Alexander Adam facts for kids
Alexander Adam (born June 24, 1741 – died December 18, 1809) was a Scottish teacher and writer. He was famous for his knowledge of ancient Roman history and culture. He taught many important people in Scotland during his time.
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His Early Life
Alexander Adam was born near Forres, in Moray, Scotland. His father was a farmer. From a young age, Alexander worked very hard on his studies. He loved learning about classical subjects, even though he faced many challenges.
In 1757, he moved to Edinburgh to study at the University of Edinburgh. He lived simply during this time.
Becoming a Headmaster
Alexander Adam became known as a brilliant scholar of ancient languages. This helped him get a job as an assistant at Watson's Hospital. By 1761, he became the headmaster there.
In 1764, he worked as a private tutor for Alexander Kincaid. Mr. Kincaid later became a very important person in Edinburgh. Thanks to his help, Alexander Adam became the Rector of the High School in 1768. He had already been a substitute teacher there.
A Popular Teacher
From then on, Alexander Adam focused completely on his teaching. He also wrote many books about classical literature. He was a very popular and successful teacher. The number of students at his school grew a lot. Many of his students became famous, including:
- Walter Scott, a famous writer
- Lord Brougham, an important politician
- Francis Jeffrey, a well-known judge
Introducing Greek Studies
Alexander Adam also managed to bring the study of ancient Greek into the school's lessons. This was a big achievement. Some people at the university, like Principal William Robertson, were against it. But Alexander Adam succeeded.
In 1780, the University of Edinburgh gave him an honorary degree. This meant he was recognized as a Doctor of Laws.
His Final Years
He spent his last years living at 39 George Square in Edinburgh.
Alexander Adam died after being sick for five days. Even when he was ill, he sometimes thought he was still teaching. His very last words were, "It grows dark, boys, you may go." He is buried close to his home. His grave is in the small graveyard of St. Cuthbert's Chapel of Ease (also known as Buccleuch Parish Church).
His Books
Alexander Adam wrote several important books. Here are some of his most well-known works:
- Principles of Latin and English Grammar (1772): He wrote this book with Andrew Dalzell. It was special because it was written in English, not Latin. This caused some debate at the time.
- Roman Antiquities (1791): This was his most famous book. It was about the history and culture of ancient Rome. Many copies were printed, and it was even translated into German.
- Summary of Geography and History (1794)
- Compendious Dictionary of the Latin Tongue (1805)
He was also working on a much larger Latin dictionary. However, he passed away before he could finish it. The unfinished book is kept in the library of the High School.
His Family
Alexander Adam married Agnes Munro in 1775. Her father was a minister. After Agnes passed away, he married Jean Cosser in 1780. Jean's father worked for the government in Edinburgh.
Alexander Adam's daughter, Agnes, later married a famous chemist named William Prout.
Images for kids
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The grave of Alexander Adam in Edinburgh.
