John Lubbock
Early Life and Education
John Lubbock was born on April 30, 1834, in London, England. He was the eldest son of Sir John William Lubbock, a prominent banker and astronomer. Lubbock was educated at Eton, one of England's most prestigious schools, where he developed a keen interest in natural history and archaeology.
Career
Lubbock began his career in his father's bank, where he gained valuable experience in finance and business. However, his true passion lay in the sciences, particularly in archaeology and biology. He made significant contributions to both fields, including the discovery of several prehistoric tools and the study of insect behavior.
In 1870, Lubbock entered politics, serving as a member of the British Parliament for Maidstone until 1880 and then for London University until his death. He was known for his advocacy of education reform and was instrumental in the passage of the Bank Holidays Act of 1871, which established public holidays in the UK.
Contributions to Science
Lubbock's scientific work was marked by a meticulous approach and a deep curiosity about the natural world. His studies of ants, bees, and wasps helped to lay the foundation for the field of ethology, the scientific study of animal behavior.
His archaeological work was equally significant. He coined the terms "Palaeolithic" and "Neolithic" to denote the Old and New Stone Ages, respectively. These terms are still used today in the field of archaeology.
Personal Life and Legacy
Lubbock married Ellen Frances Horden in 1856, and they had three sons and two daughters. He was known for his love of nature and his belief in the importance of leisure time for personal development.
Lubbock died on May 28, 1913, leaving behind a legacy of scientific discovery and public service. His contributions to archaeology and ethology continue to be recognized by scholars in these fields.