Lady Katie Magnus

Born in Portsmouth on May 2, 1844, Katie Magnus, Lady Magnus, was a British Jewish author and communal worker. She married Sir Philip Magnus and became known for writing on Jewish history, religion, and family life in a style meant to be accessible to general readers, especially the young.

Her best-known work was Outlines of Jewish History, a book that was widely used for teaching and helped introduce generations of readers to Jewish history. She also wrote other books and stories on Jewish themes, building a reputation as a thoughtful popular writer rather than an academic specialist.

Alongside her writing, she was active in communal and charitable work. Sources connect her with the Berkeley Street Synagogue, the Jews' Deaf and Dumb Home, and the Jewish Girls' Club, showing how closely her public service and literary interests were linked. She died in March 1924.