Frances Hodgson Burnett

NAME Frances Eliza Hodgson Burnett

WHAT FAMOUS FOR A prolific British-American author, best known for her children's novels, including Little Lord Fauntleroy and A Little Princess.

BIRTH Frances Hodgson was born on November 24, 1849, in Cheetham, Manchester, England.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Frances was the third of five children in a middle-class family. Her father, Edwin Hodgson, owned a thriving ironmongery business, but his early death in 1853 left the family in financial hardship. Her mother, Eliza Boond, came from a well-to-do Manchester family

CHILDHOOD As a child, Frances spent hours acting out scenes from stories like Uncle Tom's Cabin. This imaginative spirit carried through to her adult life, where she became known for her romantic and sentimental themes in both her children's and adult fiction. 

The Hodgson family initially lived comfortably, with Edwin owning an ironmongery and brass goods business in Deansgate, Manchester. They employed a maid and a nurse-maid, indicating their relative prosperity. However, this comfortable life was short-lived.

When Frances father died it left the family in financial distress. Her mother Eliza attempted to keep her husband's business afloat, but the family continued to struggle. Over the next eleven years, their circumstances deteriorated, forcing them to move into progressively smaller houses.

Burnett as a young woman

In 1865, when Frances was about 16 years old, the family's financial situation became dire. The American Civil War had devastated Manchester's cotton economy, depleting the last of the Hodgsons' resources. In response, the family emigrated to the United States, settling in New Market, Tennessee, where they lived with Frances's maternal uncle.

The early years in Tennessee were challenging. The family lived in a log cabin during their first winter in New Market, outside Knoxville. Despite the hardships, it was here that Frances began her writing career at age 19, publishing stories in magazines to help support her family

EDUCATION Frances's formal education was limited. For about a year, she attended a small dame school run by two women. However, much of her education was self-directed. She was an avid reader and spent considerable time educating herself

Frances was largely self-taught, immersing herself in literature and writing from a young age. She displayed a natural gift for storytelling, often entertaining her siblings with her imaginative tales.

CAREER RECORD Began publishing short stories in her teens to support her family. Her writing gained popularity in American magazines, and she later published several novels. Her breakthrough came with Little Lord Fauntleroy (1886), inspired by her son Vivian.

APPEARANCE Frances Burnett was described as elegant, with a vibrant personality that shone through in her public appearances.

Burnett in 1888

FASHION Burnett was known for her love of Victorian attire, which included feather boas, buttons, and lace. Her clothing style was considered flamboyant for the time, and she was noted for her dramatic flair, earning her the nickname "Fluffy" from her family.

Burnett's fashion sense extended to her children as well; she famously dressed her sons in velvet suits with lace collars and allowed their hair to grow long, which she styled into curls. This style was immortalized in her character Little Lord Fauntleroy.

During a house fire, she reportedly went back in to rescue her clothes, demonstrating her attachment to her wardrobe.

CHARACTER Despite personal hardships, she maintained a resilient and optimistic outlook and a love of life. She was known for her flamboyant style, often adorning herself in Victorian attire and dramatic accessories. This flair for the dramatic extended to her personality, as she was nicknamed "Fluffy" by her family and frequently signed her letters "Fluffina."

SENSE OF HUMOUR Burnett's wit and charm were evident in her letters and social interactions, and she often infused humor into her writing.

Her "Tuesday conversation groups" were popular social events, suggesting she was an engaging and likely humorous hostess.

RELATIONSHIPS Frances Hodgson Burnett married Dr. Swan Burnett in September 1873, a union that would ultimately prove to be challenging. Despite their initial hopes, the couple's differences in personality and lifestyle led to increasing strain on their relationship.

Frances, an ambitious and outgoing writer, often found herself at odds with Swan's more reserved and traditional nature. Her growing literary fame and frequent travels further exacerbated the divide between them. As her career flourished, the financial balance shifted, potentially causing tension and resentment.

Additionally, Frances's unconventional behavior, including her love of smoking and her independent spirit, may have clashed with societal expectations and strained the marriage. It is suggested that she had affairs with other men during this time, further contributing to the breakdown of the relationship.

The couple eventually separated and lived apart for many years before officially divorcing in 1898. While the divorce proceedings were marked by formal accusations, the underlying issues had been brewing for years, ultimately leading to the dissolution of their marriage.

The couple had two sons: Lionel, born in September 1874 and Vivian, born in 1876. Tragically, Lionel died of consumption (tuberculosis) at the age of 15 in 1890, which deeply affected Frances and sent her into a depression. Vivian, her younger son, survived to adulthood and was the inspiration for the character of Little Lord Fauntleroy.

Frances Hodgson Burnett's second marriage, to Stephen Townesend, was brief and tumultuous. The couple, with a significant age difference, wed in 1900. However, the union was marked by incompatibility and a sense of constraint on Burnett's part.

It appears that Burnett's motivation for marrying Townesend was complex, likely influenced by a desire to reward his support during her son Lionel's illness. However, the marriage quickly proved to be a mismatched pairing. Burnett felt pressured and unhappy, expressing her frustration in private correspondence.

The marriage lasted only a year, ending in divorce in 1901. This brief and tumultuous experience left a lasting impact on Burnett, inspiring her to seek solace and escape through her writing.

Following this second failed marriage, Burnett chose to live the remainder of her life as a single woman, focusing on her literary pursuits and personal growth.

MONEY AND FAME Frances achieved significant financial success and fame from her writing, particularly after the publication of Little Lord Fauntleroy.

She was a generous and compassionate individual, using her wealth and influence to support various charitable causes, particularly those benefiting children.

FOOD AND DRINK  Frances Hodgson Burnett had a deep appreciation for the culinary arts. This is evident in her beloved novel, The Secret Garden, where food plays a significant role in the characters' physical and emotional transformation.

One striking example is Mary Lennox, a young girl who initially views food with disdain. As she begins to heal and connect with nature, her appetite returns. A simple bowl of porridge becomes a symbol of her newfound vitality and appreciation for life's simple pleasures.

The novel also celebrates the English tradition of teatime, highlighting the comforting and social aspects of sharing food. The mention of warm cranberry scones, fruit tea loaf, cucumber sandwiches, and currant buns evokes images of cozy gatherings and delicious treats.

MUSIC AND ARTS Burnett had an affinity for the arts and enjoyed incorporating vivid descriptions of music and visual beauty into her work.

Burnett wrote and produced 13 plays that appeared in London's West End and on Broadway.

She was prescient about the growing importance of film, ensuring she retained film rights to her books.

LITERATURE Frances Hodgson Burnett, a woman of considerable pluck, was born in the grimy industrial city of Manchester, England. Her idyllic childhood was rudely interrupted in 1853 when her father shuffled off this mortal coil, leaving the family in a bit of a pickle. To escape the gloom, they upped sticks and headed to the United States, settling in the sleepy town of New Market, Tennessee. It was there, at the tender age of nineteen, that Frances began her literary career, scribbling away at stories to help keep the wolf from the door.

