Henry Mayhew

Date of Birth: 25 November 1812

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 25 July 1887

Biography

Henry Mayhew was an influential English social researcher, journalist, playwright, and advocate for the working class in the 19th century. Born in London, Mayhew was educated at Westminster School but left at a young age to work as a freelance journalist. He co-founded the satirical and humorous magazine “Punch” in 1841, which became a significant platform for his work. Mayhew is best known for his extensive investigations into the lives of the poor in London, published as “London Labour and the London Poor” (1851). This monumental work offered a vivid and detailed account of the struggles of the city’s underclass, blending interviews, social analysis, and statistics. His commitment to shedding light on social injustices made him a pivotal figure in Victorian-era journalism and social reform.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry Mayhew

1. Henry Mayhew’s work “London Labour and the London Poor” is considered a pioneering effort in social journalism and urban sociology.

2. Mayhew co-founded the satirical magazine “Punch,” which became one of the most influential publications in Britain during the 19th century.

3. He conducted firsthand interviews with street vendors, beggars, and other marginalized individuals, providing an unprecedented look at their lives.

4. Mayhew’s work influenced future social reformers and writers, including Charles Dickens, who used Mayhew’s findings to inform his own novels.

5. Despite his significant contributions to journalism and social reform, Mayhew struggled with financial instability throughout his life.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry Mayhew

1. “Facts are to the mind what food is to the body.”

2. “The very poor have not the means of discovering the real value of money.”

3. “The great mass of the poor are morally and physically degraded by their poverty.”

4. “The street-sellers are the most numerous class of those who subsist by their wits.”

5. “The life of the poor is a perpetual struggle for existence.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henry Mayhew did not achieve significant wealth during his lifetime. His highest net worth would be modest by today’s standards, as he faced financial difficulties for most of his life.

Children

Henry Mayhew had several children, but details about them are not widely documented. His personal life, including information about his children, remains relatively obscure compared to his professional achievements.