The diplomat John Bowring, born in Exeter in 1792, served as the fourth Governor of Hong Kong from 1854 to 1859. An accomplished polyglot who spoke German, Italian, Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Dutch, he navigated a career spanning literature, economics, journalism, and politics before his death in his home city in 1872.
Early Career and Bentham
Bowring spent his youth in the family wool business after completing his education in Moretonhampstead. By the 1810s, he gained commercial experience as a clerk at Milford & Co., where he developed his linguistic skills while providing supplies during the Peninsular War. Following the 1818 incorporation of Bowring & Co., he formed a lasting connection with Jeremy Bentham. After his business ventures failed in 1827, he relied on the support of his mentor, eventually becoming Bentham’s literary executor and overseeing the production of an eleven-volume collection of his works in 1843.
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In 1825, Bowring became the editor of the Westminster Review, using the platform to promote free trade and parliamentary reform. His expertise in national accounting systems led to government commissions investigating commercial relations in the Netherlands and France. He served multiple terms in the British Parliament, representing Kilmarnock Burghs from 1835 to 1837, followed by Bolton from 1841 to 1847 and 1847 to 1849. Throughout these years, he authored extensive economic reports covering regions including Egypt, Syria, Italy, Switzerland, and Imperial Germany.
Diplomatic Service
Bowring’s diplomatic career included his significant tenure as Governor of Hong Kong and his role as an emissary to Siam. On 18 April 1855, he finalized a treaty of amity with the Kingdom of Siam, which became known as the Bowring Treaty. This agreement remained in effect for 70 years. Later, in 1861, he was appointed as a British commissioner to the newly formed Kingdom of Italy. His contributions were recognized by several institutions, including the Royal Society, the Royal Geographical Society, and the American Antiquarian Society.
Fast facts
- Born: 1792, Exeter
- Died: 1872, Exeter
- Governor of Hong Kong: 1854-1859
- Member of Parliament: 1835-1837, 1841-1847, 1847-1849
- Award: Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath
- Languages known: German, Italian, Spanish, English, Portuguese, Dutch
- Notable work: Bowring Treaty (1855)
- Burial site: Exeter Higher Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was the Bowring Treaty?
It was a treaty of amity between Britain and the Kingdom of Siam, signed by John Bowring on 18 April 1855, which remained effective for 70 years.
Which languages did John Bowring speak?
He was a polyglot proficient in German, Italian, Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Dutch.
Achievements
- Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath
