### Biography of Paul Johnson
#### 1. Early Life
Paul Johnson was born on November 2, 1928, in Manchester, England. Growing up in a middle-class family, his father was an artist, and his mother was a teacher, which provided him with a rich cultural and intellectual environment from a young age. Johnson attended the Jesuit independent school Stonyhurst College, where he developed a keen interest in history and writing. He later went on to study at the University of Oxford, where he honed his skills and solidified his passion for writing and research. His early experiences and education played a crucial role in shaping his future career as a historian and journalist.
#### 2. Career
Paul Johnson's career began as a journalist after graduating from Oxford. He initially worked for the `Paris Review`, which allowed him to interact with various writers and intellectuals, further influencing his career path. In 1955, he returned to England and joined the staff of the `New Statesman`, a prominent British political and cultural magazine. Johnson's insightful and often controversial articles quickly gained attention, and he rose to become the editor in 1965.
During his tenure at the `New Statesman`, Johnson became known for his provocative opinions and his shift from left-wing to more conservative viewpoints, which sparked both admiration and criticism. After his departure in 1970, Johnson focused on writing books and continued to contribute to various newspapers and magazines, including the `Daily Mail` and `The Spectator`.
Johnson's work as an author was prolific, encompassing a wide range of topics from history and religion to politics and biography. His notable works include "Modern Times: The World from the Twenties to the Nineties," "A History of the Jews," "Intellectuals," and "A History of the English People."
#### 3. Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Paul Johnson distinguished himself with several notable achievements. His ability to narrate complex historical and cultural events in an accessible and engaging manner won him a broad readership. "Modern Times," published in 1983, is particularly acclaimed for its comprehensive analysis of the 20th century, presenting a perspective that challenges traditional narratives.
Johnson was also recognized for his contributions to journalism and literature with multiple awards. In 2006, he was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President
George-WBush, acknowledging his influence on political thought and history. His other awards include the Golden Pen Award for a lifetime's distinguished service to literature.
#### 4. Personal Life
Paul Johnson was married to
Marigold-Hunt, a professional psychotherapist, in 1958. Together, they had three children, who inherited their parents' intellectual vigor. Johnson was known for his devout Catholic faith, which influenced much of his writing and personal philosophy. He often discussed the intersection of religion and history, advocating for moral responsibility and ethical leadership.
Outside of his professional life, Johnson enjoyed painting and music, hobbies that he attributed to his father’s artistic influence. He was known among friends and family for his wit and his ability to recount historical anecdotes with personal insights.
Paul Johnson passed away on January 12, 2023, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain’s most influential conservative thinkers and historians. His works continue to be read and studied by those interested in a multifaceted view of history and culture.