Blackerby Fairfax facts for kids
Blackerby Fairfax (who was active around 1728) was an English doctor.
He was known for writing books about science, politics, and philosophy.
About His Life
Blackerby Fairfax was the son of Nathaniel Fairfax. He went to school at Woodbridge School and then studied at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. At Cambridge, he earned two degrees: a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in 1689 and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in 1693. Later, in 1728, he received his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree.
After Cambridge, he continued his medical studies at the university of Leyden in the Netherlands. He officially became a Doctor of Medicine there on April 18, 1696. Blackerby Fairfax then worked as a doctor for the navy, helping sailors stay healthy. He retired from the navy by 1717.
His Writings
Blackerby Fairfax wrote several books that showed his wide interests in science and how society worked. Here are some of his notable works:
- (anon.) A Discourse upon the Uniting Scotland with England: This book, published in 1702, talked about the benefits of joining Scotland and England. This union eventually happened in 1707, creating Great Britain.
- In Laudem Botanices Oratio (On the Praise of Botany): Published in 1717, this book was written in both Latin and English. It was a speech praising botany, which is the study of plants. Fairfax also suggested creating a special lecture series about botany.
- Oratio Apologetica pro Re Herbaria contra Medicos Mathematicos (A Speech for the Use of Botany against Mathematical Doctors): In this 1718 book, also in Latin and English, Fairfax argued for the importance of botany in medicine. He believed that understanding plants was crucial for doctors, especially when some doctors were focusing too much on mathematics instead of natural remedies.
- A Treatise of the Just Interest of the Kings of England, in their free disposing power: This book from 1703 discussed the power of the King of England. It explored how much power the king should have to make decisions, especially concerning laws. Fairfax added his own thoughts to this discussion.
- The Letter which Pope Gregory XV wrote to Charles I of England: This work included a letter from Pope Gregory XV to King Charles I of England. The letter was about King Charles's marriage plans with a Spanish princess. Fairfax also included the King's reply.
