George Johnson (priest) facts for kids

George Henry Sacheverell Johnson (born 1808, died 1881) was an important British scholar. He was a clergyman, which means he worked for the church. He also taught at the famous University of Oxford. He even became the Dean of Wells, a high position in the church.

George Johnson's Early Life and Education

George Johnson began his studies at The Queen's College, Oxford. He was a very bright student. He won several special awards called scholarships. These included a college scholarship, the Ireland scholarship, and a university scholarship for mathematics.

He officially joined the university in 1825 when he was 17 years old. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1829. He did so well that he received a "first-class degree," which is the highest honor. Later, in 1833, he earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree. From 1829 to 1855, he was a Fellow at his college. This meant he was a senior member of the college, often involved in teaching and research.

Johnson's Career as a Professor and Church Leader

In 1834, George Johnson became a priest in the Church of England. Four years later, in 1838, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very respected group of scientists.

In 1839, he became the Savilian Professor of Astronomy at Oxford. This was a teaching position focused on astronomy. However, he wasn't an expert in astronomy. Because of this, the role of professor was separated from the job of Radcliffe Observer. The Radcliffe Observer was in charge of the university's observatory.

Changing Roles and Advocating for Change

Johnson changed his teaching role in 1842. He became the White's Professor of Moral Philosophy. He held this position for three years. He believed that Oxford University and its colleges needed to be updated. He pushed for many changes and reforms.

His ideas for reform were not always popular. He thought this might have stopped him from becoming the head of his college, called the Provost. However, he was still chosen to be a commissioner. This meant he helped carry out the changes under the Oxford University Act 1854.

Dean of Wells and Later Life

In 1854, Johnson was appointed Dean of Wells. This is a senior role in the church, overseeing Wells Cathedral. While he was Dean, there was a disagreement. He decided to also take a parish position in Wells. He did this to earn more money. This decision was not very popular.

George Johnson also wrote several books. In 1835, he published Optical Investigations. He also published a book of sermons in 1857. A sermon is a speech given in church. He also wrote Science and Natural Religion: a Sermon, which was printed twice.

In 1836, he made history. He was one of the first two external examiners in the UK. He helped grade the final exams for students at the University of Durham.