History's True Gents

The term, 'gentleman' has changed it's meaning over the years...

Historically, the term meant that you were born into nobility, whereas over the years the meaning has changed. It could refer to someone who has good manners, is a sharp dresser, who never tells, who smokes a pipe, who has a moustache, who owns a country mansion, who holds doors open or who pays for the drinks. It's become harder to pin down exactly who or what classes as a true gentleman these days.

Here at Hawkins, we think there are a few great examples of, not quite who you would expect, as our top historic gents:

Muhammad Ali

A ducker, a diver, but not a whealer or dealer. A poet when talking and in motion when fighting. Who else could have gotten away with saying, 'I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was.'

Benjamin Guggenheim

Admittedly not one that springs to mind, but this billionaire was on-board the Titanic when it sank. After helping rescue women and children, dressed into his finest evening wear and along with his valet, they were last seen seated in deck chairs, smoking cigars and drinking brandy.

Sir Frances Drake

Obviously Sir Francis is known for this sailing but what we love about him was the awesome collars that he rocked. No one quite wore a ruffle like Sir Francis.

Mahatma Gandhi

This man led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. He was true to his cause, encouraged nonviolence, was a vegetarian and lived simply. What a gent.

And lastly, Jean Henry Durant

The founder of the Red Cross after seeing thousands of soliders killing each other back in 1859. He created a plan to help the sick and wounded on the battlefield regardless of which side they were on. A true gent who also sported a rather excellent beard.

Photo Credit Links:

Sir Frances Drake
Benjamin Guggenheim
Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali Cover
Mahatma Gandhi
Jean Henry Durant