The Victorian Era: People of Consequence

Cecil Rhodes

An extraordinary entrepreneur, highly involved in colonialism and the drive to establish business in Africa in particular.  He was responsible for "Rhodes Across Africa"- the concept of creating a railway system that made it from Egypt to South Africa.  He claimed much land in the name of the Queen, and much in his own name: Rhodesia and the Rhode Islands are examples.  He was also actively involved in the diamond business in South Africa, and for a tim dominated the diamond market for decades.

Rudyard Kipling

The Jungle Book.  Enough Said.

Florence Nightingale

Nightingale was a breakthrough in terms of the status of influential women in history.  Rather than focusing on the usual female roles: the teacher, the governess, the wife and housekeeper; Nightingale became a beacon of inspiration in the eyes of women throughout the country.  She was a healer; one who served diligently and was respected a great deal for it.

Queen Victoria

God Bless the Queen!  Victoria, famous for her words, "We are not amused!" was certainly a hard one to please!  She was strict- almost gave Queen Elizabeth I a run for her money!  She was incredibly influential: aware and involved in the running of her country.  Involved in politics and an active participant in society.  She was devoted to her family: her husband Albert and her children.  The couple reigned as equals, at least in her sight: it was clear she valued the bonds of family.  When Albert died, Vicky went into a depression, and reigned alone as a somber widow.  She is perhaps most influential in the way that she led by example: she was a strong female leader, oriented toward encouraging education, which she pushed on women, and in her family.  I might suggest that her influence stuck mainly in the upper classes: she tended to turn a blind eye to a lot of problems involving urbanization and poverty.

Charles Darwin

Scientist and philosopher who changed the face of intellectual thought and reasoning.  His ideas were widely threatening, especially when considering the strong religious connotation of Victorian society.  Darwin argued that all species of life evolved from a common ancestor through what he called natural selection.  Huge controversy surrounded the theory: and still does today.  Darwin is a prime example of individual thought: thought that could be strongly supported considering advances in technology.

Charles Dickens

His works remain to be British Literary classics, inflicting in his literature a sense of moral understanding and philosophy that supports the existence and supremacy of God.  Dickens was a family man: dedicated to teach those around him in a manner that celebrated human relationships and the goodness in them.