James William Gilbart facts for kids
James William Gilbart (1794–1863) was an English banker and writer. He helped shape how banks work today.
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James Gilbart's Life and Work
James Gilbart was born in 1794. He became a very important person in the world of banking in England. He spent most of his life working in banks, writing about them, and being part of important groups.
His Banking Career
From 1833 to 1859, Gilbart was the General Manager of the London and Westminster Bank. This was one of the first banks in England that was owned by many people, not just one person or family. These are called joint-stock banks. As General Manager, he was in charge of running the bank every day.
His Important Books
Gilbart wrote many books about banking. His most famous book was called Practical Treatise on Banking, first published in 1827. He kept updating this book over the years. His ideas helped to make British banks much better and more organized.
His work also helped create the modern retail bank. These are the banks where everyday people keep their money and get loans. He also influenced the start of the Building Society movement, which helps people save money to buy homes.
The Word "Cheque"
Did you know that James Gilbart helped to make the spelling of the word cheque (like a bank cheque) standard? He used this spelling in his book Practical Treatise on Banking. Later, this spelling became official in laws. Some people think the spelling came from notes used by goldsmiths in London a long time ago.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1846, James Gilbart was made a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a special honor given to people who have done great things in science or knowledge.
He never got married. He focused his life on his work in banking, his writing, and the societies he belonged to. Gilbart passed away in 1863 at his home in London. He is buried in a special tomb at West Norwood Cemetery. This tomb is a beautiful old building designed by an architect named Sir William Tite.
