Jeremy Bentham

NAME Jeremy Bentham

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Jeremy Bentham is famous for being a philosopher, social reformer, and legal theorist. He is considered one of the founders of modern utilitarianism.

BIRTH Jeremy Bentham was born on February 15, 1748, in Houndsditch, London, England.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Bentham was from a wealthy and influential family who supported the Tory party. His father, Jeremiah Bentham, was a successful attorney, and his mother, Alicia Grove, came from a family of merchants. His family life reflected a mix of Enlightenment rationalism and religious piety.

CHILDHOOD Jeremy Bentham grew up in a privileged household. Considered a prodigy, he received an education at home before attending Westminster School. He was groomed for a legal career

EDUCATION Jeremy Bentham was practically spoon-fed learning from day one. By the time he could wobble on his chubby legs, there he was, knee-deep in a massive history of England at his dad's desk. Latin followed at the ripe old age of three, and then, just to show off, he waltzed into Oxford at the tender age of twelve.

Bentham studied Queen's College, Oxford. where he excelled academically. He later studied law at Lincoln's Inn and was called to the bar in 1769.

CAREER RECORD Although qualified as a lawyer,  Bentham didn't practice. Instead, he set his sights on ripping the whole legal system apart and rebuilding it from the ground up, along with a shiny new theory of law and morality for good measure. He started by churning out short works bursting with his ideas, like a legal reform happy meal.

Bentham focused on philosophical and reformist writings. He advocated for social and legal reforms based on utilitarian principles, aiming to maximize happiness and minimize suffering.

APPEARANCE Bentham was described as having a plain and unassuming appearance, often seen in simple clothing. He was likely of average height with a round face.

Portrait of Jeremy Bentham by Thomas Fyre

FASHION Bentham's attire was conventional for his time, reflecting his focus on intellectual and academic pursuits rather than fashion.

Notably, he wore a distinctive round hat.

CHARACTER Bentham was known for his sharp intellect, rationality, and dedication to social improvement through legal and ethical reforms. He could be critical and impatient with those who disagreed with him.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Bentham had a dry and analytical sense of humor, often employing wit in his philosophical writings. He sometimes used satire to make his points.

RELATIONSHIPS Bentham never married and had no children

He had close friendships with other intellectuals and reformers, including James Mill and John Stuart Mill, who were influenced by his ideas.

MONEY AND FAME Although born into wealth, Bentham used his resources to support his intellectual pursuits rather than seeking riches.

He achieved fame within philosophical and reform circles, but wasn't widely known by the general public.

FOOD AND DRINK Bentham's lifestyle was modest, and he focused more on intellectual pursuits than culinary interests.

MUSIC AND ARTS Bentham had a limited interest in music and the arts, preferring academic and philosophical endeavors.

LITERATURE An avid reader, Bentham was influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and David Hume. Their focus on reason, empiricism, and individual rights greatly shaped his own philosophical ideas.

Bentham was a prolific writer, producing numerous books, articles, and pamphlets advocating for utilitarian reform. His most famous works include A Fragment on Government (1776) and An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation (1780). He argued in the latter that the proper objective of all conduct and legislation is "the greatest happiness of the greatest number."

NATURE While not a prominent theme in his writings, Bentham valued rational inquiry and scientific observation.

Bentham owned a cat called Langbourne who he fed on macaroni. Over time, Langbourne's name became The Reverend Sir John Langbourne, D.D. (Doctor of Divinity). 

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Bentham's primary interests were in philosophy, law, and social reform, leaving little time for recreational hobbies or sports.

Bentham called his a favorite walking stick ‘Dapple’.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Bentham had a keen interest in science and mathematics, applying empirical methods to his philosophical investigations.

One of Bentham's big contributions was the "felicific calculus" – basically a way to weigh up pleasures and pains with a handy calculator (or at least that was the idea). This would then help figure out laws that made the most people happy, the greatest number and all that. Sure, some folks poked fun at its lack of precision, but Bentham countered that it was a work in progress, not a magic happiness formula.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY The founder of modern utilitarianism, which emphasizes the importance of maximizing happiness and minimizing suffering in ethical decision-making.

He challenged traditional religious authority and advocated for a secular society.

SCANDAL Bentham's life was relatively scandal-free, focused instead on intellectual pursuits and social reform.

MILITARY RECORD Bentham did not have a military career but dedicated his life to legal and philosophical pursuits.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Bentham's health was generally robust, allowing him to pursue his intellectual work until his later years. He continued to write up to a month before his death.

HOMES Bentham lived most of his life in Westminster, London, England. His home, known as Queen Square Place, became a center of intellectual activity.

Bentham designed the house himself, incorporating features that reflected his utilitarian principles, such as maximizing efficiency and natural light.

The Panopticon is a type of institutional building designed by Bentham.  Imagine a prison where the inmates could never tell if they were being watched, always feeling those watchful eyes. That's the Panopticon. Bentham spent ages dreaming up the design, but the government wasn't buying it. Still, it's a clever idea, even if it is a bit creepy. Think CCTV cameras everywhere – that's the Panopticon principle in action, according to some social critics.

Elevation, section and plan of Bentham's panopticon prison, drawn by Willey Reveley in 1791

TRAVEL Bentham himself did not travel extensively. However, his ideas traveled far and wide.

His writings on utilitarianism and legal reform influenced political and social movements throughout Europe and the Americas. The United States Declaration of Independence, for instance, echoes some of Bentham's ideas on individual rights and the pursuit of happiness.

DEATH Bentham died on June 6, 1832 aged 84 at his residence in Queen Square Place.

Bentham wasn't exactly shy about what should happen to him after he shuffled off this mortal coil.  His body was to be dissected and preserved, with the skeleton eventually assembled and displayed in a seated position, clothed in his usual attire at University College London. A bit out there, sure, but hey, to each their own.

And so it came to pass. There he sits, Bentham's skeleton, all dressed up with a wax head (the real one got mummified), in a glass case at UCL. He even gets to attend important university meetings – though whether he has much to say is another matter.

Bentham's head did have a bit of an adventure in 1975. Some pranksters from rival King's College nicked it, but thankfully, they returned it unharmed after a small ransom of £10 was paid to the homeless charity, Shelter. Just another day in the wild world of Jeremy Bentham.

Below is Bentham's auto-icon in a new display case at University College London's Student Centre in 2020.

By Philip Stevens - Own work,Wikipedia

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Bentham's preserved skeleton at University College London is a unique and enduring media presence.

His writings continue to be studied and debated by scholars and philosophers.

There have also been occasional documentaries and biographies exploring his life and ideas.

ACHIEVEMENTS Bentham's founding of modern utilitarianism remains a cornerstone of ethical and political thought.

His ideas on legal and social reform significantly impacted 19th-century society, influencing everything from prison design to the expansion of voting rights.

E. F. Benson

NAME: E. F. Benson (Edward Frederic Benson),  He was always known as Fred.

WHAT FAMOUS FOR: E. F. Benson was a renowned English writer known for his humorous and satirical novels, particularly the "Mapp and Lucia" series.

BIRTH: Edward Frederic Benson was born on July 24, 1867, in Wellington College, Berkshire, England.

FAMILY BACKGROUND: Benson came from a distinguished literary and academic family. His father was the headmaster of Wellington College, and his siblings included the writer and Egyptologist, Margaret Benson, and the author and scholar, Arthur Christopher Benson.

Edward White Benson, was later Archbishop of Canterbury for 13 years and devised the Nine Lessons And Carols Christmas service that's now used worldwide.

His mother Mary Sidgwick Benson (nicknamed Minnie), was a brilliant woman once described as "the cleverest woman in Europe" by Prime Minister William Gladstone.

Arthur Benson, wrote the lyrics to Elgar's "Land Of Hope And Glory" in 1902.

Robert Hugh Benson, was an English Catholic priest and  author of several novels and Roman Catholic apologetic works. 

The Benson brothers

CHILDHOOD: Growing up in a scholarly environment, Benson was exposed to literature and learning from a young age. He witnessed his father's strict demeanor and his mother's eventual mental breakdown.

EDUCATION: He attended Marlborough College and later studied at King's College, Cambridge, where he developed his literary skills. Benson was a member of the prestigious Pitt Club at Cambridge.

CAREER RECORD: E. F. Benson's career as a writer was prolific and diverse. He wrote novels, biographies, and ghost stories, but he is best remembered for his humorous and observant novels set in small English towns. Here's his resume; 

Began writing while still a student, publishing his first book, Sketches from Marlborough, at a young age.

Achieved early success with his novel Dodo (1893), a satirical social commentary.

Authored nearly 100 books throughout his career, including biographies of Queen Victoria, William Gladstone, and William II of Germany.

Became an honorary fellow of Magdalene College, Cambridge, later in life.

APPEARANCE: Benson was described as a tall and elegant figure, often impeccably dressed in the fashion of his time.

E.F. Benson

FASHION: Being a man of refined tastes, Benson likely adhered to the fashion norms of his era, favoring formal and tailored attire.

CHARACTER: Benson was known for his wit, charm, and sociability. He had a keen eye for social nuances and human behavior, which he often incorporated into his writing.

SENSE OF HUMOUR: Benson's writing is characterized by its sharp wit and clever satire, particularly evident in his Mapp and Lucia series.

RELATIONSHIPS: Benson had a close relationship with his family, especially his brother A. C. Benson, with whom he collaborated on several literary projects.

He had close friendships with literary figures and members of high society, including Oscar Wilde and Margot Asquith.

Benson was an intensely discreet homosexual. He never married and had no children.

MONEY AND FAME: Benson achieved financial success through his writing, allowing him to live a comfortable life.

He enjoyed a degree of fame as a popular author, but not necessarily the level of celebrity sought by some.

FOOD AND DRINK: Benson enjoyed good food and drink, which often featured prominently in his novels, adding to the social and domestic settings.

MUSIC AND ARTS: He had an appreciation for the arts and cultural life, which influenced the settings and characters in his novels.

LITERATURE: As a prolific author, Benson contributed significantly to English literature, particularly through his humorous and keenly observed novels.

Benson churned out books like a one-man printing press – nearly 100 of them in his lifetime!  He wasn't fussy about genre, either, bouncing between hilarious social satires, spooky ghost stories, biographies of important folks (like Queen Victoria, no less), and even spilling the beans on his own life.

But Benson's real claim to fame is the "Mapp and Lucia" series. These novels are side-splitting chronicles of social climbing set in a fictional English seaside town.  Think "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" with a healthy dose of Jane Austen, and you're on the right track. Benson mercilessly poked fun at the upper classes, using his razor-sharp wit to expose their ridiculous antics and desperate attempts to outdo one another.

Of course, there's more to Benson than just Mapp and Lucia. He wrote stacks of other cracking novels, like Dodo and Mrs. Ames, that showed his talent for storytelling went way beyond satire. And he wasn't afraid to dabble in non-fiction either. He tackled biographies of bigwigs and even wrote a bit of history on the side, including a look at Athens, just to prove he wasn't all jokes and seaside squabbles.

NATURE: Benson had an affinity for the English countryside, often depicting its landscapes and seasons vividly in his writing.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS: Benson enjoyed gardening and traveling, both of which provided inspiration for his writing.

SCIENCE AND MATHS: While not primarily focused on science or mathematics in his work, Benson's writing often reflected a keen interest in human behavior and social dynamics.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: Benson's work occasionally touched on philosophical and spiritual themes, but his primary focus was on satire and social commentary.

SCANDAL: There are no notable scandals associated with Benson's personal or professional life.

HOMES: Benson didn't settle in one place for too long. He lived in various locations throughout England, including London and Rye (where he served as mayor).

In London, Benson lived at 395 Oxford Street, W1, where much of the action of Lucia in London occurs. 

He spent time in other locations like Rye, in East Sussex, seeking inspiration and enjoying the change of scenery. Below is Lamb House, home of E. F. Benson and model for "Mallards" in the Lucia series

Photographed by Elizabeth B. Thomsen Wikipedia

TRAVEL: Benson traveled extensively, which provided him with material for his writing and enriched his observations of society.

DEATH: E. F. Benson passed away on February 29, 1940, in London, England, aged 72. 

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA: His novels, particularly the "Mapp and Lucia" series, continue to be enjoyed by readers worldwide. Their comedic brilliance and timeless social commentary ensure their continued relevance.

Several of Benson's novels have been adapted for film and television, further extending his reach to new audiences.

ACHIEVEMENTS: E. F. Benson's enduring legacy lies in his witty and insightful portrayal of English society, particularly in the "Mapp and Lucia" series, which remains beloved by readers for its humor and keen observations of human nature. His contribution to English literature continues to be celebrated for its enduring charm and entertainment value.

St. Benedict of Nursia

NAME Saint Benedict of Nursia

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Benedict of Nursia is famous for founding the Benedictine Order and establishing the influential Rule of Saint Benedict, which became a foundational guide for Western monasticism.

BIRTH Benedict of Nursia was born around the year 480 AD in Nursia (modern-day Norcia), Umbria, about 85 miles north east of Rome. 

FAMILY BACKGROUND Young Ben was born into a distinguished Christian noble family who loved each other tenderly. All we know of his father was that he was a Roman noble.

He had a twin sister named Scholastica.

CHILDHOOD A pious and virtuous child, Ben's boyhood was spent in Rome, where he lived with his parents and attended the schools until he had reached his higher studies.

EDUCATION Ben was educated at home before being sent to Rome to study. Once there, the sight of the disorderliness of his fellow students made him fear they would influence him to turn to sin. He fled without completing his studies to the mountains (as one does).

CAREER RECORD After leaving his studies, Benedict pursued a life of solitary contemplation and eventually founded several monasteries, including the famous Monte Cassino Abbey. Here's his resume.

500 After retiring to the mountains at the (we're guessing here) the age of 20, Benedict took up an apartment (a cave actually) for several years during which he gained a following.

503 Stories of Benedict's virtues reached some monks at a monastery in the neighbourhood Their abbot having recently died, the community came to Benedict and begged him to become their boss. Benedict later gathered 12 small communities in the Aniane valley to devote to a life of prayer.

