Hilaire Belloc

Date of Birth: July 27, 1870

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: July 16, 1953

Biography

Hilaire Belloc, born Joseph Hilaire Pierre René Belloc, was an Anglo-French writer and historian, best known for his prolific work as a poet, essayist, and satirist. Born on July 27, 1870, in La Celle-Saint-Cloud, France, Belloc moved to England with his family after the death of his father when he was two years old. He was educated at the Oratory School in Birmingham and later attended Balliol College, Oxford, where he became a prominent figure in the university’s intellectual circles. Belloc’s literary career spanned various genres, including poetry, fiction, essays, and historical writing. He is particularly noted for his humorous and satirical verse, with works such as “Cautionary Tales for Children” remaining popular to this day. His friendship with G.K. Chesterton led to the creation of the “Chesterbelloc” literary partnership, which significantly influenced Catholic and conservative thought in early 20th-century England. Belloc was also an outspoken public figure, serving as a Member of Parliament for Salford from 1906 to 1910. His political views were staunchly against the rise of socialism, and he advocated for Distributism, a third-way economic theory promoting widespread property ownership.

5 Interesting Facts about Hilaire Belloc

1. Hilaire Belloc was a dual citizen of France and England and served in the French artillery during his military service.

2. He was known for his prodigious memory and could recite long passages of poetry and prose from memory.

3. Belloc wrote over 150 books in his lifetime, covering a wide range of subjects from travel and military history to economics and children’s literature.

4. He was a devout Catholic and his faith profoundly influenced his writings, often addressing themes of religion and morality.

5. Belloc had a distinctive style of debating and public speaking, often characterized by his wit and sharpness, making him a well-known figure in Edwardian intellectual circles.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hilaire Belloc

1. “When I am dead, I hope it may be said: ‘His sins were scarlet, but his books were read.’”

2. “The microbe is so very small: You cannot make him out at all.”

3. “Loss and possession, death and life are one, There falls no shadow where there shines no sun.”

4. “Just as there is no loss of basic energy in the universe, so no thought or action is without its effects, present or ultimate, seen or unseen, felt or unfelt.”

5. “Every major question in history is a religious question. It has more effect in molding life than nationalism or a common language.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hilaire Belloc’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but he achieved significant financial success through his extensive publications and speaking engagements.