Allan Octavian Hume

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A O Hume

Allan Octavian Hume
Born6 June 1829
Died31 July 1912
NationalityBritish
OccupationCivil servant, political reformer, ornithologist
Known forFounding member of the Indian National Congress


Allan Octavian Hume (6 June 1829 – 31 July 1912) was a British civil servant, political reformer, and ornithologist in British India. He is best known as one of the founders of the Indian National Congress (INC), a pivotal organization in the Indian independence movement.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Hume was born in Montrose, Angus, Scotland, to Joseph Hume, a radical Member of Parliament. He was educated at Haileybury and Imperial Service College and later at the University of Edinburgh.

Career in India[edit | edit source]

Hume joined the Indian Civil Service in 1849 and was posted to the North-Western Provinces. He served in various capacities, including as a magistrate and collector. His administrative skills and reformist zeal earned him a reputation as an efficient and fair officer.

Political Reforms[edit | edit source]

Hume was deeply concerned about the plight of the Indian populace under British rule. He advocated for political reforms and greater Indian participation in governance. In 1885, he played a crucial role in the formation of the Indian National Congress, which aimed to provide a platform for Indians to voice their grievances and aspirations.

Contributions to Ornithology[edit | edit source]

Hume was also a passionate ornithologist and is often referred to as the "Father of Indian Ornithology." He collected and documented numerous species of birds in India, contributing significantly to the field. His extensive collection of bird specimens was later donated to the Natural History Museum, London.

Later Life and Legacy[edit | edit source]

After retiring from the Indian Civil Service in 1882, Hume returned to England. He continued to be involved in political and social causes until his death in 1912. Hume's legacy endures through his contributions to both Indian political reform and ornithology.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD