Fossey John Cobb (F. J. C.) Hearnshaw (31 July 1869 in Birmingham – 10 March 1946) was an English professor of history, specializing in medieval history. He was noted for his conservative interpretation of the past, showing an empire-oriented ideology in defence of hierarchical authority, paternalism, deference, the monarchy, Church, family, nation, status, and place. He was a Tory Democrat who sought to realize Disraeli's goal of preserving invaluable historic traditions while encouraging timely reforms. He believed that a meritocratic, small, effective elite should lead the weaker majority.[1]
Educated at Walsall and Manchester Grammar Schools, he went on to the University of London (MA), Peterhouse, Cambridge, (Historical Scholar, MA and LL.M. 1900[2]), and Trinity College, Dublin (LLD), Cambridge (LittD).[3]
Hearnshaw was an external examiner in history at the University of London 1909-1913; Durham University 1912-1913; the Victoria University of Manchester 1914-1917; the University of Bristol 1921; the University of Wales 1930; professor of history at University College, Southampton, 1900-1910; professor of modern history at the Armstrong College of Durham University, 1910-1912; professor of medieval history at King's College London, 1912-1934; and Fellow of King's College London, 1926.
Hearnshaw also held the posts of honorary secretary of the Royal Historical Society, 1931-1934 and president of the Historical Association, 1936-1938.
