John Allen, the political and historical writer, was born in Colinton, Edinburgh, on 3 February 1771. After his schooling, Allen was apprenticed to an Edinburgh surgeon and in 1791 he became M.D. at Edinburgh University where he lectured on medical topics. He was also very interested in the cause of political reform in Scotland and wrote several pieces for the newly founded Edinburgh review . Allen translated Introduction to the study of the animal economy (1801) earlier written by Georges, Baron Cuvier (1769-1832), but his best known work was an Inquiry into the rise and growth of the Royal Prerogative in England (1830). He also published Vindication of the ancient independence of Scotland (1833). Allen became Warden of Dulwich College in 1811, and Master from 1820. John Allen M.D. died on 10 April 1843.
From the guide to the Lectures of John Allen M.D. (1771-1843), 1796-1797, (Edinburgh University Library)
