William John Bankes

Country

Great Britain

Birth - Death

1786 - 1855

Occupation

Explorer

Description

Explorer and adventurer in the Near East and Egypt. Instrumental in the discovery of how to decipher the hieroglyphics. Also discovered the Philae obelisk. Was a Tory Member of Parliament for several districts. Served as aide-de-camp for the Duke of Wellington. However, was forced into exile late in life due to the discovery of his homosexual tendancies, and particularly after being caught in a compromising situation in Green Park with a guardsman. The Duke of Wellington supported him and continued to celebrate his enormous accomplishments. Many of his discoveries continue to be displayed at Kingston Lacey, his home in England.