Joseph Planta (politician)

Joseph Planta (born circa 1744, died December 3, 1827) was a Swiss-British librarian, translator, and diplomat. While not a politician in the traditional sense of holding elected office, his extensive service as Principal Librarian of the British Museum (1799-1827) and his connections within government and aristocratic circles placed him in a position of considerable influence.

Born in Castasegna, Switzerland, Planta was brought to England as a child by his father, also named Joseph Planta, who became a minister of the German Reformed Church in London and later an assistant librarian at the British Museum. The younger Joseph Planta followed in his father's footsteps, joining the British Museum's staff in 1773 as an assistant librarian in the Department of Manuscripts. He rose through the ranks, becoming Keeper of the Manuscripts in 1782 and finally Principal Librarian (the equivalent of director) in 1799, a position he held until his death.

As Principal Librarian, Planta oversaw a period of significant growth and development for the British Museum. He was responsible for managing the museum's expanding collections and overseeing its operations. He was instrumental in the acquisition of important collections, including the Townley Marbles. Planta was also a skilled linguist and translator, producing numerous translations and catalogues of the Museum's holdings. His work contributed significantly to the scholarly accessibility of the museum's resources.

Beyond his library work, Planta maintained connections with prominent figures in British society and government, giving him a role in advising on matters related to foreign affairs and diplomacy. He was recognized for his knowledge of European languages and cultures.