Samuel Smiles

Samuel Smiles (1812–1904) was a Scottish author and reformer who is predominantly acclaimed for his promotion of self-help and individual responsibility, characteristics that were central to Victorian morals and Liberalism. Born in Haddington, East Lothian, Smiles pursued a career in medicine but eventually turned towards journalism and writing, fervently articulating his philosophies on societal progress through personal endeavor. He is most noted for his 1859 book, 'Self-Help; with Illustrations of Character and Conduct,' which expounded the virtues of thrift and self-improvement, exerting an extensive influence in its era and becoming a bestseller. Yet, another considerable contribution Smiles made to literature was through his 'Lives of the Engineers' published initially in volumes during the 1860s, chronicling the biographies of significant figures in the engineering field such as George and Robert Stephenson, and James Watt. This work was a testament to Smiles's narrative prowess, adeptly marrying historical facts with engaging personal stories, thus rendering technical subjects captivating to a general audience. The book underscored the importance of industrial and technological advances, as well as the individual genius and indefatigable spirit of the engineers who propelled society forward. Smiles's literary style combined empirical data with a narrative flair, and his writings did not just narrate lives but posited role models for the emerging middle class. His works continue to be referenced for their historical value and their insights into the nature of Victorian society and the ethos of self-improvement that characterized it.