Mark Hopkins

Date of Birth: February 4, 1802

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: June 17, 1887

Biography

Mark Hopkins was an influential American educator and theologian born on February 4, 1802, in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. He is best known for his long tenure as the President of Williams College, where he had a profound impact on the institution and its students. Hopkins graduated from Williams College in 1824 and later earned a medical degree from the Berkshire Medical College. However, his passion for education led him back to Williams College, where he served as a professor of Moral Philosophy and Rhetoric before becoming the president of the college in 1836, a position he held until 1872. Hopkins was a deeply religious man, and his teachings often intertwined moral philosophy with Christian ethics. His book “Lectures on Moral Science” became a staple in American colleges and contributed significantly to his reputation as a moral philosopher. He was also a member of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, reflecting his commitment to spreading Christian values. Throughout his career, Hopkins was known for his personal approach to teaching, focusing more on the individual student’s development rather than rote learning. His educational philosophy has been summarized by the famous quote, “The best education is that which is given by one man to another, sitting together on a log; but if that is not available, a good book is the next best.” He passed away on June 17, 1887, leaving behind a legacy as one of America’s most respected educators of the 19th century.

5 Interesting Facts about Mark Hopkins

1. Mark Hopkins served as President of Williams College for 36 years, from 1836 to 1872.

2. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Harvard University in 1857.

3. Hopkins was a strong advocate for the liberal arts education, believing it was essential for developing moral and intellectual faculties.

4. His book “Lectures on Moral Science” was widely used in American colleges and universities during the 19th century.

5. Hopkins Hall, a significant building on the Williams College campus, is named in his honor.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mark Hopkins

1. “The best education is that which is given by one man to another, sitting together on a log.”

2. “No man can be truly free whose liberty is not limited by the law of God.”

3. “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

4. “Our business is to be good men, not merely to learn.”

5. “Character is the aim of true education; and science, history, and literature are but means used to this end.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Mark Hopkins was an educator and president of a college in the 19th century, so he did not accumulate significant personal wealth. His net worth would have been modest, typical of an academic of his time.

Children

Mark Hopkins had several children, but specific details about them are not well-documented in historical records. His family life was relatively private compared to his public career.