After a brief spell in Paris the Burnetts returned to the United States, settling in Washington, D.C. It was here that Frances really hit her stride, penning a string of novels that captivated readers on both sides of the Atlantic. Her breakthrough came with Little Lord Fauntleroy, a heartwarming tale that made her a household name.

1886 first edition of Little Lord Fauntleroy 

In the 1880s, Frances developed a fondness for England, spending increasing amounts of time there. Eventually, she bought a place of her own, a cozy little spot where she would write her most enduring work, The Secret Garden.

Writing was Burnett's primary passion and profession. She was a prolific author, producing 53 novels in total, with most of them being for adults rather than children. Her love for storytelling began in childhood, when she would tell stories to her classmates during recess. Her writing was influenced by Victorian and Romantic traditions, with themes of transformation and redemption.

NATURE She had a deep appreciation for nature, which is prominently reflected in The Secret Garden. The novel is renowned for its rich imagery and the way it captures the transformative power of nature. Burnett uses detailed descriptions to create a lush, immersive world that highlights the beauty and restorative qualities of the garden itself.

PETS Burnett was fond of animals, and her characters often displayed affection for pets, reflecting her own sentiments.

Burnett had a pet robin that she formed a close relationship with during her time at Maytham Hall in Kent, England. This robin inspired the "robin" episodes in her famous novel The Secret Garden.

Burnett wrote a memoir titled My Robin about her experiences with this bird, which was published as a separate book in September 1912. In My Robin, Burnett detailed her relationship with the bird, including her tendency to anthropomorphize its behaviors, suggesting a deep emotional connection with her pet.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Burnett had a green thumb and a wanderlust spirit. As a child, she'd spend hours exploring the fields near her Manchester home, a precursor to her lifelong love of nature. It wasn't until she was 55 that she took up gardening herself, cultivating a particular fondness for roses. Her passion for gardening blossomed into her most famous work, The Secret Garden.

The Secret Garden (1911)

SCIENCE AND MATHS While her works do not focus on these subjects, her attention to detail suggests a keen observational ability.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Frances Hodgson Burnett, a woman of deep spiritual curiosity, wove a tapestry of belief that was both eclectic and profound. She drew inspiration from various spiritual movements, including New Thought, Christian Science, and Theosophy, yet never confined herself to a single doctrine. Her philosophy was a work in progress, shaped by personal experiences, particularly the tragic loss of her son Lionel and her own battles with depression.

At the heart of Burnett's worldview was a belief in the power of the mind. She was a fervent advocate of positive thinking, a central tenet of the New Thought movement. This belief is vividly depicted in The Secret Garden, where characters like Colin Craven are transformed through the power of their thoughts and their connection with nature.

Burnett also shared some of the core principles of Christian Science, particularly the idea that illness can be a manifestation of negative thinking. Her own experiences with physical and mental health issues led her to seek solace in faith healing and the power of the mind to heal the body.

Nature was another source of spiritual inspiration for Burnett. She saw the natural world as a sacred space, imbued with a divine energy that could heal and transform. The garden, a recurring motif in her work, is a powerful symbol of renewal and growth, mirroring her belief in the potential for human transformation.

Burnett's writing, while drawing from a diverse range of spiritual influences, often echoes Christian themes. Central to her work is the idea of redemption through love and human connection. Her characters, like Mary Lennox and Colin Craven, undergo profound transformations as they learn to love and be loved.

The power of kindness and community is another recurring theme. Burnett often depicts the transformative impact of acts of compassion and the importance of belonging to a supportive community.

Perhaps most significantly, the garden itself can be seen as a metaphor for the biblical Garden of Eden. It is a place of healing, rebirth, and spiritual renewal, where characters reconnect with nature and discover their true selves.

POLITICS She did not overtly engage in politics, though her work subtly critiques social class and gender inequalities.

SCANDAL Burnett faced criticism for her unconventional lifestyle, including her divorce and her independent spirit.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Frances Hodgson Burnett's life was marked by significant health challenges. Her mental health, in particular, was a recurring issue, with bouts of depression often overshadowing her successes. The loss of her beloved son, Lionel, in 1890, plunged her into a deep and enduring period of sorrow. Additionally, the stresses of her second marriage and the demands of her career exacerbated her mental health struggles, leading to a nervous breakdown.

To cope with her health challenges, Burnett sought solace in alternative healing philosophies. She was drawn to the ideas of Christian Science and New Thought, which emphasized the power of the mind to heal the body. Her interest in mind healing was a testament to her resilience and her determination to overcome adversity.

HOMES Burnett and her family migrated to New Market, Tennessee, in 1865, where they initially lived in a log cabin near Knoxville during their first winter. They later moved to a home in Knoxville that Burnett nicknamed "Noah's Ark, Mt. Ararat."

She settled in Washington, D.C., after marrying Dr. Swan Burnett, where they lived for several years.

Burnett spent two years living in Paris with her family during her literary success, blending European culture into her life.

In her later years, Burnett leased Maytham Hall, a historic manor in Rolvenden, Kent, England, after her divorce. The property’s gardens were an inspiration for The Secret Garden.

Great Maytham Hall by Stephen Nunney

She built a home called Fairseat in the Plandome Park section of Plandome Manor on Long Island outside New York City in 1908, using it as a sanctuary from public scrutiny and a summer retreat.

Burnett spent her winters in Bermuda in her later years, enjoying the milder climate and seclusion.

TRAVEL Frances traveled extensively between the United States and England, often finding inspiration in the places she visited. She crossed the Atlantic 33 times by steamship.

Her earnings from writing allowed her to travel extensively in Europe.

DEATH Frances Hodgson Burnett died peacefully at home on October 29, 1924, at the age of 74. She passed away in Plandome Manor, New York, where she had spent the final 17 years of her life. Burnett was buried in the Roslyn Cemetery on Long Island, New York. Her son Vivian was later buried next to her in the same cemetery after his death in 1937.

A notable feature of Burnett's gravesite is a statue of her son at the foot of her grave, depicting him as an older version of Little Lord Fauntleroy, paying tribute to her both as a writer and as a mother

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Frances Hodgson Burnett's work and legacy have been celebrated in numerous media adaptations and portrayals, ensuring her stories remain beloved by audiences worldwide. Here are some highlights of her media appearances:

1. Film and Television Adaptations

Little Lord Fauntleroy Adapted into several films, including a silent version in 1921 and a 1980 TV movie starring Ricky Schroder. The story’s portrayal of innocence and transformation captivated audiences.

A Little Princess This story has been adapted many times, most notably in the 1995 film directed by Alfonso Cuarón, which received critical acclaim for its visual beauty and emotional depth.

