Samuel E. Morison

Date of Birth: July 9, 1887

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: May 15, 1976

Biography

Samuel Eliot Morison was a renowned American historian, born on July 9, 1887, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was a prolific author, dedicated educator, and a naval officer. Morison is best known for his extensive works on maritime history and his biography of Christopher Columbus. He graduated from Harvard University in 1908 and later became a professor there, where he influenced many students and scholars with his engaging lectures and writings. Morison’s most notable works include the multi-volume “History of United States Naval Operations in World War II,” which provided an authoritative and vivid account of the United States Navy’s role in the conflict. His biography “Admiral of the Ocean Sea: A Life of Christopher Columbus” won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 1943. Morison’s writing was characterized by its narrative style, thorough research, and his ability to bring historical events to life. In addition to his academic career, Morison served as a commissioned officer in the United States Naval Reserve during World War II, where he achieved the rank of Rear Admiral. This experience provided him with firsthand knowledge that he incorporated into his historical writings. Morison passed away on May 15, 1976, leaving behind a legacy of scholarly work that continues to be highly regarded in the field of history.

5 Interesting Facts about Samuel E. Morison

1. Samuel E. Morison won two Pulitzer Prizes during his career.

2. He sailed over 55,000 nautical miles to gather material for his naval history works.

3. Morison was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964.

4. He was a descendant of the prominent Boston Brahmin family.

5. Morison was a vocal advocate for the preservation of historical sites and maritime heritage.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Samuel E. Morison

1. “A historian should not be merely a chronicler of events, but a narrator who brings history to life.”

2. “Historical knowledge is not a matter of remembering events, but of understanding their significance.”

3. “The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.”

4. “The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge.”

5. “The study of history is the best medicine for a sick mind.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Samuel E. Morison’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, reflecting his successful academic and writing career.