Thomas Postlethwaite facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Postlethwaite
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| Born | 1731 Milnthorpe, Westmorland, England
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| Died | 4 May 1798 (aged 66–67) Bath, Somerset, England
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| Nationality | English |
| Alma mater | Trinity College, Cambridge |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Mathematician |
| Institutions | Trinity College, Cambridge |
| Academic advisors | Stephen Whisson |
| Notable students | Thomas Jones |
Thomas Postlethwaite (born 1731 – died 4 May 1798) was an English clergyman and a respected member of Trinity College, Cambridge. He became the head of Trinity College, known as the Master, from 1789 until his death in 1798.
Contents
Who Was Thomas Postlethwaite?
Thomas Postlethwaite was born in 1731 in Milnthorpe, a town in Westmorland, England. His father was Richard Postlethwaite. Thomas went to St Bees School for his early education.
His Time at Cambridge
In 1749, Thomas started studying at Trinity College, Cambridge. He began as a sizar, which meant he received financial help to study. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (BA), in 1753.
Just two years later, in 1755, he became a fellow of Trinity College. A fellow is a senior member of the college, often involved in teaching and research. In 1758, he taught mathematics as a Barnaby lecturer.
Career and Leadership
Thomas Postlethwaite became a clergyman in 1756. From 1774 until he passed away, he served as the Rector of Hamerton. A rector is a priest in charge of a parish.
His career at Cambridge continued to grow. In 1789, he was chosen to be the Master of Trinity College. This was a very important leadership role. Then, in 1791, he also served as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. This meant he was a key leader for the entire university.
Thomas Postlethwaite died in Bath on 4 May 1798. He was buried in the church at Bath Abbey.
A Well-Known Event
Thomas Postlethwaite is often remembered for an event involving a famous Cambridge scholar named Richard Porson. It seems there was a disagreement about Porson's career path. This situation led to Porson losing some of his income.