The Secret Garden The novel has been adapted into numerous films, including the 1949 version, a critically acclaimed 1993 movie, and a 2020 reimagining starring Colin Firth. The enduring appeal of the magical garden resonates with viewers across generations.

2. Stage Productions Many of Burnett's works, particularly A Little Princess and The Secret Garden, have been adapted into stage plays and musicals. The 1991 Broadway musical The Secret Garden won three Tony Awards and remains a favorite among theater enthusiasts.

3. Documentaries and Biographical Features Burnett has been the subject of documentaries that explore her life, such as her writing process, personal struggles, and the enduring impact of her novels. These often highlight her journey from financial hardship to literary success. 

Pop Culture References Her characters, particularly Little Lord Fauntleroy, have influenced fashion and cultural perceptions of childhood. The character’s style, with its velvet suits and lace collars, sparked trends in children’s clothing during the late 19th century.

ACHIEVEMENTS Frances Hodgson Burnett is celebrated for creating timeless literature that continues to enchant readers worldwide. She transformed the landscape of children’s literature by blending realism with fantasy and empathy.

Edmund Burke

NAME Edmund Burke

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Edmund Burke is famous for being a prominent statesman, political theorist, and philosopher. He is best known for his support of the American Revolution, his opposition to the French Revolution, and his influential works on political philosophy and aesthetics.

BIRTH Edmund Burke was born on January 12, 1729, in Dublin, Ireland.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Burke was born into a mixed religious family; his father, Richard Burke, was a prosperous Protestant attorney, and his mother, Mary Nagle Burke, was Roman Catholic. This diverse religious background influenced his views on tolerance and politics.

CHILDHOOD Burke spent his early years in Dublin and later moved to a rural area, where he developed an appreciation for nature and rural life. His childhood was marked by a strong emphasis on education and intellectual development.

EDUCATION Burke attended a Quaker school in Ballitore, County Kildare, before entering Trinity College, Dublin, where he studied classics and law. He later moved to London to study law at the Middle Temple, though he never pursued a legal career.

CAREER RECORD Burke's career included roles as a writer, member of Parliament, and political theorist. He served as a Member of Parliament for the Whig Party, representing various constituencies from 1765 to 1794. He is noted for his speeches on the American colonies, the impeachment of Warren Hastings, and his writings on political philosophy.

APPEARANCE Burke was described as having a dignified and commanding presence, with a stout build, sharp features, and penetrating eyes that reflected his intellectual vigor.

Portrait by Joshua Reynolds c. 1769

FASHION Burke dressed in the typical fashion of an 18th-century gentleman, often seen in well-tailored coats, waistcoats, breeches, and wigs. His attire reflected his status and the norms of his time.

CHARACTER Burke was known for his eloquence, integrity, and deep sense of justice. He was passionate about his beliefs and unafraid to speak against popular opinion, demonstrating strong moral and ethical convictions.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Burke possessed a sharp wit and a keen sense of humor, often using irony and satire in his speeches and writings to make his points more compelling.

RELATIONSHIPS Burke married Jane Mary Nugent on March 12, 1757. She was the daughter of Dr. Christopher Nugent, a Catholic physician who had provided him with medical treatment at Bath.

They had one surviving son, Richard Burke Jr, who became a barrister while a second son, Christopher died in infancy.  Burke also helped raise a ward, Edmund Nagle (later Admiral Sir Edmund Nagle), the son of a cousin orphaned in 1763.

Burke's relationships with fellow politicians and intellectuals were marked by mutual respect, though he often found himself in heated debates due to his strong opinions.

Burke hung out with the coolest cats in London. Think Samuel Johnson, the literary lion, David Garrick, the theatrical genius, and Joshua Reynolds, the portrait painter who could make even the dullest duke look halfway interesting. Johnson, admired Burke's brains but wasn't so sure about his honesty in the political game.

MONEY AND FAME Burke's financial situation fluctuated throughout his life. While he achieved fame and recognition for his intellectual contributions and political career, he often faced financial difficulties, particularly later in life.

FOOD AND DRINK Burke enjoyed the social aspects of dining and was known to partake in the convivial culture of 18th-century British society, appreciating good food and drink.

MUSIC AND ARTS Burke had a deep appreciation for the arts, particularly literature and theater. He believed in the power of the arts to elevate society and contribute to moral and intellectual development.

LITERATURE Burke was a prolific writer, producing influential works such as A Philosophical Enquiry into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful and Reflections on the Revolution in France. The latter was about why he thought The French Revolution was a terrible idea and became a bestseller across Europe – kind of like the political equivalent of a summer beach read, only a lot less exciting.

Burke's writings have had a lasting impact on political philosophy and aesthetics.

Burke was personally well-versed in classical and contemporary literature.

NATURE Burke had a profound appreciation for nature, which was evident in his writings on the sublime and beautiful. He believed that nature had a powerful effect on human emotions and intellect.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Burke enjoyed intellectual pursuits, including reading, writing, and engaging in political and philosophical discussions. He also took pleasure in the pastoral landscapes of the countryside.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Burke valued empirical observation and the scientific method, applying reason and evidence to his political and philosophical arguments.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Burke's philosophy was rooted in conservatism, emphasizing tradition, social order, and gradual change. His theological views were shaped by his religious upbringing and a belief in the moral foundations of society.

POLITICS Burke's political career was marked by his advocacy for the American colonies' rights, his criticism of British imperial policy in India, and his vehement opposition to the radicalism of the French Revolution. He is often regarded as the father of modern conservatism.

In December 1765, Burke breezed into Parliament, not through the main door mind you, but through a little side entrance reserved for a special kind of MP – the pocket borough MP. In this case, Burke represented Wendover, a place so small it probably had one pub and a sheepdog competition for excitement. But hey, it got him a seat at the big table.

After his first speech, even the grumpy old Bill Pitt the Elder had to admit Burke could talk the socks off anyone in Europe. Apparently, the whole House of Commons needed a lie-down in a darkened room after that performance. They'd never heard anything like it!

By 1774, Burke was representing a much bigger constituency – Bristol, practically England's second city at the time. Burke wasn't afraid to stick his neck out for unpopular causes, like free trade with Ireland and letting Catholics have a say in things. Unfortunately, his constituents weren't so keen on these ideas, and Burke found himself out on his ear in 1780. Luckily, another pocket borough came to the rescue, and Burke spent the rest of his parliamentary career representing Malton.

SCANDAL Burke faced criticism and controversy, particularly for his support of the American Revolution and his opposition to the French Revolution. His involvement in the impeachment of Warren Hastings, the governor-general of Bengal under the East India Company. was also contentious.

MILITARY RECORD Burke was a vocal critic of military abuses and mismanagement, particularly in the context of British colonial policy. When it came to America, Burke wasn't exactly cheering for King George's side. He thought the whole "taxation without representation" thing was a bit much and spoke out against the government trying to strong-arm the colonists. You can find his thoughts neatly laid out in his book called Thoughts on the Present Discontents.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Burke's health declined in his later years, leading to his retirement from active politics. Despite this, he remained intellectually active until his death.

