Lead: Samuel Johnson, England’s great man of letters and author of the first important English dictionary, helped organize and define the language that comes as close as any to the universal language, was born three hundred years ago. Intro.: A Moment in Time with Dan Roberts. Content: In London, and Johnson’s hometown of Lichfield as well as in universities and societies throughout the world, celebrations, conferences, lectures and festivities throughout the year have celebrated the life and works of the father of the English dictionary…known to his contemporaries simply as “Dr. Johnson.” Loading... Taking too long? Reload document | Open in new tab Download Share