About Lord Chesterfield
Lord Chesterfield, born Philip Dormer Stanhope in 1694, was a British statesman, diplomat, and writer best known for his influential letters to his son, which offered guidance on etiquette, social skills, and the art of living well. A prominent figure in 18th-century British society, he served as the Secretary of State for the Southern Department and spent much of his life in the diplomatic service, including notable postings in The Hague and Vienna. His wit and focus on manners embodied the ideals of the Enlightenment, making him a significant figure in the development of modern concepts of civility and personal conduct.