Charles Ansell facts for kids
Charles James Ansell (born December 8, 1794 – died 1881) was a very important British expert who worked with numbers and risks, called an actuary. He spent most of his life helping insurance companies understand how to plan for the future. He was known as "the father of his profession" because of his groundbreaking work.
Quick facts for kids
Charles Ansell
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| Born | 8 December 1794 Paddington, Middlesex, England
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| Died | 14 December 1881 (aged 87) Brighton, Sussex, England
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| Citizenship | British |
Early Career and Achievements
Charles Ansell started working at a young age. In 1808, when he was just 14 years old, he joined the Atlas Fire and Life Assurance Company. This company helped people prepare for unexpected events like fires or for their future.
Ansell stayed with Atlas for a very long time, over 56 years! Even after he officially retired in 1864, he continued to advise the company. He moved up in his job, and by 1823, he became the main actuary for the company's life insurance part.
He also worked with other important companies like National Provident and Friends' Provident. In 1834, he was recognized for his smart work and became a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a special honor for top scientists and thinkers.
Important Writings and Advice
In 1835, Charles Ansell wrote a very important book called A Treatise On Friendly Societies. This book was published by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, which aimed to share information with everyone.
His book gathered lots of facts about the health and how long people lived, especially the working class in England. Experts say it was one of the first serious studies of its kind. This book helped make him famous and led to him being called "the father of his profession."
Because he was so good with numbers and planning, Charles Ansell sometimes advised the British government, including Parliament. In 1864, a very important politician named William Ewart Gladstone said Ansell was "one of the most eminent authorities among actuaries." This means he was one of the best and most respected experts in his field.
Later in his life, he also served as a Deputy Lieutenant for an area called Merionethshire, which is a ceremonial role.
Later Life and Family Legacy
Charles Ansell passed away on December 14, 1881, when he was 87 years old. He was buried in Brighton cemetery.
His important work continued through his family. His oldest son, also named Charles Ansell, followed in his footsteps. He became an actuary for National Provident and worked there for over 30 years. He even wrote his own book in 1874 called On the Rate of Mortality.
Later, in 1885, one of Ansell's grandchildren, Hubert Ansell, also became a member of the Institute of Actuaries. This shows how Charles Ansell's passion for understanding numbers and planning for the future inspired his family for generations.