HOMES Burke owned several homes throughout his life, including Gregories, a country estate in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire purchased for £20,000 in 1768. He cherished Gregories as a retreat from political life but it became a bit of a financial millstone around Burke's neck. He had to borrow most of the money and was never able to repay its purchase price in full.

The Gregories estate purchased by Burke for £20,000 in 1768

TRAVEL Burke traveled extensively within the British Isles and made several trips to continental Europe. His travels informed his political views and intellectual pursuits.

DEATH By 1794, Burke was thoroughly disillusioned. The impeachment of Warren Hastings, a whole other story for another time, ended in disappointment, and Burke decided to call it quits on Parliament. Sadly, his son also died young, leaving Burke and his wife heartbroken. Burke died on July 9, 1797, at his home in Beaconsfield, at the age of 68. He was buried in Beaconsfield alongside his son and brother. His wife survived him by nearly fifteen years.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Burke's life and works have been the subject of numerous biographies, scholarly articles, and media portrayals, highlighting his enduring influence on political thought.

ACHIEVEMENTS The thing about Burke is, he believed that freedom needed rules, like a delicious cake needing a proper tin to bake in. This whole "liberty within the framework of law and order" thing became the cornerstone of modern conservatism. So, next time you hear someone talk about limited government and tradition, you can thank Burke for laying the groundwork.

John Bunyan

NAME John Bunyan

WHAT FAMOUS FOR John Bunyan is best known for his Christian allegory, The Pilgrim's Progress, a significant work of religious literature that has been translated into over 100 languages. Bunyan wrote The Pilgrim's Progress in prison.

BIRTH John Bunyan was born on November 28, 1628 at Harrowden, one mile east of Elstow near Bedford, England.

FAMILY BACKGROUND John Bunyan's father was a tinker, a tradesman who made and mended pots and kettles. Bunyan followed his father into the tinkering business.

Tragedy struck in 1644 when he lost both his mother and sister Margaret.

CHILDHOOD Bunyan spent his childhood learning the tinkering trade from his father. His upbringing was humble, marked by the manual labor of a tradesman's life.

His autobiography, Grace Abounding, reveals glimpses of his childhood. Bunyan wrestled with nightmares, picked up swearing from his father, and devoured popular stories from cheap chapbooks.  

EDUCATION Bunyan attended the village school, where he only learned to read and write. The only book he knew thoroughly was the King James Bible.

"Charles 1st once expressed his astonishment that Dr Owen, a learned man, should be attracted to Bunyan's teaching for John was a simple man. Dr Owen's reason was "Had I the tinker's ability please your majesty, I would gladly relinquish my learning." (1) 

CAREER RECORD Bunyan initially worked as a tinker like his father. Here's his resume:

1644-45 Fought in English Civil War

1657 Became a recognised preacher while keeping family on a secure financial footing by remaining a tinker. 

1660-72 In prison, Bunyan supported his family by making long, tagged laces which he sold to hawkers. He was released through the King's Declaration of Indulgence. 

During his lengthy imprisonment Bunyan helped to support the family from prison by making long-tagged shoelaces, "many hundred gross of which he sold to the hawkers."

1671 Appointed pastor by his congregation despite still being in jail. Bunyan took up his position the following year.

1672-5 Continued preaching

1675 King Charles II clamped down on non conformism again and Bunyan was rearrested and jailed for six months.

1678 Part one of Pilgrims Progress was published

1684 Part two of Pilgrims Progress wass published.

In his last years under the nickname "Bishop Bedford," Bunyan organised the non conformist churches between Bedford and London.

APPEARANCE John Bunyan was tall with a ruddy face, sparkling eyes, and a moustache.

John Bunyan By Thomas Sadler Wikipedia

FASHION Bunyan's fashion was likely typical of a tradesman of his time—functional and modest, reflecting his humble origins and later his devout Christian beliefs.

CHARACTER Bunyan was known for his eloquence and powerful speaking. His character was shaped by his deep religious convictions and his experiences of hardship and imprisonment.

SENSE OF HUMOUR There is little documentation of Bunyan's sense of humor, though his writings suggest a serious and contemplative nature.

RELATIONSHIPS Bunyan married his first wife in 1649. Her name is unknown, and she brought two books on Christianity as her dowry, which significantly influenced Bunyan's religious journey. She died in 1656. In 1659, he married his second wife, Elizabeth, who cared for his four children, including a blind daughter named Mary.

MONEY AND FAME When he married his first wife they didn't possess as much as "a dish or a spoon between them."

By 1657 Bunyan had gained a popular reputation in the villages around Bedford as an able, eloquent and powerful speaker. 

Bunyan's fame grew largely after his release from prison and the publication of The Pilgrim's Progress. Despite his literary success, he lived modestly and supported his family through manual labor.

FOOD AND DRINK There are no specific records of Bunyan's dietary preferences, but his humble lifestyle suggests he would have eaten simple, modest meals typical of the lower classes in 17th century England.

MUSIC AND ARTS John Bunyan's most famous work, The Pilgrim's Progress, is considered a masterpiece of allegorical writing, and its vivid imagery and character portrayals have inspired countless artists throughout the centuries. Painters, illustrators, and even playwrights have drawn upon Bunyan's work to create visual and dramatic interpretations of his spiritual allegory.

His iron violin can be found in the Bunyan meeting museum in Bedford

LITERATURE Bunyan wrote over 60 published works, including books, tracts, and children's poetry.  Had he not spent over 12 years in Bedford Prison it is unlikely he would ever been remembered as anything  apart from an effective and successful preacher. Prison gave him time to think, to read and to write. He read and reread the Bible, the Prayer Book, Foxes Book of Martyrs and George Herbert's Devotional Poems. 

By 1656, Bunyan had emerged as a writer, publishing his first work, Some Gospel Truths Opened, a critique of emerging religious sects such as The Quakers.  

In 1660, Bunyan was imprisoned for twelve years for defying preaching restrictions. Unbowed, he used this time productively, writing his autobiography Grace Abounding and laying the groundwork for his most famous work.

During this third imprisonment, in 1675 he penned the first part of his masterpiece, The Pilgrim's Progress. This allegorical tale of Christian's spiritual journey to the Celestial City became a cornerstone of English literature, offering enduring guidance and comfort to countless readers.  

NATURE Bunyan drew inspiration from nature for his writings, including the Barton Hills near Streatley in Bedfordshire, which was the inspiration for the "Delectable Mountains" in Pilgrims' Progress 

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Bunyan's main interests were religious contemplation and writing. In his early life he enjoyed bell ringing, dancing and playing games such as tipcat.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Bunyan was a Particular Baptist with Calvinistic theology. His writings often explored themes of sin, redemption, and divine grace.

