without reflecting is like eating without digesting.”

3. “A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end.”

4. “The best books are those that tell you what you already know.”

5. “Literature is the art of discovering something extraordinary about ordinary people, and saying with ordinary words something extraordinary.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Henry George Bohn’s net worth was estimated to be approximately £500,000, a substantial sum for his era.

Children

Henry George Bohn had four children. His eldest son, John George Bohn, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a noted publisher. His other children included Mary Ann Bohn, William Henry Bohn, and Charles James Bohn, who pursued various careers outside of publishing.