529 Benedict established his first monastery, the source of the Benedictine Order at Monte Cassino, a rocky hill about 80 miles southeast of Rome.

Benedict emphasised the role of manual labor as a God-given part of human life and a typical day for him was day centred around work, mainly manual labour and teaching, study, private prayer and communal services.

APPEARANCE Benedict is often depicted in religious art with a calm and thoughtful demeanor, dressed in the simple robes of a monk. Pictures of St Benedict show him to be balding. 

Saint Benedict by Hans Memling, Trittico di Benedetto Portinari, San Benedetto

FASHION The Benedictines were also known as "Black Monks" because in Summer they wore black robes and sandals. In Winter they wore woollen underclothes and fur boots.

Because Benedict never mentioned underpants in his instructions, his followers were not allowed to wear them.

CHARACTER According to the Penguin Dictionary of Saints, Benedict was "Single minded, composed and upright, a man of peace and moderation, practical. A loving father who combined insistence on good discipline with respect for human personality and individual capabilities."

SENSE OF HUMOUR Benedict's life was marked by seriousness and devotion, humor is not a characteristic commonly associated with him. In fact, he was a bit of a sourpuss, and banned all laughter from his monasteries.

RELATIONSHIPS Benedict had as many heirs as hairs-none.

Benedict's beloved twin sister, Scholastica, became a nun and leader of a community for women at Plombariola, about five miles from Benedict's abbey at Monte Cassino. They used to meet up once a year. On the appointed day Scholastica went to Monte Cassino. Benedict came to meet her; they passed some hours together in a guest house of the abbey and ate together, then each went their own way. Scholastica passed away on February 10, 543.

MONEY AND FAME The Benedictines took no vow of poverty. Each monastery was encouraged to be self-supporting.

While journeying on horseback one day, Benedict met a peasant walking along the road," you've got an easy job" said the peasant, "why don't I become a man of prayer. Then I too would be travelling on horseback." "You think praying is easy" replied the Saint". "If you can say one Lords Prayer without any distraction, you can have the horse." "It’s a bargain" said the surprised peasant". Closing his eyes and folding his hands he began to say the Lords Prayer aloud. "Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom..." Suddenly he stopped and looked up "Shall I get the saddle and bridle too" he said...

INTERESTS FOOD AND DRINK Whilst living as a hermit for three years in his cave Benedict had bread lowered to him in a basket attached to a rope by Romanus, a monk living at one of the numerous monasteries nearby.

After founding the Benedictine order Benedict compiled a series of rules by which the Benedictine monks should live by. In his Rule he allocated each monk a pound of bread and two cooked dishes each day, though meat is forbidden.

Benedict wrote practically in his Rule "For the daily meal let there be two cooked dishes so that he who happens not to be able to eat of one may take his meal of the other. Avoid excess-above all things, that no monk shall be overtaken by indigestion."

In his Rule he allocated each monk a nemina (quarter of a litre) of wine each day. Benedict would like to have prohibited wine but he realized it would be an overly controversial measure, so he restricted his demands to banning drunkenness.

MUSIC AND ARTS Benedict valued the importance of sacred music and art in worship, which influenced the Benedictine tradition

Benedict liked paintings to have straight lines as straight lines reach God more easily.

LITERATURE Benedict's Rule became a cornerstone of Christian literature and has been widely studied and revered for its wisdom and practical guidance.

The oldest copy of the Rule of Saint Benedict, from the eighth century

A major contributor to preserving the literature of ancient Greece and Rome, Benedict was one of the first to insist that monks include intellectual labour in their duties and he specified a certain number of hours to be spent each day in the scriptorium.

The Rules of Benedict specified that monks should spend two hours a day reading Holy books.

During the Dark Ages copies of the masterpieces of Roman literature were preserved and recopied in the monasteries of the Benedictine monks.

NATURE Benedict had a deep appreciation for the natural world, seeing it as a reflection of God's glory and a source of spiritual inspiration.

The monks at Vicouano Monastery rebelled against the strict regime Benedict had imposed on them and arranged for poisoned bread to be given to him. However, a raven that daily used to come to him from the next wood, flew forward and tore the piece of bread away from the saint thus saving the life of his master.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Benedict's lifestyle focused on prayer, work, and study rather than leisure activities or sports.

SCIENCE AND MATHS While not known for scientific or mathematical pursuits, Benedict valued the importance of intellectual discipline and order.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY As I mentioned earlier in this Benedict fled to a cave on the face of a cliff in the mountains of Subiaco, disgusted at the vices of Rome. After three years in the cave, the fame of Benedict's virtues reached some monks whose abbot had just died and they insisted that he become his successor. Though Benedict remained in the cave, more and more disciples placed themselves under his guidance. Eventually he established an abbey at Vicovano to house the growing number of his followers. It was the first of twelve monasteries he built for them, each of twelve monks.

About 529 Benedict founded the Monte Cassino abbey on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to the God, Apollo. He established there his Rule of St Benedict, which he composed 15 years earlier. The rule encouraged monks to participate in manual labour and studying, a novel idea at the time, but a monument of wisdom that has survived the centuries. Benedict declared “Idleness is hostile to the soul, and the brethren should be occupied at fixed times in manual labour and at definite hours in religious reading.”

SCANDAL In his earlier monastic days as an abbot in North Italy attempts to impose high standards and his general holiness provoked monks to try to poison him by putting poison in his wine. The glass broke when Benedict, as was his custom, traced the sign of the cross over his drink. They then tried to poison his bread but the aforementioned crow swept in and took the loaf away.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Benedict performed many miracles including reviving a boy crushed to death by a fallen wall.

Benedict's Rule instructed his monks: “Before all things, care must be taken of the sick, so that they may be served in very deed as Christ himself…But let the sick on their part consider that they are being served for God’s honor and not provoke their brethren who are serving them by their unreasonable demands.”

HOMES I know I keep mentioning this, but Benedict fled from Rome to a cave in mountains of Subiaco at the age of 15 disgusted at the vices of city and spent three years in a cave on the face of a cliff in the desert. However in time he found he needed to establish places to house his followers and eventually established 12 monasteries which housed 12 monks each.

Benedict eventually left Subiaco and founded a monastery at Monte Cassino in AD529 on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to the god Apollo. It was so strongly built that weeks of bombardment by the allies during the Second World War could not destroy it. It is now a museum and picture gallery.

Monte Cassino Abbey By Monticiano Wikipedia

DEATH Benedict died on March 21, 547, aged 67 after he'd been taken without warning with a violent fever. The dying Benedict was carried into the chapel at Monte Cassino by his fellow Benedictines where he received communion before he drew his last breath standing erect supported by his disciples.

A few weeks after the death of his beloved sister Scholastica, Benedict had her tomb opened as he wished to be laid to rest beside her.  During the post war restoration of the Abbey at Mount Cassino an urn was discovered which is said to contain the remains of Benedict and Scholastica

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Benedict's life and teachings have been depicted in religious art, literature, and media, highlighting his enduring influence on Western spirituality.

