author
John H. (John Henry) Haaren
1855–1916
Best remembered for lively history books written for young readers, this New York educator helped make big subjects feel clear, human, and memorable. His works on Greece, Rome, the Middle Ages, and modern history remained popular long after his lifetime.
1 Audiobook
Famous Men of the Middle Ages
by John H. (John Henry) Haaren, Addison B. Poland
About the author
Born in New York City in 1855, John Henry Haaren was an American educator and historian. He studied at Columbia University under Nicholas Murray Butler and spent much of his career in New York public education.
Haaren is especially known for writing accessible history books for younger readers, often in collaboration with Addison B. Poland. Among the best known are Famous Men of Greece, Famous Men of Rome, Famous Men of the Middle Ages, and Famous Men of Modern Times, books that aimed to introduce major people and events through short, readable sketches.
He also served as an educational leader in New York, including work as an associate superintendent of schools. Remembered as both a teacher and a writer, he combined classroom experience with a gift for straightforward storytelling.