William Winwood Reade

Date of Birth: December 26, 1838

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: April 24, 1875

Biography

William Winwood Reade was a British historian, explorer, and philosopher, born on December 26, 1838, in Perthshire, Scotland. He is best known for his works on African exploration and his controversial views on religion and human progress. Reade was the nephew of the novelist Charles Reade, which perhaps influenced his literary pursuits. He studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, but did not graduate. Reade’s travels in Africa were extensive, and he documented his experiences in several books, including “Savage Africa” (1863) and “The Martyrdom of Man” (1872). The latter is considered his most significant work, offering a secular view of human history and progress that was quite controversial at the time. The book influenced notable figures such as H.G. Wells and Charles Darwin. Reade’s work often challenged the conventional religious and social norms of his era, advocating for a rational and scientific approach to understanding humanity’s past and future. He passed away on April 24, 1875, in London, England, at the relatively young age of 36.

5 Interesting Facts about William Winwood Reade

1. Winwood Reade was deeply influenced by the scientific advancements and theories of his time, particularly Darwin’s theory of evolution.

2. His book “The Martyrdom of Man” was banned in several countries for its controversial views on religion and human history.

3. Reade was a member of the Royal Geographical Society and contributed significantly to the exploration of West Africa.

4. He was known for his skepticism and criticism of organized religion, which he saw as an impediment to human progress.

5. Reade’s works gained renewed interest in the 20th century as early examples of secular humanist thought.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Winwood Reade

1. “Man has passed through four stages: the Age of Ignorance, the Age of Faith, the Age of Reason, and the Age of Science.”

2. “The power of religion has been gradually shrinking and is now restricted to the nursery.”

3. “Science is the great antidote to the poison of enthusiasm and superstition.”

4. “Every religion is good that teaches man to be good; and I know of none that instructs him to be bad.”

5. “The history of the world is the history of a constant struggle between the forces of good and evil, ignorance and knowledge.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There are no records indicating that Winwood Reade amassed significant wealth during his lifetime. His net worth was modest, primarily derived from his literary and exploratory endeavors.