Life Summary: Born to Reverend Lancelot Addison and educated at The Charterhouse School, he later attended Queen's College in Oxford. He held various government positions, and begin multiple newspapers with long time friend, Richard Steele. He married Lady Warwick and became Secretary of State. Addison died in London.
Major Works: Contributions to many newspapers, including the Spectator, The Tatler, and The Freeholder. He wrote Cato, a Tragedy, and The Drummer.
Place in Life/Social Context: Addison's education and political activity elevated him in society. His career made his writings more prolific, and his marriage to a Countess raised his social status.
18th Century Lit. Importance: Addison is best known for his essays on a variety of topics, from fashion and etiquette to political activism of citizens. These contributions helped to shape the pamphlet as a form of reading, especially within the coffeehouses of England.