Edward Creasy

Sir Edward Shepherd Creasy (born Bexley, 12 September 1812 – died London, 17 January 1878) was an English historian, jurist, and judge, best known for his popular historical work The Fifteen Decisive Battles of The World: From Marathon to Waterloo (published 1851). His writings combined scholarly narrative with an accessible style, securing him a wide readership in the Victorian era.

Early life and education

Creasy was born in Bexley, Kent, the son of a land agent. He was educated at Eton College and went on to King’s College, Cambridge, where he distinguished himself in classical studies and later became a fellow. He was called to the bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1837.

Academic career

In 1840, Creasy was appointed Professor of History at University College London. During his tenure he gained a reputation as an engaging lecturer, drawing large audiences with vivid and often dramatic accounts of historical events.

The Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World

Creasy’s most celebrated work, The Fifteen Decisive Battles of The World: From Marathon to Waterloo, first appeared in 1851. In it he identified fifteen military engagements which, in his view, decisively shaped the course of world history. The book was widely read in Britain and abroad, frequently reprinted, and became a staple for both academic and general readers. Its focus on military turning points reflected contemporary Victorian interests in progress, empire, and the shaping of civilizations through conflict.

Judicial career in Ceylon

In 1860 Creasy accepted appointment as Chief Justice of Ceylon (the colony now known as Sri Lanka). He served in this capacity until 1875. His judicial work reflected a strong grounding in English common law and an active interest in questions of colonial governance and local administration.

Later life and death

After returning to England in 1875 Creasy continued to write and lecture, though his health declined. He died in London on 17 January 1878, aged 65.

Legacy

Creasy’s reputation rests largely on The Fifteen Decisive Battles of The World: From Marathon to Waterloo. While later historians have critiqued his emphasis on military and Western turning points, the book remains a notable example of mid-19th century historical writing and influenced both military historians and general readers well into the 20th century.

Selected works

• The Fifteen Decisive Battles of The World: From Marathon to Waterloo (1851)
• History of the Ottoman Turks: From the Beginning of Their Empire to the Present Time (1854)
• The Rise and Progress of the English Constitution (1856)
• History of England, from the Earliest Times to the Close of the Middle Ages (published 1869–1870)

Timeline

1812 — 12 September

Born in Bexley, Kent.

1820s

Educated at Eton College.

1830s

Studied at King’s College, Cambridge; became a fellow.

1837

Called to the bar at Lincoln’s Inn.

1840

Appointed Professor of History at University College London.

1851

Published The Fifteen Decisive Battles of The World: From Marathon to Waterloo.

1854

Published History of the Ottoman Turks.

1856

Published The Rise and Progress of the English Constitution.

1860

Appointed Chief Justice of Ceylon (modern Sri Lanka).

1869–1870

Published History of England, from the Earliest Times to the Close of the Middle Ages.

1875

Retired from judicial service in Ceylon and returned to England.

1878 — 17 January

Died in London.