Thomas Bodley
English diplomat and scholar, Bodleian Library

Born
March 2nd, 1545
480 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1613
412 years ago — 67 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
England
Links & References
An English diplomat and scholar, established the Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford. This library became one of the most important research libraries in the world. Bodley was educated at Merton College, Oxford, and initially served as a diplomat, representing England in various missions. After a period of travel in Europe, he returned to Oxford with the intent of revitalizing the library there after it fell into disrepair following the dissolution of the monasteries. The Bodleian Library opened its doors in 1602, providing access to valuable texts and manuscripts and setting a precedent for library collections in higher education.
Founded the Bodleian Library in 1602
Served as an English diplomat
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