J. N. L. Baker

John Norman Leonard Baker (generally known as J. N. L. B.; 12 December 1893 – 16 December 1971) was a geographer associated with Jesus College, Oxford for nearly sixty years.

Biography Born in Liverpool, Baker studied at Liverpool College from 1911 to 1913 before entering Jesus College as an exhibitioner in 1913, where he read Modern History. His undergraduate career was interrupted by the First World War, during which he was wounded on the Somme. He married Phyllis Hancock in 1917 whilst convalescing. He then spent two years in the Indian Army (1918–19). He returned to Oxford and completed his history degree in 1920 before switching to geography (an interest in which had been prompted by his service in India). He obtained the diploma in geography (with distinction) in 1921 and a B.Litt. in 1922. He was also a member of the Hakluyt Society from 1924 onwards, serving as president between 1955 and 1960.

Baker was also an active member in the civic affairs of Oxford, drawing on his abilities as a bursar for matters of city finance and on his geographical knowledge for matters of town planning.