Sir William Temple Quotes
A collection of quotes by Sir William Temple.
Sir William Temple was a prominent English statesman and diplomat in the 17th century. He was born on April 25, 1628, in London, England, into a distinguished family. Educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, Temple initially embarked on a legal career. However, his passion for politics and diplomacy soon became apparent.
Temple served as a diplomat in various European countries, including the Netherlands and Sweden, during the reign of King Charles II. He played a significant role in negotiating the Treaty of Dover in 1670, which formed an alliance between England and France against the Dutch Republic during the Franco-Dutch War.
Throughout his career, Temple advocated for the balance of power and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. He was known for his diplomatic skills and his ability to negotiate complex treaties, earning him a reputation as one of England's foremost diplomats.
Aside from his political career, Temple was a prolific writer, contributing to various literary genres, including essays and memoirs. One of his notable works is "Memoirs of What Past in Christendom from the War Begun 1672 to the Peace Concluded 1679." Temple's writings often focused on political and philosophical themes, reflecting his intellectual pursuits.
Sir William Temple retired from active politics in 1681, settling in his grand estate, Moor Park, in Surrey. There, he dedicated his time to writing and gardening. His extensive garden designs at Moor Park became renowned, inspiring later landscape architects.
Sir William Temple passed away on January 27, 1699, leaving behind a legacy as a skilled diplomat, influential writer, and lover of gardens.