In medieval Christian art, Benedict was generally portrayed with his friendly raven.

ACHIEVEMENTS (1) A Pioneer of monasteries in the West. Benedict's encouragement of monks to participate in manual labour and teaching was novel at the time.

(2) Founder of Benedictine order. After his death Benedictine orders were accepted by all the monks of the west . The Benedictine order was to be the most important order in Europe for many centuries and produced 50 Popes and many cardinals and Archbishops. By the 11th century they existed in great numbers in every country of Western Europe except Ireland. By the reformation there were almost 300 Benedictine monasteries and nunneries in England.

(3) In 1964 Benedict was appointed Patron Saint of Europe , but not the Patron Saint of baldness. His emblems include a broken cup and yep a raven.

Pope Benedict XVI

NAME: Pope Benedict XVI

WHAT FAMOUS FOR: Former Pope of the Roman Catholic Church

BIRTH: He was born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger on April 16, Holy Saturday, 1927 at Schulstraße 11 at 8:30 in the morning in his parents' home in Marktl, Bavaria, Germany.

FAMILY BACKGROUND: He was the son of Joseph Ratzinger, a police officer, and Maria Ratzinger (née Peil). He had an older brother, Georg, who also became a priest.

CHILDHOOD: Raised in a devout Catholic family, young Joseph experienced the challenges of growing up during the tumultuous years of Nazi Germany. He served in the Hitler Youth, which was mandatory for boys his age.

Benedict described his childhood as shaped by faith and music.

EDUCATION: He pursued his education in theology and philosophy, attending several institutions including the Higher School of Philosophy and Theology of Freising and the University of Munich.

CAREER RECORD: Ordained as a priest in 1951, Ratzinger served as a professor of theology at various universities, rising to become Archbishop of Munich and Freising in 1977. Here's his resume:

Professor of Theology at several German universities

Archbishop of Munich and Freising (1977-1982)

Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (1981-2005)

Elected Pope Benedict XVI in 2005

APPEARANCE: Pope Benedict XVI had piercing blue eyes and a thoughtful expression. He was a frail and scholarly figure in later years. 

FASHION: His fashion was characterized by simplicity and adherence to traditional papal garments,  including the white cassock, red shoes, and zucchetto (skullcap).

Benedict XVI during a canonization mass by Kancelaria Prezydenta RP - prezydent.pl, Wikipedia

CHARACTER: Known for his intellectual depth, humility, and commitment to doctrinal orthodoxy, Benedict XVI was often described as reserved and scholarly. He was known for his humility and kindness.

On top of his native German, Benedict could hold his own in French, Italian, English, and Spanish. He even dabbled in Portuguese, Latin, and a few biblical languages for good measure.

SENSE OF HUMOUR: While he maintained a serious demeanor, Pope Benedict XVI was known to appreciate wit and humor in appropriate settings.

RELATIONSHIPS: His most significant relationship was with his brother, Georg Ratzinger, with whom he shared a lifelong bond.

MONEY AND FAME: As Pope, Benedict XVI lived a humble life, focused on spiritual and pastoral responsibilities rather than personal wealth or fame.

FOOD AND DRINK: His diet reportedly consisted of simple Bavarian fare, reflecting his roots.

MUSIC AND ARTS: Pope Benedict XVI had a deep appreciation for classical music and traditional sacred art.

He played the piano and had a preference for Mozart and Bach.

LITERATURE: Benedict wasn't shy about putting pen to paper. He churned out mountains of writing, all in defense of good old-fashioned Catholic traditions, values, and rituals. He started out as a bit of a theological maverick, but by the late 60s, he'd swung firmly into the conservative camp. 

NATURE: He admired the beauty of nature and often emphasized the importance of environmental stewardship.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS: Benedict was known for his love of classical music and reading, he enjoyed playing the piano and spending quiet time in prayer and contemplation.

SCIENCE AND MATHS: While his primary focus was theology, he appreciated the value of scientific inquiry and intellectual rigor.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: By the late 1950s, Ratzinger was already a rockstar theologian, a real heavyweight in the world of religious scholarship. They didn't mess around back then; he snagged a full professorship at the tender age of 31.

For years, he bounced around German universities, a professor of theology leaving minds suitably boggled wherever he went. Then, in 1977, came a surprise promotion – Archbishop of Munich and Freising, a curious choice for someone who hadn't exactly spent his career elbows deep in the everyday hustle of parish life. But hey, the Pope – Paul VI, at the time – clearly saw something special in him.

Five years later, in 1981, Ratzinger landed another bigwig job: Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Now, that's a fancy title for you, basically putting him in charge of making sure Catholic doctrine stayed on the straight and narrow. By 2002, he'd climbed even higher, becoming Dean of the College of Cardinals. By the time he finally reached the top spot, the papacy in 2005, he was already a major player on the Vatican stage, whispering wisdom in John Paul II's ear and shaping the direction of the Church for a good 25 years.

He also had a bit of a thing for aesthetics, this Pope Benedict. He brought back some old-school traditions, like the Tridentine Mass, and even loosened the reins on using Latin again. He saw the Church and the arts as natural pals, and even brought back some classic papal garb, earning himself the nickname "The Pope of Aesthetics."

But all good things must come to an end. In 2013, at a sprightly 86 years old, Benedict surprised everyone by announcing his resignation. He blamed his advancing age and a dwindling supply of mental and physical stamina. It was a big deal – the first papal resignation since the Middle Ages, in fact. He stepped down on February 28th, making way for Pope Francis, and settled into a posh new retirement pad – the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, right there in the Vatican.

One of the most influential Catholic theologians of the 20th century, Benedict XVI emphasized reason, faith, and the importance of tradition. His writings focused on systematic theology, biblical theology, and the Church Fathers.

Benedict sought to defend Catholic doctrine in the face of modern secularism.

SCANDAL: He faced criticism for his handling of child sexual abuse cases during his time as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (1981-2005). Though he took steps to address the issue, some critics felt he did not do enough. This remains a stain on Benedict's legacy.

Benedict's handling of sexual abuse cases within the Catholic Church and opposition to usage of condoms in areas of high HIV transmission led to  criticism from public health officials, anti-AIDS activists, and victim's rights organizations

MILITARY RECORD: Benedict served in a labor unit of the German wartime anti-aircraft corps during World War II. He deserted towards the end of the war. This experience likely influenced his later commitment to peace and reconciliation

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS: In his later years, Benedict XVI faced health challenges, including arthritis and a stroke. Ultimately, declining health was a major factor in his decision to resign the papacy in 2013.

HOMES Benedict lived in various locations throughout Germany during his academic career, including Freising, Bonn, and Munich.

Following his election as Pope in 2005, his primary residence became the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace within the Vatican City.

Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence outside Rome, also served as a temporary home during his papacy.

TRAVEL: Pope Benedict XVI traveled extensively during his pontificate, visiting numerous countries to promote interfaith dialogue and Catholic unity.

Benedict never learned to drive, but was licensed to fly a helicopter.

DEATH: Pope Benedict XVI died on December 31, 2022, at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery within the Vatican City. Millions around the world mourned his passing.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA: He made numerous public appearances during his papacy, addressing global audiences and engaging in dialogue with various religious and cultural leaders.