John Bunyan's path to faith was a remarkable one. Initially, he led a carefree life, adhering to the traditions of High Anglicanism. However, his first wife introduced him to influential religious texts like Bayley's Practice of Piety and Dent's Plain Man's Pathway to Heaven, which got him thinking. 

Bunyan said he owed his conversion to the fact that he heard three or four old women talking as they sat in the sun. At that time he himself was a "brisk talker" and had a surface veneer of religion. "They were far above out of my reach! Their talk was about new birth, the work of God in their hearts" and of their own righteousness as filthy and insufficient to do them any good. As they thought they spoke, as if joy did make them speak. They spoke with such pleasantness of scripture language. " 

Bunyan's heart began to shake. He described his conversion thus, "One day I was travelling into the country musing on the wickedness of my heart and considering the enmity that was in me to God, the scripture came into my mind 'He hath made peace through the blood of the cross.' I saw that the justice of God and my sinful soul could embrace and kiss each other. I was ready to swoon not with grief and troule but with solid joy and peace."

In 1653, Bunyan formally joined the Bedford Separatist Church. He became a renowned preacher, captivating audiences of over 1,000, even in harsh winter weather. Theologically, he aligned himself with the Particular Baptists, embracing Calvinist doctrines, congregational church governance, and believer's baptism.  However, he held a more open stance on the specific mode of baptism, not insisting on full immersion for church membership.

POLITICS Bunyan's life was heavily influenced by the political turmoil of the English Civil War and the subsequent restoration of the monarchy. He was a Non-conformist preacher, which led to his repeated imprisonments.

IMPRISONMENT John Bunyan spent a significant portion of his life behind bars. As a devout Puritan, he clashed with the Church of England during a period of religious turmoil. His refusal to conform to Anglican practices and his preaching without a license led to his arrest in 1660.  He served twelve years in Bedford Gaol, a harsh experience that nonetheless proved to be a fertile ground for his writing.  During his imprisonment, Bunyan produced many of his important works, including Grace Abounding. The first part of The Pilgrims Progress was written during Bunyan's second spell in jail in 1675.

MILITARY RECORD In 1644, Bunyan was conscripted into the Parliamentary army during the English Civil War. He was stationed in Newport Pagnell but did not engage in battle. While details remain sparse, this experience exposed him to the realities of war and the diverse religious views circulating within the military.  The influence of this exposure would later surface in his writings, particularly The Holy War.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Bunyan was generally healthy until his final illness in 1688, when he died from a violent fever after being caught in a rainstorm.

HOMES Born into a family of tinkers in Elstow, England, Bunyan probably spent his early years in a simple dwelling. Records indicate he resided on St. Cuthbert's Street in Bedford during his more established years as a preacher.

The Bedford county gaol where he was imprisoned 1660-73 was later the home of John Howard, the great prison reformer. 

In 1675 his jail was Bedford Bridge Gaol on a bridge over the River Ouse. 

TRAVEL Bunyan traveled within England, including a notable journey to settle a dispute in Reading shortly before his death.

DEATH In 1688, John Bunyan embarked on a journey to London to visit his friend, grocer John Strudwick. He made a detour to Reading, Berkshire, in an attempt to mediate a dispute between a father and son.  Sadly, his trip was cut short when he was caught in a storm and contracted a fever.  Bunyan succumbed to the illness on August 31, 1688, at Strudwick's house in London.

Bunyan was laid to rest in a tomb belonging to Strudwick at Bunhill Fields, a nonconformist cemetery in London.  At the time of his death, his estate was valued at £42 19s 0d, which is roughly equivalent to £5,200 in today's terms.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA John Bunyan's story and work have been adapted for various media platforms.  There have been film productions, television miniseries, and even video game interpretations of The Pilgrim's Progress.  Its themes even inspired the famous hymn "He Who Would Valiant Be."

ACHIEVEMENTS 1. Pilgrim's Progress has been translated in over 100 languages

2. For the next 150 years after Bunyan's death, his books, like the Bible, were found in every English home;

Sources 1. Great Quotes and Illustrations George Sweeting pg. 93  2. Longman Encyclopaedia of World History. 3. AA Touring Guide of Britain

Warren Buffet

NAME Warren Buffett

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Warren Buffett is renowned for being one of the most successful investors of all time and the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts and his down-to-earth lifestyle despite his immense wealth.

BIRTH Warren Edward Buffett was born on August 30, 1930, in Omaha, Nebraska, USA.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Warren Buffett was born to Howard Buffett, a stockbroker and later a U.S. congressman, and Leila Stahl Buffett. He has two siblings, Doris and Roberta.

CHILDHOOD As a child, Warren showed an early interest in business and investing. He sold chewing gum, Coca-Cola, and weekly magazines door-to-door. He bought his first stock at age 11 and filed his first tax return at 13.

EDUCATION Young Warren Buffett started his schooling at Rose Hill Elementary, a place no doubt filled with eager youngsters yearning for knowledge (or at least free milk).  Then, in 1942, life took a turn  when his dad got himself elected to Congress, whisking the whole Buffett brood off to the nation's capital.

Washington, D.C., wasn't all cherry blossoms and monuments for young Warren.  Sure, there were fancy schools with names like Alice Deal Junior High (one wonders what Alice Deal did to merit such an honor), but there was also the realization that grown-ups, even your own dad, can be surprisingly bad at picking neckties.

By 1947, Warren had graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School, a place that clearly saw his potential, as evidenced by his senior yearbook quote: "likes math; a future stockbroker." A prescient prediction, if ever there was one.  

College, however, proved to be a bit of a roundabout journey.  He first set off for the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, most likely because his father envisioned him in a nice pinstripe suit carrying a briefcase full of important-looking papers.  But Warren, ever the independent soul, wasn't exactly enamored with the theoretical side of business.  He craved the real deal, the thrill of the market, the chance to turn a nickel into a dime (and then a quarter, and then, well, you get the idea).

So, after a couple of years at Wharton he hightailed it back to his home state of Nebraska, where he graduated with a business degree at the ripe old age of 19.  Harvard Business School, the crown jewel of finance education, sniffed at his application, a decision they surely live to regret every single day.  But Buffett, ever resourceful, found his way to Columbia Business School, lured in by the siren song of Benjamin Graham, the man who would become his financial guru.  Here, he finally found his academic haven, graduating with a Master's in Economics in 1951.  And just to make sure he had every financial angle covered, he even went on to attend the New York Institute of Finance.  Clearly, this young man wasn't messing around.

CAREER RECORD Buffet filed his first tax return at age 13, reporting income from his paper route and claiming a $35 deduction for his bicycle. He began his career by purchasing a failing textiles company, Berkshire Hathaway, out of spite after its president lowballed him. Despite considering it his biggest investment mistake, Buffett turned Berkshire Hathaway into a Fortune 500 top 10 company. He spends about 80% of his day reading, a habit he cultivated early in his career, reading 600-1,000 pages daily.

