Jonathan Swift's Milestones

Jonathan Swift was an Anglo-Irish satirist and clergyman, author of Gulliver's Travels and A Modest Proposal, whose sharp wit critiqued society, politics, and human nature.
1667

Father's death

His father died before he was born, leaving the family in financial difficulty.

Family January 1, 1667

Birth

Jonathan Swift was born in Dublin, Ireland, to Jonathan Swift Sr. and Abigail Erick.

Family November 30, 1667
1674

Educated at Kilkenny College

Attended Kilkenny College, one of Ireland's best schools.

Education January 1, 1674 - January 1, 1682
1682

Trinity College Dublin

Studied at Trinity College, Dublin, earning a BA degree.

Education January 1, 1682 - January 1, 1686
1689

Secretary to Sir William Temple

Worked as secretary and assistant to Sir William Temple in England.

Career January 1, 1689 - January 1, 1699
1695

Ordained as Anglican priest

Ordained as a priest in the Church of Ireland.

Career January 1, 1695
1696

Relationship with Esther Johnson (Stella)

Formed a close and lifelong relationship with Esther Johnson, known as 'Stella.'

Relationship January 1, 1696 - January 28, 1728
1704

Published 'A Tale of a Tub'

Published 'A Tale of a Tub,' establishing his reputation as a satirist.

Achievement January 1, 1704
1710

Political pamphleteering

Wrote influential political pamphlets for the Tory government.

Other January 1, 1710 - January 1, 1714
1713

Appointed Dean of St Patrick's Cathedral

Appointed Dean of St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin.

Career January 13, 1713
1726

Published 'Gulliver's Travels'

Published 'Gulliver's Travels,' his most famous satirical work.

Achievement October 28, 1726
1729

Published 'A Modest Proposal'

Published the satirical essay 'A Modest Proposal.'

Achievement April 1, 1729
1738

Health decline

Suffered from illness and mental decline in his final years.

Other January 1, 1738 - October 19, 1745
1745

Death

Jonathan Swift died in Dublin, Ireland.

Other October 19, 1745