ACHIEVEMENTS: Pope Benedict XVI's legacy includes his contributions to Catholic theology, his efforts to strengthen interfaith relations, and his commitment to upholding traditional Catholic teachings during a challenging period in the Church's history.

Saul Bellow

NAME Saul Bellow

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Saul Bellow was famous for being a distinguished Canadian-American writer and novelist, known for his richly complex characters and exploration of contemporary urban life.

BIRTH Saul Bellow was born on June 10, 1915, in Lachine, Quebec, Canada.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Bellow was born to Russian Jewish immigrant parents. His father, Abraham Bellows, was a bootlegger, and his mother, Liza (Gordin) Bellows, was a teacher.  He had three elder siblings: Zelda (later Jane), Moishe (later Maurice), and Schmuel (later Samuel).The family later moved to Chicago, Illinois, where Saul grew up.

CHILDHOOD Saul Bellow's childhood was marked by the struggles of immigrant life and the cultural blend of the Jewish community in early 20th century Chicago. He was influenced by Yiddish culture and immersed in the bustling urban environment.

His mother wanted him to become a rabbi or a violinist, but Saul decided to become a writer aged eight when he first read Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin.

EDUCATION He attended the University of Chicago, where he received his bachelor's degree in anthropology and sociology in 1937.

CAREER RECORD Bellow had a successful career as a writer, producing numerous novels and winning several prestigious literary awards, including the Pulitzer Prize, Nobel Prize in Literature, and National Book Award. Here's his resume:

Prolific novelist, publishing acclaimed works like "Henderson the Rain King," "Augie March," and "Herzog."

Briefly involved with the Works Progress Administration (WPA) Writers' Project.

Held teaching positions at various universities throughout his career.

APPEARANCE He was described as having a stocky build, dark hair, and intense eyes. Bellow had a thoughtful and slightly brooding appearance, with a distinctive profile. 

Saul Bellow Flicker

FASHION Bellow favored a classic and understated style, often seen in well-tailored suits.

CHARACTER He was known for being intellectual, introspective, and deeply curious about human nature and society.

Bellow always claimed his character Henderson, the rain king from, well, Henderson the Rain King, was the one most like him.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Bellow had a sharp wit and often infused his writing with dark humor and satire, particularly through his characterizations.

RELATIONSHIPS Saul Bellow's personal life was complex and marked by five marriages. His first wife was Anita Goshkin, whom he married in 1938. The couple had a son together before divorcing in 1943.  His second marriage, to Alexandra Dragoumis in 1944, also ended in divorce in 1953.  Bellow's third wife was Sacher-Masoch Jean Krasa, a marriage that lasted from 1956 to 1961.  His longest marriage was to Mary Ann Friedmann, from 1961 to 1985. They had a daughter together. His fifth and final marriage was to Janis Freedman in 1984, which lasted until his death.  

He had four children: his last wife, Jane, even gave him a surprise baby girl at the ripe old age of 84. Talk about defying expectations!

Despite the multiple marriages, Bellow's relationships were often strained, and he struggled to balance his personal life with his demanding writing career.

His many friends included the journalist Sydney J. Harris and the poet John Berryman. 

MONEY AND FAME Bellow achieved both financial success and critical acclaim during his career, becoming one of the most celebrated American writers of the 20th century. He remained critical of excessive materialism.

FOOD AND DRINK He enjoyed traditional Jewish foods and appreciated fine dining experiences.

MUSIC AND ARTS Bellow had an interest in classical music and modern art, which often influenced his writing.

LITERATURE Bellow was a master of American literature, known for his exploration of existential themes, Jewish identity, and the immigrant experience.

Saul Bellow wasn't exactly a sunshine-and-cocktails kind of guy. His first novel, Dangling Man (1944), was a real downer, all about a young fella stewing in anxiety while waiting to be drafted. Not exactly poolside reading.

But hey, even gloomy gusses gotta lighten up sometimes. In 1948, a fancy grant called a Guggenheim Fellowship whisked Bellow off to Paris. There, amidst the baguettes and berets, he started work on his masterpiece, The Adventures of Augie March (1953). It's a sprawling, funny, sometimes confusing tale of a Jewish kid in Chicago trying to figure out who he is. Think picaresque road trip, but with a lot more pastrami on rye.

Bellow's writing was like a runaway train, careening all over the place but somehow staying on the tracks. It landed him a Pulitzer Prize in 1976 for Humboldt's Gift, and just for good measure, he snagged the Nobel Prize in Literature three months later. France even threw in a Legion of Honor medal, probably because they were impressed by his ability to churn out award-winning novels.

NATURE Although primarily an urban writer, Bellow often explored themes of nature and the human condition in relation to the natural world.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS He had a passion for reading, traveling, and engaging in intellectual conversations.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Bellow had a fascination with science and often incorporated scientific and mathematical concepts into his works.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Bellow was interested in existential philosophy and his writing grappled with philosophical questions about existence, meaning, and the human condition. He explored themes of faith and doubt within a Jewish context.

SCANDAL Bellow was not associated with any major scandals.

MILITARY RECORD He served briefly in the Merchant Marine during World War II. During his service Bellow completed his first novel, Dangling Man (1944) about a young Chicago man waiting to be drafted for the war.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Bellow struggled with health issues later in life but remained intellectually active.

HOMES Bellow wasn't someone who settled in one place for too long. Throughout his life, he resided in various locations. Chicago, where he was raised, remained a constant influence.  He also lived on the East Coast of the United States for extended periods.

TRAVEL Bellow was a well-traveled man.  His journeys were often fueled by research needs for his writing or academic appointments.

As a young man, Bellow traveled to Mexico City to meet Leon Trotsky, but the expatriate Russian revolutionary was assassinated the day before they were to meet.

DEATH Saul Bellow passed away on April 5, 2005, in Brookline, Massachusetts, at the age of 89.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Bellow wasn't known for actively seeking the spotlight. He preferred to let his work speak for itself. Public appearances were not a common occurrence for him.

Bellow's works have been adapted into films and continue to be studied and celebrated in academic and literary circles.

ACHIEVEMENTS Saul Bellow's literary achievements are substantial. Here's a breakdown of some of his most prestigious accolades:

Nobel Prize in Literature (1976) - The pinnacle of recognition for his exceptional contribution to literature.

Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (Herzog, 1965) - Awarded for a singular work demonstrating mastery of the craft.

Three National Book Awards for Fiction - Highlighting the excellence of multiple works:

The Adventures of Augie March (1953)

Henderson the Rain King(1959)

Mr. Sammler's Planet (1970)

National Medal of Arts (1990) - Bestowed upon those who have made significant contributions to the arts in America.

Hilaire Belloc

NAME: Hilaire Belloc

WHAT FAMOUS FOR: Renowned for his prolific literary output, including essays, poetry, travelogues, and children's literature, as well as his witty and provocative writing style.

BIRTH: Hilaire Belloc was born on July 27, 1870, in La Celle-Saint-Cloud, France.