APPEARANCE Warren Buffett is often seen in conservative business attire, typically a suit and tie. He is known for his approachable and unpretentious demeanor.

Warren Buffett at the 2015 SelectUSA Investment Summit

FASHION Buffett’s fashion style is simple and traditional, reflecting his pragmatic approach to life and business.

CHARACTER Buffett is known for his integrity, patience, and long-term perspective on investing. He is also famous for his humility and frugality despite his wealth.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Buffett has a well-known sense of humor, often making self-deprecating jokes and witty remarks. For example, he once paid for a meal at McDonald's for Bill Gates using coupons.

RELATIONSHIPS Buffet married Susan Thompson in 1952 at the Dundee Presbyterian Church in Omaha. In 1977 she left her husband and moved in with her paramour, John McCabe, but she and Buffet remained married until her death in 2004. They had three children: Susie, Howard, and Peter. 

His son Peter once thought his dad's job was checking security alarm systems, unaware of his father's true occupation and wealth.

On August 30, 2006 (his 76th birthday) Buffet married his longtime companion, Astrid Menks, whom he'd been introduced to by Susan. 

He plans to give most of his wealth to charity, leaving only a small portion to his children to ensure they can do anything but not nothing.

MONEY AND FAME As of June 2024, he had a net worth of $135 billion, making him the tenth-richest person in the world.

Buffett, with his economics background polished to a shine at the New York Institute of Finance, was never destined for a life of filing invoices.  The business bug bit him young, and soon he was buzzing around like a particularly enthusiastic bumblebee, starting ventures left and right.  One such venture involved his financial guru Benjamin Graham.

In 1956, Buffett decided to strike out on his own, forming Buffett Partnership Ltd.  This wasn't some fly-by-night operation in a converted broom closet, mind you.  This was a company with a plan, a dream, and an ever-so-slightly peculiar destiny. Because, wouldn't you know it, this illustrious firm ended up acquiring a textile manufacturing company called Berkshire Hathaway.  Who knew that itchy sweaters would be the springboard to financial superstardom?

Buffett, ever the shrewd fellow, saw the potential in Berkshire Hathaway beyond its questionable fashion sense.  He transformed it into a diversified holding company, a financial octopus with its tentacles wrapped around a variety of businesses.  And by 1970, he was the undisputed king of this financial fiefdom, chairman and majority shareholder.  A natural-born leader, you might say, though perhaps a touch less flamboyant than a king typically is (unless you count his fondness for Cherry Coke, which some might consider a fashion faux pas).

In 1978, he was joined by his long-time associate Charlie Munger, a fellow financial whiz who no doubt brought his own brand of brilliance (and possibly a slightly more adventurous sock collection) to the table.  Together, they steered Berkshire Hathaway to even greater heights, turning it into one of America's most formidable holding companies.

Buffett, the "Oracle of Omaha" as some called him (though he probably preferred "Savvy Investor with a Penchant for Sensible Shoes"), became a legend in the financial world.  His fortune grew like kudzu vines on a humid summer day, yet he remained a man of simple tastes – a testament to his value investing philosophy.

This wasn't just about accumulating wealth for Buffett, though.  He pledged to give away a whopping 99% of his fortune to philanthropy, a move that would make Scrooge McDuck himself blush.  He even started a club with Bill Gates – The Giving Pledge, how very literal – to encourage other billionaires to loosen their purse strings. 

FOOD AND DRINK Buffett is known for his simple tastes, favoring hamburgers, Coca-Cola, and Dairy Queen treats.

MUSIC AND ARTS Buffet has a passion for ukulele music and occasionally performs at shareholder meetings and events.

In 2024 Buffet recorded a duet version of "My Way" with Paul Anka. The American businessman is a friend of the "Diana" singer and requested a special favor from him. Buffet asked Anka to perform with him on a cover of the Frank Sinatra ballad. "He's going to play it at his funeral," said Anka. 

LITERATURE Buffett is an avid reader, consuming a vast array of books, newspapers, and financial reports daily. He spends about 80% of his day reading, a habit he cultivated early in his career, reading 600-1,000 pages daily

NATURE While not particularly known for his engagement with nature, Buffett's philanthropic efforts include significant contributions to environmental causes.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Buffett enjoys playing bridge, a game he often plays with Bill Gates. He also has a passion for golf.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Buffett's investment strategies heavily rely on mathematical principles and statistical analysis.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Buffett’s philosophy centers on value investing, integrity, and long-term thinking. 

Warren Buffet is part of "The Good Club" a group of billionaires giving away massive amounts of money to charitable causes. The secrecy surrounding the group's meetings and decision-making processes raises concerns about accountability.

Warren Buffett has been open about being agnostic. He clarifies that he's not an atheist (disbelieving in God) or a theist (believing in God). He simply doesn't have a definitive answer.

POLITICS Originally a Republican, Buffett became an active Democrat, influenced by his first wife's involvement in the civil rights movement.

SCANDAL Warren Buffett's career has been relatively scandal-free. His biggest acknowledged mistake was purchasing Berkshire Hathaway out of spite, a decision he later regretted.

Some criticize the idea of "The Good Club" as a small group of wealthy individuals dictating solutions for global problems. The belief by some right-wing blogs that the group promotes forced sterilization is a serious accusation. 

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Buffett's health has been relatively stable. He underwent treatment for prostate cancer in 2012 but has maintained an active lifestyle.

HOMES Buffett resides in a 6,000 square-foot home in Omaha, Nebraska, which he purchased in 1958 for $31,500 (about $250,000 today).

Buffett's home in Omaha, Nebraska

TRAVEL Buffett's travel is often related to his business engagements and philanthropic activities, though he is known to keep a relatively low profile.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Buffett has been featured in numerous books, documentaries, and interviews, highlighting his investment philosophy and life story.

ACHIEVEMENTS Buffett's achievements include transforming Berkshire Hathaway into a multibillion-dollar conglomerate, co-founding The Giving Pledge, and being recognized as one of the greatest investors of all time.

Buffett has won numerous accolades, including a $1 million bet that a simple index fund would outperform hedge funds over a decade, a bet he won and donated the proceeds to charity. He co-founded The Giving Pledge with Bill Gates, encouraging billionaires to donate at least half their wealth to charitable causes.

The Buddha

NAME Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as The Buddha

WHAT FAMOUS FOR  The Buddha is famous for founding Buddhism, one of the world's major religions. He is revered for his teachings on enlightenment, suffering, and the path to spiritual liberation.

BIRTH Siddhartha Gautama was born around 563 BC in Lumbini, in present-day Nepal. Siddhartha's life is shrouded in a mix of history and legend.  Some traditions claim he was born under a full moon in May, and the exact location was supposedly identified in 1996.

