Henry James (biographer) facts for kids

Henry James III (born May 18, 1879 – died December 13, 1947) was an American writer. He won a special award called the Pulitzer Prize in 1931. People described him as delightful and humorous. He was the son of a famous thinker, William James, and the nephew of the well-known writer Henry James.

Growing Up and Education

Henry James III was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on May 18, 1879. His father was William James, a famous philosopher and psychologist. His mother was Alice Gibbons James.

Henry came from a very interesting family. His grandfather was Henry James Sr., a well-known religious writer. His aunt was Alice James, who kept a detailed diary. His uncle was the famous novelist Henry James, who sometimes called him "Harry."

Henry went to Harvard University, one of the best schools in the U.S. He earned his first degree there in 1899. Later, he studied law at Harvard Law School and finished in 1904. He also received special honorary degrees from other colleges.

His Career and Work

After finishing law school, Henry James III worked as a lawyer in Boston. He practiced law from 1906 until 1912. Then, he took on a new role. He became the business manager for the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research. He worked there until 1917.

During World War I, Henry helped with war relief efforts. He was part of the Rockefeller Foundation's War Relief Commission. He also served as a soldier in the 89th Infantry Division. Later, he became a lieutenant.

From 1918 to 1919, Henry was part of an important group. This group met at the Versailles Peace Conference. They worked to set the peace terms after World War I ended. He also led the Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association from 1928 until he passed away. He spent 12 years helping to oversee Harvard University.

Writing Achievements

Henry James III was a talented writer. He wrote several books, mostly biographies. Biographies are books about someone's life.

In 1923, he published Richard Olney and His Public Service. This book was about Richard Olney, who was a U.S. Secretary of State. His most famous book was Charles W. Eliot, President of Harvard University, 1869-1901. This biography, published in 1930, was about Charles W. Eliot, a long-time president of Harvard. This book won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1931. Henry also helped edit The Letters of William James in 1921. This book shared letters written by his father.

Personal Life

On June 11, 1917, Henry James III married Olivia Cutting. Her father was a wealthy financier named William Bayard Cutting. Henry and Olivia later divorced in 1930.

In 1938, he married Dorothea Draper Bladgen. Dorothea was the sister of the famous actress Ruth Draper. She was also the granddaughter of Charles Anderson Dana, who served as Assistant Secretary of War under President Lincoln.

Henry James III passed away on December 13, 1947. He died at his home in New York City. A memorial service was held for him at Grace Church in Manhattan.