Tony Giffard, 3rd Earl of Halsbury facts for kids

John Anthony Hardinge Giffard (born June 4, 1908, died January 14, 2000) was a British scientist. He was also known as the 3rd Earl of Halsbury. He held a special title called "peer" and worked independently in the British Parliament. He became the Earl of Halsbury in 1943.

Early Life and Learning

John Giffard went to two important schools. First, he attended Ludgrove School. There, one of his teachers sparked his interest in studying stars and space, called astronomy. Later, he went to Eton College, a famous school. He did very well at Eton. He was a leader in his house, which is like a dorm. He also rowed in the school's top boat team. He was even chosen for a special group of student leaders called "Pop."

His Work and Achievements

Leading Research and Development

John Giffard had an important career. From 1949 to 1959, he was the Managing Director of the National Research Development Corporation. This organization helped turn new inventions into useful products. Before that, from 1947 to 1949, he was the Director of Research for the Decca Record Company. He also worked for companies like Lever Brothers and Brown-Firth Research Laboratories.

Helping with Money and Education

John Giffard served on many public groups. He led a committee from 1961 to 1963 that looked into changing British money to a decimal system. This means using tens, like our modern money. From 1966 to 1997, he was the Chancellor of Brunel University. This is a high-ranking role, like being the head of the university.

Computers and Psychology

He was also the President of the British Computer Society from 1969 to 1970. In 1970, he received a special award. He was given an Honorary Fellowship from the British Psychological Society.

A Friend of Tolkien

John Giffard was a friend of the famous author J. R. R. Tolkien. Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. John Giffard was one of the very few people who got to read another of Tolkien's books, The Silmarillion, while Tolkien was still alive. He read it in 1957.

Family Connection to the Titanic

His grandmother was Lady Duff-Gordon. She was a famous fashion designer from the Edwardian era. She was also known by her professional name, Lucile. Lady Duff-Gordon was a survivor of the famous RMS Titanic ship disaster.