FAMILY BACKGROUND His father, a wise ruler, sheltered Siddhartha from the harsh realities of life, hoping he would become a powerful king.

Legend tells us that Siddhartha's mother, Maya Devi, dreamt of a white elephant entering her womb before his birth. Sadly, she passed away shortly after. Raised by his stepmother in luxury, Siddhartha exhibited an early interest in meditation and contemplation, much to his father's dismay.  Prophecies at his birth predicted he would either be a great king or a holy man, and his father tried to steer him towards a worldly path.

CHILDHOOD Little Buddha was very much sheltered from the outside world as a child. His birth was accompanied by earthquakes and thunder. As soon as Gautama was born he took 7 steps and said "I am the chief of the world." 

The new-born child was reputedly examined by Brahmans, who predicted his destiny as either a universal monarch or a Buddha. The Buddha apparently showed an early inclination to meditation and reflection, displeasing his father, who wanted him to be a warrior and ruler rather than a religious philosopher. In his own discourses, the Buddha recalled that he meditated and entered his first trance while still a boy. 

During the birth celebrations, a seer announced that this baby would either become a great king or a great holy man. His father, wishing for Gautama to be a great king, shielded his son from religious teachings or knowledge of human suffering.

EDUCATION Siddhartha received an education befitting a prince, learning about governance, warfare, and the arts. He was also trained in various physical disciplines.

CAREER RECORD Initially groomed to be a king, Gautama's career path changed dramatically when he renounced his royal duties and embarked on a spiritual quest. He spent years as an ascetic before attaining enlightenment and becoming a spiritual teacher.

APPEARANCE The Buddha is traditionally depicted as having a serene and composed demeanor, with elongated earlobes, a symbol of his royal past, and a topknot (ushnisha) on his head, symbolizing his spiritual wisdom.

Remarkably handsome with closely curled hair as a youngster, at the age of 29 on leaving his family and having renounced his heirship of kingdom he shaved off his hair. 

The Digha Nikaya, a foundational Pali Buddhist text, provides detailed physical attributes of the Buddha. It describes him as exceptionally proportioned, with elongated limbs, hands, and face. His hair was dark and tightly curled, his eyes wide and strikingly blue. His complexion was luminous, with a golden hue and a subtle pink tint beneath his nails.

After 6 years fasting in the desert the Buddha was little more than skin and bone. After that he ate one admittingly fairly substantial meal a day. So the depictions of a plump Buddha seem somewhat unrealistic. 

The Buddha, Tapa Shotor monastery in Hadda, Afghanistan, 2nd century AD By Marek Gawęcki 

FASHION In his early years, Gautama wore the luxurious garments of a prince. After renunciation, he adopted the simple robes of an ascetic, typically made of humble materials.

After his enlightenment the Buddha decreed out of personal humility that no one would make an image of him or paint him. However one artist seeing him deep in contemplation on banks of Ganges at Benares got round it by painting his reflection in the Ganges. Hence many representations of the youthful Buddha have folds in the garments known as the ripple effect.

CHARACTER The Buddha was known for his compassion, wisdom, and equanimity. His character was marked by a deep sense of inner peace and a commitment to alleviating the suffering of all beings. He was not, however, past exasperation when monks of his order misrepresented his teachings. 

SENSE OF HUMOUR While specific instances of humor are not well-documented, the Buddha's teachings often reflect a gentle and compassionate approach, indicating a kind and understanding personality.

RELATIONSHIPS  Following tradition, Siddhartha Gautama married his young cousin Yasodhara at the age of 28. They had a son, Rahula, whose name signifies "bond." Despite his comfortable life and loving family, Siddhartha felt a deep yearning for something more.

Thích Nhất Hạnh, a prominent Buddhist monk, suggests Siddhartha may not have experienced unrequited love, but rather a recognition that worldly desires, including romantic love, lead to suffering.  This concept aligns with his later teachings on overcoming suffering through detachment.

Driven by his quest for understanding suffering, Siddhartha left his family and palace life at the age of 29. This decision wasn't about abandoning his wife and son, but about pursuing a path to enlightenment that could ultimately benefit all beings.

Ananda, considered Siddhartha's closest disciple, shared a deep spiritual connection with him. While their relationship was platonic, Ananda  played a vital role in spreading the Buddha's teachings. The Buddha, recognizing the potential for spiritual growth in all beings, advocated for the establishment of a separate order for women to pursue monastic life.

MONEY AND FAME After renouncing his royal life, Siddhartha embraced a life of simplicity, owning no personal wealth. His teachings and insights gradually gained recognition, though it took centuries for Buddhism to spread beyond its initial region.

INTERESTS    FOOD AND DRINK Following a period of extreme asceticism, the Buddha adopted a moderate approach, consuming one substantial meal a day and a light supper.  The circumstances surrounding his final meal remain unclear, with accounts differing on whether it was tainted pork or a mushroom dish.

MUSIC AND ARTS The Buddha appreciated the arts for their ability to uplift and inspire but cautioned against attachment to sensory pleasures.

LITERATURE The Buddha left no written (or recorded) record of his philosophy. The Buddha's teachings were initially transmitted orally and later written down in various scriptures, known as sutras. These texts form the basis of Buddhist literature. Here's a breakdown of the main Buddhist canons:

Pali Canon:  This is the canon used by Theravada Buddhism, the oldest surviving Buddhist school.  It's considered the most complete collection of early Buddhist teachings and is preserved in the Pali language.  The Sri Lankan version is indeed the most complete surviving version of the Pali Canon.

Chinese Buddhist Canon:  This vast collection of scriptures is used by Mahayana Buddhism, the dominant form of Buddhism in East Asia. It includes texts translated from Sanskrit and Chinese originals, along with commentaries and additional Mahayana sutras not found in the Pali Canon.

Tibetan Buddhist Canon:  Known as the Tibetan Tripitaka, this canon is used by Tibetan Buddhism. It includes translations of Indian Buddhist texts, along with uniquely Tibetan works and commentaries.

NATURE The Buddha often taught in natural settings, like forests and groves, finding them conducive to meditation and spiritual practice. He expressed deep respect for all forms of life.

According to Buddhist texts, Siddhartha Gautama rode a white horse named Kanthaka when he left his palace to embark on his journey toward enlightenment. Kanthaka is well-known in Buddhist lore for carrying Siddhartha out of the palace on the night of his renunciation. After Siddhartha dismounted and began his ascetic life, it is said that Kanthaka died out of sorrow and was reborn in a higher realm.

A fable about an event in Buddha's life explains the use of the 12 animals after which the Chinese years are named. Buddha had extended an invitation to all living creatures but only 12 of them answered his call. They were the dog, dragon, horse, monkey, ox, pig, rat, rabbit, rooster, sheep, snake and tiger. As a reward Buddha commemorated their visit by naming a year after each of them. The sequence of the years was determined by a cross-country race between these very animals and is the order in which they reached the finish.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Before his renunciation, Siddhartha engaged in activities typical for a prince, including martial arts and other physical pursuits. 

