 Notable former students of the college have included politicians , scientists , writers , entertainers and academics . T. E. Lawrence ( " Lawrence of Arabia " ) , known for his part in the Arab Revolt of 1916 – 1918 and for his writings including Seven Pillars of Wisdom , studied history at the college . His thesis on Crusader castles ( the fieldwork for which marked the beginning of his fascination with the Middle East ) is held in the Fellows ' Library . Other former students include Pixley ka Isaka Seme ( a founder and president of the African National Congress ) , Sir William Williams ( Speaker of the House of Commons 1680 – 1685 ) , and Lord Sankey ( Lord Chancellor 1929 – 1935 ) . Members of Parliament from the three main political parties in the United Kingdom have attended the college , as have politicians from Australia ( Neal Blewett ) , New Zealand ( Harold Rushworth ) , Sri Lanka ( Lalith Athulathmudali ) and the United States ( Heather Wilson ) . 
