10 Remarkable Alumni from the University of Cambridge
- Little Gull
- Oct 18, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 23, 2023

The University of Cambridge, one of the world's most prestigious institutions, has a rich history of nurturing exceptional minds. Its alumni have left an indelible mark on various fields, from science and literature to politics and the arts. Let's delve into the stories of 10 of the most renowned individuals who once walked the hallowed halls of Cambridge.
Isaac Newton: Widely regarded as the father of modern science, Isaac Newton spent a significant part of his life at Cambridge. He is celebrated for his groundbreaking work on universal gravitation and the laws of motion, which laid the foundation for physics and astronomy.
Charles Darwin: Another Cambridge luminary, Charles Darwin, studied theology and natural sciences at the university. His revolutionary work, "On the Origin of Species," introduced the theory of evolution by natural selection, reshaping our understanding of biology.
Stephen Hawking: Despite battling ALS, Stephen Hawking became a renowned theoretical physicist during his time at Cambridge. His book "A Brief History of Time" simplified complex cosmological concepts, making them accessible to the general public.
Emma Thompson: An accomplished actress and screenwriter, Emma Thompson pursued her studies in English literature at Cambridge's Newnham College. She has received numerous awards, including Oscars and Golden Globes, for her outstanding performances and writing.
Stephen Fry: Stephen Fry, a multi-talented actor, writer, and comedian, attended Queens' College at Cambridge. He co-founded the famous Cambridge Footlights drama club and has made significant contributions to literature and entertainment.
Alan Turing: Alan Turing, a mathematics scholar at King's College, played a pivotal role in the development of computer science. His work on code-breaking during World War II and the concept of the Turing machine laid the groundwork for modern computing.
Emma Thompson: Emma Thompson, a distinguished actress and screenwriter, studied English literature at Cambridge. She has received numerous awards, including Oscars and Golden Globes, for her exceptional performances and writing.
Sylvia Plath: The renowned American poet and novelist Sylvia Plath studied at Newnham College, Cambridge, as a Fulbright Scholar. Her acclaimed works include "The Bell Jar" and a collection of poems, "Ariel."
John Maynard Keynes: Often referred to as the father of modern economics, John Maynard Keynes, an alumnus of King's College, is known for his influential theories on government intervention during economic crises.
E.M. Forster: E.M. Forster, a prominent novelist known for classics like "A Passage to India" and "Howards End," attended King's College, Cambridge. His literary contributions have had a lasting impact on English literature.
These remarkable individuals exemplify the University of Cambridge's tradition of nurturing brilliance. Their groundbreaking contributions to science, literature, and various other fields continue to shape our world and inspire generations of scholars. Cambridge's legacy of excellence is undoubtedly reflected in the achievements of its distinguished alumni.
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