FAMILY BACKGROUND: He came from a French Catholic family with English ancestry. His father, Louis Belloc, was a distinguished lawyer and his mother, Elizabeth Rayner Parkes, was an English writer and suffragette.

His father died when Hilaire was two but not before being wiped out financially in a stock market crash. His mother then brought him and his sister Marie back to England.

CHILDHOOD: Belloc spent his early years in England after his family relocated there when he was two years old. He developed a love for the English countryside and a rebellious streak.

EDUCATION: He attended the Oratory School in Birmingham, England, and later studied at Balliol College, Oxford, where he excelled in history.

CAREER RECORD: Belloc's career was multifaceted, encompassing journalism, poetry, travel writing, and political commentary. He wrote extensively on a wide range of topics, from history to religion. Here's his resume:

Held various jobs early on, including journalist and teacher.

Became a prolific writer, producing a vast amount of work across genres.

Served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Salford South (1906-1910).

During World War I, worked for the War Propaganda Bureau

APPEARANCE: Belloc was described as stout and jovial, often sporting a black cloak and wide-brimmed hat.

Portrait by E. O. Hoppé, 1910

FASHION: He favored traditional attire, reflecting his conservative views and aristocratic background.

CHARACTER: Belloc was known for his passionate convictions, sharp intellect, and provocative opinions. He was a staunch Catholic who believed in social and economic reform. Belloc possessed a strong sense of patriotism and a deep love for England

SENSE OF HUMOUR: Witty and satirical, Belloc used humor as a potent weapon for social and political commentary. His barbs could be scathing, but his clever wordplay and use of absurdity often delighted readers.

His children's books, like The Bad Child's Book of Beasts, showcased his playful side.

RELATIONSHIPS: Belloc married American-born Elodie Hogan at St. John the Baptist Catholic church in Napa, California, on June 15, 1896.

They had five children and their marriage was marked by deep affection and shared intellectual interests.

Elodie died in 1914 of influenza — after which he wore mourning for the rest of his life. 

Belloc had a close relationship with his sister, who was also a successful writer.

MONEY AND FAME: Belloc achieved moderate financial success through his writing, but never became exceptionally wealthy.

He gained significant recognition as a prominent public intellectual and literary figure.

FOOD AND DRINK: Belloc enjoyed hearty meals and was known for his appreciation of wine.

MUSIC AND ARTS: While not a musician or artist himself, Belloc had a deep appreciation for classical music and the visual arts.

LITERATURE: Belloc was a bit of a wordsmith extraordinaire. Poems, essays, history books – you name it, he wrote it. Though let's be honest, the thing most folks remember him for is those Cautionary Tales for Children. Delightfully dark little ditties, those were, filled with the kind of moral lessons that would leave a lasting impression on even the most sugar-addled youngster. Like the tale of Matilda who swallowed a newt, or young Herbert who tried to play with a lighted fuse. Not exactly sunshine and rainbows, but hey, they got the point across, didn't they?

Travel writing was another one of Belloc's fortes. Bloke loved to hit the dusty road, whether it meant hoofing it all the way to Rome (which he documented in a ripping yarn called "The Path to Rome") or just exploring some sleepy English village.

Asked why he wrote so much, Belloc said: "Because my children are howling for pearls and caviar."

NATURE: Belloc was a passionate advocate for the English countryside, celebrating its beauty and history in his writings.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS: He was an avid sailor and enjoyed outdoor activities such as hiking and gardening.

An athletic man who hiked extensively in Britain and Europe, Belloc made his way on foot for a significant part of the 2870 miles from Philadelphia to San Francisco. 

SCIENCE AND MATHS: While not a scientist or mathematician, Belloc engaged with scientific and mathematical ideas in his writing, often from a historical or philosophical perspective.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: Belloc's Catholic faith was a cornerstone of his worldview. He believed in a return to traditional values and a social order based on Catholic principles.

He saw reason and faith as compatible, using logic to defend his religious beliefs. However, his views on other religions, particularly Judaism, were sometimes seen as intolerant.

Belloc's writings frequently explored religious and philosophical themes, reflecting his devout Catholic faith and conservative worldview.

SCANDAL His outspoken views and occasional anti-Semitic remarks generated controversy.

MILITARY RECORD: Determined to fulfil the obligation of military service necessary to retain his French citizenship, Belloc served his term with an artillery regiment near Toul in 1891

During World War I, Belloc served in the French army as an interpreter, reflecting his deep attachment to his French heritage.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS: Belloc enjoyed robust health for most of his life, despite his later years being affected by health issues.

HOMES: Belloc lived in various locations in England and France throughout his life, including his beloved estate in Sussex, King's Land.  In his later years, he settled in Surrey, closer to London.

TRAVEL: A restless spirit, Belloc traveled extensively throughout Europe and North America. These journeys broadened his perspective and fueled his writing. Some highlights include:

France: His childhood in France and his fluency in French shaped his cultural identity and his appreciation for European history.

North America: He traveled to the United States on several occasions, observing American society and comparing it to his ideals.

DEATH: Belloc's health declined in his later years, culminating in a debilitating stroke in 1942. He lived for another eleven years but remained largely incapacitated. He died on July 16, 1953, in Guildford, Surrey.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA While not a fictional character himself, Belloc's life and work have been the subject of biographies, documentaries, and even literary references. Biographies like A.N. Wilson's Hilaire Belloc offer in-depth explorations of the man and his complexities. Documentaries explore his influence on British literature and social thought. Additionally, some contemporary writers reference Belloc's work, demonstrating his enduring impact.

ACHIEVEMENTS A prolific and versatile writer, Belloc left a lasting mark on English literature. His novels, essays, poems, and historical works continue to be read and enjoyed.

As a social commentator, he championed Catholicism and traditional values while advocating for social reform. His outspoken views, although sometimes controversial, sparked important conversations about society and its direction.

Belloc's greatest achievement may be his celebration of the English countryside. Through his evocative writing, he captured its beauty and history, inspiring generations to appreciate the English landscape.

Alexander Graham Bell

NAME Alexander Graham Bell, he was born Alexander Bell in Edinburgh, Scotland and later adopted the middle name Graham out of admiration for Alexander Graham, a family friend. To close relatives and friends he remained "Aleck" which his father continued to call him into later life.

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Inventor of the telephone

BIRTH Alexander Graham Bell was born on March 3, 1847 at 16 South Charlotte Street, Edinburgh

FAMILY BACKGROUND Aleck's family were associated with the teaching of elocution: his grandfather in London, his uncle in Dublin, and his father, Professor Alexander Melville Bell (1819-1905), in Edinburgh, were all professed elocutionists. His dad was a specialist in deaf children's education who invented "visible speech", a method of phonetic notation for deaf mutes. His treatise on Visible Speech, which appeared in Edinburgh in 1868 is well known to those who are interested in such matters.

Aleck's mum Eliza Grace (née Symonds) began to lose her hearing when he was 12 and the sensitive son learned a manual finger language so he could sit at her side and tap out silently the conversations swirling around the family parlour.

He had two brothers, Melville James Bell (1845–1870) and Edward Charles Bell (1848–1867) who both died of tuberculosis.