Siddharta Gautama was reported to have been athletic and fit throughout his life, competent in martial arts such as chariot combat, wrestling, and archery, and later easily hiking miles each day and camping in the wilderness

Afterward, his primary focus was on meditation and teaching.

SCIENCE AND MATHS The Buddha's teachings do not specifically address science and mathematics but emphasize a rational and experiential approach to understanding the nature of reality.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY The Buddha's philosophy centered on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which address the nature of suffering and the path to liberation. His teachings form the foundation of Buddhist theology and philosophy.

Despite the opulent life of a prince, Siddhartha Gautama felt a deep spiritual yearning.  His father, fearing he would abandon the throne for a religious path, shielded him from the realities of suffering. However, this attempt failed.

During a sanctioned outing, Siddhartha witnessed the harsh realities of life: an old man, a sick person, and a corpse (one of these options can be chosen). This encounter sparked a profound question: "What is the cause of suffering?"  This marked the beginning of his quest for enlightenment.

Driven by his newfound purpose, Siddhartha left his family and palace at the age of 29. He initially pursued extreme asceticism, fasting and self-denial for six years. However, he eventually realized this path wasn't the answer.

Seeking a middle way, Siddhartha sat in meditation under a Bodhi tree (also known as a fig tree). There, he achieved enlightenment, a state of perfect wisdom and liberation from suffering.  Through meditation, he discovered the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, a guide to ending suffering.

The Four Noble Truths are:

The truth of suffering: Life inherently involves suffering.

The truth of the cause of suffering: Suffering arises from craving and attachment.

The truth of the end of suffering: Suffering can be overcome.

The truth of the path to the end of suffering: The Eightfold Path leads to the end of suffering

.

The Eightfold Path consists of eight practices:

Right View

Right Intention

Right Speech

Right Action

Right Livelihood

Right Effort

Right Mindfulness

Right Concentration

Following this path leads to Nirvana, a state of liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.

Following his enlightenment, Siddhartha, now known as the Buddha, felt compelled to share his insights.  His first sermon, "Turning the Wheel of the Law," delivered to five former companions, marked the birth of Buddhism.  This sermon holds a similar significance for Buddhists as the Sermon on the Mount does for Christians. 

The Buddha established an order of monks to help him spread his teachings.  He eventually returned home and converted his family, including his father.  The concept of Karma, the law of cause and effect, is a core principle of Buddhism. Every action has a corresponding reaction, leading to a cycle of rebirth until enlightenment is achieved.

SCANDAL The Buddha's long career as teacher and leader was not entirely trouble-free. Rival religious groups, especially the followers of Jainism, reportedly attacked his teachings and even the Buddha himself. Devadatta, the Buddha's cousin and disciple, sought revenge after being thwarted in his ambition to inherit leadership of the sangha (monastic community), first engineering assassination attempts, then creating a short-lived schism in the sangha. 

MILITARY RECORD Siddhartha had training in martial arts as part of his princely education, but he never engaged in military conflict and later taught non-violence.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS The Buddha maintained good health through a disciplined lifestyle, including meditation, moderate eating, and simple living. However, towards the end of his life, he experienced physical ailments.

HOMES Siddhartha lived in palaces during his early life. After renunciation, he had no permanent home, often residing in monasteries, forests, and under trees.

The Bo tree was near Buddh Gaya. A descendant of the Bo tree is preserved today.

A wealthy admirer subsidized the construction of a monastery at Savatthi (Sanskrit, Sravasti), which became the Buddha's main residence and the center of his teaching efforts. Additionally, other monasteries were established in major cities along the Ganges River.

TRAVEL As a prince, Siddhartha traveled extensively and engaged in discussions with many of the leading Hindu teachers of his time.

At the age of 29, Gautama, escorted by his attendant Channa, made four successive visits outside the palace. During these journeys, he encountered the "four sights": an old crippled man, a diseased man, a decaying corpse, and finally, an ascetic. These experiences revealed to him the harsh truths of life—death, disease, aging, and pain were inevitable, the poor outnumbered the wealthy, and even the pleasures of the rich were ultimately fleeting.

After achieving enlightenment, he traveled throughout northern India, spreading his message and teachings.

DEATH The Buddha's final days are shrouded in some uncertainty. Accounts differ on the cause of his death at the age of 80 in Kusinagara, India.  Some traditions say he suffered food poisoning, possibly from tainted pork or a mushroom dish.

Despite his illness, the Buddha's final moments were marked by serenity. He offered his last teachings and comforted his disciples. His famous last words, "All things must pass away. Strive for your own salvation with diligence,"  encourage self-reliance on the path to enlightenment.

The exact dates of the Buddha's life and death remain a subject of scholarly debate.  Theravada Buddhist countries place his death around 543 BC, while other sources suggest a date closer to 480 BC.

Following his death, the Buddha's body was cremated, and his ashes were divided and enshrined in eight stupas throughout India. These monuments became important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Sri Lanka houses a revered relic believed to be one of the Buddha's teeth. This exemplifies the devotion Buddhists hold for their founder.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA The Buddha has been depicted in numerous works of art, literature, and film, reflecting his profound influence on culture and spirituality worldwide. They include:

(1) Tumble dolls were first made by the Chinese in the image of Buddha with weighted buttons to illustrate that Buddha could not fall 

(2) Edwin Arnold's "Light of Asia" 1879 tells story of Buddha in blank verse. 

(3) Played by teen idol Keanu Reeves in Little Buddha 1994 . It was a little success.

(4) Siddhartha 1922 by Herman Hesse was a novel based on Buddha's early years.

(5) The world's largest statue of Buddha is the Spring Temple Buddha located in Zhaocun Township, Lushan County, China. It stands at an impressive height of 153 meters (502 feet)  including the pedestal. 

(6)  The Human League's 1978 song "Being Boiled" uses dark and disturbing imagery, including references to killing, suffering, and boiling alive.  It's a scathing critique of the silkworm industry, drawing an implicit connection between the violent process of silk production and the Buddhist ideal of non-violence.

Listen to the voice of Buddha

Saying stop your sericulture

Little people like your offspring

Boiled alive for some Gods stocking

Buddha's watching, Buddha's waiting

(7) Richard Wagner attempted all his life to write "Die Sieger" (The Victors) based on the life of Buddha but never succeeded. 

ACHIEVEMENTS 1. Strongly developed monasticism before the Christian era began.

2. The Buddha's teachings continue to inspire millions across the globe. Estimates suggest there are between 520 million and 535 million adherents of Buddhism worldwide today,  which represents roughly  7% to 8% of the global population.

Sources (1) 4000 Amazing Trivial Facts. (2) World Famous Rebels by Charles Connell (3) Columbiacommunityconnection, (4) Microsoft Encarta