Isaac Watts (1674-1748)
* Known for: His vast collection of hymns, including "O God, Our Help in Ages Past," "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," and "Joy to the World."
* Contribution: Introduced a new style of hymn writing, emphasizing clear language and biblical themes.
Charles Wesley (1707-1788)
* Known for: His passionate and devotional hymns, including "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling," and "Jesus, Lover of My Soul."
* Contribution: His hymns became central to Methodist worship and influenced the development of evangelical hymnody.
John Newton (1725-1807)
* Known for: His deeply personal and often autobiographical hymns, including "Amazing Grace," "How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds," and "The Lord My Shepherd Is."
* Contribution: His hymns reflected his personal journey from slavery to faith and inspired countless others.
Other notable English hymn writers:
* John Henry Newman (1801-1890)
* Frederick William Faber (1814-1863)
* Henry Francis Lyte (1793-1847)
* Horatio Bonar (1808-1889)
* William Cowper (1731-1800)
* John Keble (1792-1866)
Ultimately, the "greatest" English hymn writer is a matter of personal opinion. Each of these writers made significant contributions to the tradition of English hymnody, and their works continue to inspire and uplift people today.