Birth

The founder of Empiricism, John Locke was born on 29th August, 1632 at Wrington in Somerset. He was the son of John Locke Sr, an attorney and a small landowner, and Agnes Locke. John Locke Sr served as captain in the parliamentary army during the Civil War. As a child, Locke was raised in a restrained, bookish environment. His father was stern and taciturn in nature. As the future philosopher came of age, he found a friend in his father. The views of John Locke Sr on every aspect of life are reflected in his philosophy.

Education

However, the political unrest did not affect John’s education. Interesting circumstances paved path for a great mind to florish and develop. At the end of the Civil War, Colonel Popham of parliamentary army wanted to reward his captain in his own way. He selected to help him in a way that perhaps the entire mankind should be thankgul to him for his help. He was in position to nominate names for some distinguished foundations. Colonel Popham suggested name of young John Locke for the renowned Westminster School. The 15 year old boy entered Westminster School in 1647 and remained there for six years. However, he could not live there as a boarder as the school allowed only King's Scholars as boarders. It took about three years for John to enter the league and become a King's Scholar in 1650. The ‘minor’ election as it was called, could lead to a ‘major’ election to a scholarship at Christ Church, Oxford, or Trinity College, Cambridge. Other geniuses like John Dryden and Joseph Williamson were his contemporaries at Westminster. It was during his second year at Westminster School, that King Charles I was beheaded nearby at Whitehall.