Thomas Abbt German philosopher and writer. Date of Birth: 25.11.1738 Country: Germany

1. Early Life and Education
2. Academic Career
3. Berlin Connections
4. Travels and Encounters
5. Literary Fame
6. Late Career and Death
7. Posthumous Publication

Early Life and Education

Thomas Abbt was born to a wig-maker in Ulm. After attending gymnasium, he enrolled at the University of Halle in 1756, studying philosophy and mathematics.

Academic Career

In 1760, Abbt became a philosophy professor in Frankfurt an der Oder. He then taught mathematics in Rinteln, and finally both subjects in Berlin from 1761 to 1762.

Berlin Connections

While in Berlin, Abbt became acquainted with Christoph Friedrich Nicolai and his circle. He also befriended Moses Mendelssohn and contributed to Mendelssohn's "Letters on the Newest German Literature" under the pseudonym B.

Travels and Encounters

After spending nearly a year in France, Abbt visited Voltaire in Ferney, near Geneva.

Literary Fame

In 1765, Abbt gained recognition for his publication "On Merit" ("Vom Verdienst") in Berlin.

Late Career and Death

The same year, Abbt became a court counselor to Count Wilhelm of Schaumburg-Lippe and the patronus scholarum of the county. He died shortly after from hemorrhoids.

Posthumous Publication

After Abbt's death, his works were published by K. F. Nicolai in six volumes, titled "Vermischten Werke" (1768-81).