Cyril Philips facts for kids

Sir Cyril Henry Philips was a famous British historian and a leader in education. He was born in Worcester, England, on December 27, 1912. He passed away on December 29, 2005, in Swanage. He was even made a knight in 1974, which means he was given the title "Sir" for his important work.

Early Life and Education

Cyril Philips spent some of his childhood in Bihar, India, during the 1920s. His father worked there as a train driver. He went to Rock Ferry High School for his early education. In 1931, he started studying history at the University of Liverpool. He was a brilliant student and graduated in 1934 with top honors. Later, he continued his studies at the School of Oriental Studies in London. There, he wrote a detailed history paper about the East India Company. This paper was published as a book in 1940.

A Distinguished Career

Serving During Wartime

During the Second World War, Cyril Philips joined the Royal Army Educational Corps. This part of the army helped soldiers continue their education. He rose through the ranks and finished the war as a lieutenant colonel.

Leading at SOAS

After the war, he joined the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London. He quickly became a professor and the head of the history department. In 1956, he became the director of SOAS. He worked hard to improve the school, making many positive changes over the years.

University Leadership

From 1972 to 1976, Sir Cyril Philips was the vice-chancellor of the University of London. This is a very important leadership role in a university. During his time, he worked on some changes to the university system.

See also

• List of Vice-Chancellors of the University of London