CHILDHOOD As a child, the smart Aleck displayed a natural curiosity about his world, experimenting at an early age. At the age of 11 he invented a device for separating wheat from its husk and when still in his teens, the precocious youngster made a talking doll that said "mama"; so convincing was it that his neighbours began hunting for an abandoned baby.

EDUCATION As a young child Aleck received his early schooling at home from his father along with his brothers. Later he was educated at the Royal High School of Edinburgh, from which he graduated at the age of 15. 

Aleck's school record was undistinguished, marked by absenteeism and lacklustre grades. His main interest remained in the sciences, especially biology, while he treated other school subjects with indifference, to the dismay of his demanding father.

At the age of 16 he secured a position as a pupil-teacher of elocution and music in Weston House Academy, at Elgin in Morayshire. The following year, he attended the University of Edinburgh; joining his older brother Melville who had enrolled there the previous year.

CAREER RECORD 1863 Bell secured a position as a "pupil-teacher" of elocution and music, in Weston House Academy, at Elgin, Moray, Scotland. Although he was enrolled as a student in Latin and Greek, he instructed classes himself in return for board and £10 per session.  He also assisted his father in teaching deaf and dumb children in London.

1865 When the Bell family moved to London, Alexander returned to Weston House Academy as an assistant master and, in his spare hours, made experiments with sound using a minimum of laboratory equipment.
1866-67 An instructor at Somerset College at Bath.
1867-70 Bell returned home in 1867. With aspirations to obtain a degree at the University College London, Bell considered his next years as preparation for the degree examinations, devoting his spare time at his family's residence to studying. Also helped his father in Visible Speech demonstrations and lectures.
1870 Bell emigrated to Canada with his parents where set up his own workshop in a converted carriage house. There, he continued his experiments with electricity and sound.
1872 Opened a private school in Boston, USA to train teachers of the deaf and the methods of visible speech that he'd learnt from Dad.
1873 Appointed a Professor of Vocal Physiology and Elocution at Boston University
1874 Began work on telephone
1876 First sentence transmitted by phone
1877 Launched the Bell Telephone Company. Soon he was the bell of the ball
Devoted the rest of his life to the education of deaf and dumb children. One of his pupils was a young woman called Helen Keller.
1896 Succeeded his father in law as President of the National Geographic Society

APPEARANCE Bell was a tall, distinguished-looking man with a neat beard and often wore formal attire. When older Bell was short, grey hair, bushy scruffy beard. He looked like someone had stuck his unwanted candy floss on his chin.

Portrait of Alexander Graham Bell

FASHION: He dressed conservatively for his time, favoring suits and ties.

CHARACTER Bell was known for his patience, curiosity, and passion for innovation He was agreeable, reclusive and hard working.

SENSE OF HUMOUR When Bell and Thomas Watson were on opposite sides of America to launch the new long distance telephone lines. Bell repeated his first words on the phone "Mr Watson, come here, I want to see you" as a joke.

RELATIONSHIPS As professor at Boston University Bell had many deaf pupils. One of them the deaf and mute Mabel Hubbard was a bright, attractive girl who was ten years his junior but became the object of Bell's affection. They married on July 11, 1877 in the Cambridge home of her parents, when she was 19 and lived together happily for 45 years. He was devoted to his wife and two daughters Elsie (1878-1964) and Marian (1880–1962). Marian was referred to as "Daisy", and was nearly named Photophone by Bell after her birth.

Mabel also bore two sons, Edward (1881) and Robert (1883), both of whom died shortly after birth leaving their parents bereft.

Bell, his wife Mabel Gardiner Hubbard, and their daughters Elsie (left) and Marian ca. 1885

Here's a spot of trivia: Bell’s grandson answered the very first commercial mobile phone call in 1983.

MONEY AND FAME At first many businesses refused to ring the changes with these new aids to communications as they did not think they would be any quicker than the messenger service they employed. But the telephone became the great hit of the June 1876 celebration of the Declaration of Independence when Bell recited "to be or not to be" down the phone to an excited Emperor of Brazil who was standing 150 yards away. His company, Bell Telephone Company, became one of the largest in the USA by making the art of communication more expensive than ever before in history.

In 1880 Bell received the French government's Volta prize for his invention of the telephone. (50,000 Francs). He used the money to establish the Volta laboratory and the American Association to Promote the Teaching of Speech to the Deaf in Washington.

FOOD AND DRINK Bell enjoyed a simple diet, emphasizing healthful foods.

The Scottish inventor has the odd habit of drinking his soup through a glass straw.

MUSIC AND ARTS (1) From his early years, Bell showed a sensitive nature and a talent for art, poetry and music that was encouraged by his mother. With no formal training, he mastered the piano and became the family's pianist.

(2) As a boy Aleck had attacks of what his mother called “musical fever”. Listening to music affected him so deeply, he couldn't sleep leaving him with a headache in the morning.

(3) Before Bell invented the telephone he designed a piano which could transmit its music to a distance by means of electricity.

(4) When he invented the phone he thought its main use would be to play music to elected subscribers.

LITERATURE (1) Bell inspired a book which is found in most homes throughout the western world- the Telephone Directory. Incidentally the first telephone directory only had 50 names in it.

(2) Bell helped found Science magazine in 1880 in partnership with his father in law Gardiner Hubbard.

(3) As president of the National Geographic Society, Bell transformed what had began as a modest

pamphlet into the world famous National Geographic Magazine. He wrote articles for the magazine under the enigmatic pseudonym of H.A. Largelamb.

NATURE Going back to Aleck's talking doll (see childhood), after the success of the automaton, the teenage Scot continued to experiment with a live subject, the family's Skye Terrier, "Trouve". After Aleck taught it to growl continuously, he would reach into its mouth and manipulate the dog's lips and vocal cords to produce a crude-sounding "Ow ah oo ga ma ma." With little convincing, visitors believed his dog could articulate "How are you grandma?" More indicative of his playful nature, his experiments convinced onlookers that they saw a "talking dog."

Bell was connected with the eugenics movement in the United States. The Scottish inventor's hobby of livestock breeding led to his appointment to biologist David Starr Jordan's Committee on Eugenics, under the auspices of the American Breeders Association. His own investigations of race improving theories led to him developing a more prolific breed of sheep.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Bell was an avid sailor and also enjoyed working with kites.

Bell's hydrofoil boat set the world water speed record in 1919 when he was 72 by reaching speeds in excess of 70 miles an hour. For many years it was the fastest boat in the world.

SCIENCE AND MATHS (1) Bell researched sound recording Aerodynamics and Electro Optical Communication and in 1880 he invented the photophone which transmits speech by light rays. In 1886 he invented the first wax recording cylinder.

(2) Bell invented an audiometer artificial ear, which was capable of registering sounds on a sheet of glass covered in lampblack.

(3) Bell invented a sorting machine for punch coded census cards

(4) Bell toiled for the deaf for many years. His main scientific vision had been to help the deaf. In the USA he publicised the visible speech system developed by his father which shows how the lips, tongue and throat are used in the articulation of sound.

