Sir John Cecil Masterman, (1891–1977), was a son of Captain John Masterman and he was originally destined to follow his father's footsteps. Masterman spent five years as a naval cadet but dropped out as he felt unsuited for a military career. Instead he pursued academic interests and in 1909 was elected for a scholarship in modern history at Worcester College, Oxford; academic life became his lifelong devotion.
Masterman was a dedicated sportsman and played cricket, lawn tennis and hockey for England in international matches.
His literary works were often inspired by his Oxford life and historical pursuits.