Sydney Smith

Sydney Smith (1771–1845) was an English Anglican cleric, writer, and essayist, known for his wit and influential journalism. Educated at Winchester College and New College, Oxford, he took holy orders and served in a series of church posts, including as rector of Foston-le-Clay in Yorkshire. Smith was a founding contributor to the *Edinburgh Review* (established in 1802), where his lively essays helped shape early nineteenth-century political and literary debate. He later became a canon of St Paul’s Cathedral. His published writings include collections of sermons and essays, and he remains remembered for his sharp, humane commentary on public affairs.