Theodore Dwight Woolsey (1801–89) was an American educator, scholar, and Yale University president, known for contributions to classical studies, political science, and international law. His leadership modernized Yale’s curriculum and expanded its academic influence.
Born in New York City, Woolsey graduated valedictorian from Yale College (1820.) He studied law in Philadelphia and theology at Princeton before traveling to Europe for advanced Greek studies. In 1831, he became Yale’s first professor of Greek, introducing German scholarship methods to American academia.
As Yale’s president (1846–71,) he oversaw the creation of the Scientific School and the School of Fine Arts, the awarding of the first American PhD (1861,) and the reorganization of governance.
His notable publications include Introduction to the Study of International Law (1860,) a standard legal reference; Essay on Divorce and Divorce Legislation (1869,) examining marriage laws; and Political Science (1877,) exploring government structures. Other works include Communism and Socialism (1880,) Helpful Thoughts for Young Men (1882,) and editions of Greek classics.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Theodore Dwight Woolsey
It is not money, nor is it mere intellect, that governs the world; it is moral character, and intellect associated with moral excellence.
—Theodore Dwight Woolsey
Topics: Character
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