(5) Before the telephone Bell developed a harmonic telegraph which meant for the first time many messages could be sent down the wire at once.

(6) And now the one you've been waiting for... The telephone. 

Bell at the opening of the long-distance line from New York to Chicago in 1892

Bell wasn't one day struck by an idea for the telephone. In fact the inspiration came when he was working to improve the telegram in Boston, Massachusetts. Not adept with his hands, the Scot was aided by a young repair mechanic and model maker, Thomas Watson. On June 2, 1875 Watson made a mistake, the incorrect contact of a clamping screw which was too tight changed what should have been an intermittent transmission into a continuous current. Bell at the other end of the wire heard the sound of the contacter dropping making Watson the most famous Bell ringer since Quasimodo.

Bell spent the next winter making calculations and filing an application for a patent knowing a rival, Elisha Gray was working on a similar project.

On February 14, 1876 a representative of Bell filed his patent for a "telephone" which is Greek for sound, at New York Patent Office at 12.00PM. The now forgotten Gray got there two hours later.
Bell returned to Boston the same day and the next day resumed work, drawing in his notebook a diagram similar to that in Gray's patent caveat. 

On March 10, 1876, three days after his patent was issued, Bell succeeded in getting his telephone to work, using a liquid transmitter similar to Gray's design. The first telephone call occurred when the clumsy Bell spilt battery acid on his trousers. He summoned his Watson over the phone. So the first intelligible words transmitted over the new electric speech machine was not "Hello its Bell ringing" but "Come here Watson, I want you". As Bell could have shouted this and Watson would have heard it anyway it was an inauspicious start to selling the benefits of an audio communication device. 

Presumably Bell then had to invent a second phone to check the first worked and a third one to confirm the engagement tone was OK.

Bell also invented the device that makes a telephone ring. A good thing he did as previously anyone making a call had to shout down the line to alert the people at the other end to pick up the receiver.

The range of Bell's inventive genius is represented only in part by the 18 patents that were granted in his name alone and the 12 he shared with his collaborators. These included 14 for the telephone and telegraph, 4 for the photophone, 1 for the phonograph, 5 for aerial vehicles, 4 for hydroairplanes, and 2 for a selenium cell.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: He had a rationalist and empirical approach to knowledge, shaped by scientific inquiry.

Bell was a Unitarian and an Universalist. In 1901 he came across a Unitarian pamphlet and found its theology appealingly undogmatic. Alexander wrote to Mabel: "I have always considered myself as an agnostic, but I have now discovered that I am a Unitarian Agnostic."

SCANDAL (1) Not only was Elisha Gray pretty close in patenting the telephone first, many other people believed they thought it first. There were about 600 lawsuits over his invention.

(2) In 1876 the President of the telegram company, Western Union proved he was a prophet without honor when he said "the telephone has too many shortcomings to be considered as a means of communication. This device is of no value to us."

(3) Bell created a metal detecting tool to help find the assassins' bullet in President Garfield in 1881. The device failed to work as no one had thought of removing the steel bed springs on which the president was lying. The metal sent the machine haywire, couldn't locate the bullet and Garfield died from his wounds.

(4) Bell's telephone has interrupted over 1 billion baths since its invention (I made this statistic up but its probably right)

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Throughout late 1867, Bell's health faltered mainly through exhaustion. His father had also suffered a debilitating illness earlier in life and had been restored to health by a convalescence in Newfoundland, so his family moved from London to the fresh air of Canada from London for the sake of their one remaining son's health. (As I mentioned earlier, Aleck's two brothers both died of tuberculosis).

Bell often suffered from a splitting headache in the morning. Because of this he normally lied in until after 9.00, or if he had an early morning appointment, the Scot stayed up all night. Bell had suffered from these headaches from an early age and when he was younger his mother suggested putting cold water on his eyes, a little beer and refraining from pickles as various cures.

HOMES Bell's family moved to Bradford, Ontario, Canada in 1870. The following year he moved to Cambridge near Boston, Massachusetts and was working to improve the telegram in an upper room in Court Street, Boston, Massachusetts when he invented the phone. 

The Bell family home was located in Cambridge until 1880 when his father-in-law bought a house in Washington, D.C., and later in 1882 the in the same city for Bell's family, so that they could be with him while he attended to the numerous court cases involving patent disputes.

On one occasion, searching for a cool place to work in the heat of Washington, Bell had his desk placed at the deep end of his swimming pool. (It had been drained first.)

In 1886, Bell started building a substantial summer home on a point across from Baddeck, on Cape Breton island on Nova Scotia, Canada. By 1889, a large house, christened The Lodge was completed and two years later, a larger complex of buildings, including a new laboratory, were begun that the Bells would name Beinn Bhreagh (Gaelic: beautiful mountain) after Alec's ancestral Scottish highlands.

Today a museum containing many of Bell's original inventions located there is a legacy to his remarkable career.

TRAVEL Fascinated by aeronautics, Bell begun experiments in 1891 to develop motor-powered heavier-than-air aircraft. His wife founded the Aerial Experimental Association, the first research organisation established by a woman, as she shared her husband's vision to fly. She advised Alexander to seek "young" help as he was at the graceful age of 60.

In 1907 Bell developed large human carrying tetrahedral celled kites and he made several other contributions in the early days of flying.

Bell was one of the co founders of the National Geographic Society and its president 1896-1904. He sought to bring understanding of travel to the masses by vivid pictures. As it's President, Bell sought to promote an understanding of life in distant lands in an era when only the privileged could travel.

Bell's final full-sized “hydrodrome” hydrofoil boat, developed in 1917, reached speeds in excess of 113-km/hr-(70 m.p.h.) and for many years was the fastest boat in the world.

DEATH Alexander Graham Bell died at his Cape Breton Island estate on August 2, 1922 after a long illness. Mabel whispered to him "don't leave me". Unable to speak, Bell traced with his fingers the sign "no". After this, his last word, the Scots-American departed for the great telephone exchange in the sky. During the funeral service, every telephone of the Bell system was kept silent.

Bell is buried alongside his wife atop Beinn Bhreagh Mountain overlooking Bras d'Or Lake.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA (1) Sweet had a #33 UK hit in 1971 with a tribute song "Alexander Graham Bell": "Many years ago, he started something with his first hello". It entered the charts at # 71 just as the band signed a US contact…with Bell Records.

(2) The 1939 film The Story of Alexander Graham Bell with Don Ameche as the inventor of the blower. For a while after this film, the telephone was known by the American public as the "Ameche". Loretta Young played his belle, Mabel.

ACHIEVEMENTS (1) The term "decibel" used to denote noise volume is named after Alexander Graham.

(2) Founder of the American Association to Promote the Teaching of Speech to the Deaf.

(3) His telephone invention has become a worldwide phenomenon without which we now would find it difficult. For instance if all the telephone lines under New York City were straightened out they would reach from here to Venus. Today there are over 500 million telephones in the world.

(4) Despite its failure to save the president's life, Bell's metal detecting machine was an early prototype of the one that is now found in airports worldwide.

Sources
(1) Book of Inventions & Discoveries by Jean-Louis Besson
(2) Wikipedia