Green, John Richard (1837–1883)

English historian. In 1874 he published his Short History of the English People, a brilliant picture of the social and economic evolution of English life. In 1882 he wrote The Making of England, and in 1883 began The Conquest of England which his wife finished after his death.

He was born at Oxford, England, and was educated at Magdalen College School and at Jesus College, where he won an open scholarship. In 1860 he took holy orders. He studied history, and wrote frequently for the Saturday Review. His views on the teachings of the Church of England changed, and he retired from the church and accepted the post of librarian at Lambeth. He then devoted himself entirely to history.