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Thomas Hobson
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Thomas Hobson
THOMAS HOBSON English Liveryman at Cambridge. He was the sourse of the expression Hobsons Choice. Date: 1544 - 1630
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Media ID 14279810
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1544 1630 Cambridge Cape Choice Expression Hobson Ruff
EDITORS COMMENTS
Thomas Hobson: The Man Behind the Expression 'Hobson's Choice' This image depicts Thomas Hobson, an English Liveryman from Cambridge, in the late 16th century. Born around 1544 and passing away around 1630, Hobson is best known as the originator of the well-known expression 'Hobson's Choice.' Thomas Hobson was a significant figure in Cambridge, owning a stable business where he rented horses to students and scholars. His stable was located near St. Mary's Church, and he was known for offering his customers only the best horse for their journey, giving them no alternative but to choose the one he considered most suitable. This practice was referred to as 'Hobson's Choice,' which eventually evolved into the modern-day idiom meaning 'no choice at all, but a forced one between two unpalatable alternatives.' In this photograph, Hobson is depicted wearing a cape and a ruff, typical attire for the time. His beard, neatly trimmed, frames his face, and his serious expression conveys a sense of determination and authority. The image offers a glimpse into the past, providing a tangible connection to the history of the English language and the origins of a commonly used expression. Thomas Hobson's legacy extends beyond his stable business and the expression he lent his name to. His life serves as a reminder of the power of language and the enduring impact of everyday practices on the English language. This photograph is not only a beautiful piece of historical art but also a testament to the rich and fascinating history of Cambridge and its people.
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