Ian Botham

NAME Ian Terence Botham

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Ian Botham is famous for being one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of cricket, known for his exceptional skills as both a batsman and a bowler.

BIRTH Ian Botham was born on November 24, 1955, in Heswall, Cheshire, England.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Ian Botham comes from a sporting family. His father, Herbert Leslie Botham, played cricket and football, while his mother, Violet Marie, supported his early interest in sports.

CHILDHOOD Ian grew up in Yeovil, Somerset, where he developed a passion for sports at an early age. He played cricket, football, and other sports during his childhood.

EDUCATION Ian Botham attended Buckler’s Mead Comprehensive School in Yeovil, but his focus on sports led him to leave school at 16 to pursue a career in cricket.

CAREER RECORD  Ian Botham had an illustrious cricket career, playing for England from 1977 to 1992. He scored 5,200 runs and took 383 wickets in Test matches. He also played for Somerset, Worcestershire, and Durham in county cricket.

After retiring from cricket, Botham worked as an analyst and commentator for Sky Sports for many years.

APPEARANCE Ian Botham is known for his robust and athletic build, standing 6 feet 2 inches tall. During his playing days, he sported a distinctive moustache and a thick head of hair. He is also known fondly as Beefy and Guy the Gorilla due to his large build.

Botham in 2013. By Nic Redhead - Flickr: Sky Team

FASHION Botham’s fashion sense was casual and practical, often seen in sportswear and cricket whites. Off the field, he preferred relaxed and comfortable clothing.

CHARACTER Ian Botham is characterized by his competitive spirit, determination, and resilience. He is known for his leadership qualities and his ability to inspire his teammates.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Botham is known for his sharp wit and sense of humour, often using it to defuse tense situations and build camaraderie among his teammates.

RELATIONSHIPS Ian Botham married Kathryn Waller in 1976. Their marriage has had its fair share of turbulence. In 1992, Ian publicly confessed to having an affair with an Australian waitress, a revelation that nearly ended their marriage. However, his heartfelt public apology and commitment to making amends helped the couple navigate through the crisis.

The couple have three children: Liam, Sarah, and Becky. Botham’s family has been a strong support system throughout his career. 

Liam followed his father in becoming a county cricketer before switching to rugby.  Liam played both codes: Rugby Union or West Hartlepool and Rugby League: for Leeds Rhinos, London Broncos and Wigan Warriors,

MONEY AND FAME Ian Botham’s successful cricket career brought him significant wealth and fame. He became a popular public figure, endorsed various brands, and engaged in numerous business ventures.

FOOD AND DRINK Botham enjoys traditional British cuisine and is known to appreciate a good meal. He is also fond of wine and has even ventured into winemaking.

MUSIC AND ARTS Ian Botham has an eclectic taste in music, enjoying both classic rock and contemporary hits. He appreciates the arts, often attending events and supporting cultural activities.

LITERATURE Botham has written several books, including autobiographies and books on cricket. He is also an avid reader, enjoying both fiction and non-fiction.

NATURE Botham has a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife. He is an advocate for conservation and has participated in various environmental initiatives.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Ian Botham, often revered as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket's long and storied history, is a figure of almost mythic proportions. Consider, for instance, his legendary performance against Pakistan at Lord's on June 19, 1978. This day is now immortalized in cricket lore, and for good reason. Botham scored a blistering 149 runs and took 8 wickets in the same innings, a feat that had never been accomplished before in Test match cricket. To fully appreciate this, one must understand the context: England were teetering on the brink of a series defeat, having lost the first Test to Pakistan. The visitors, buoyed by their initial triumph, were poised to secure a 2-0 lead. Enter Botham, whose swashbuckling batting and lethal bowling turned the tide dramatically. His explosive innings and versatile bowling dismantled the Pakistani lineup, inspiring his teammates and leading England to a resounding victory by an innings and 55 runs.

Yet, this was but a prelude to what would become known as Botham’s Ashes. Fast forward to the summer of 1981 at Headingley. England, facing Australia, were in dire straits, with bookmakers offering 500-1 odds against an English win. On the fourth day of the Test, with England staring down the barrel of defeat, Botham played what can only be described as an innings for the ages. His 149 not-out not only snatched victory from the jaws of defeat but also cemented his place as a cricketing legend.

Such heroics became a hallmark of Botham's career. He achieved the rare double of scoring a century and taking five wickets in an innings in the same Test match on five separate occasions. To put that into perspective, no other player has managed this feat more than three times. In 102 Tests for England between 1977 and 1992, Botham amassed over 5,000 runs and took more than 300 wickets, becoming the first player in Test cricket to do so. He once held the record for the highest number of Test wickets taken by an England player, with 383 to his name. His first-class cricket stats are equally impressive: 19,399 runs at an average of 33.97, 1,172 wickets at 27.22, and 354 catches.

Botham made 28 appearances in the Football League playing centre half for Yeovil and Scunthorpe.

Apart from cricket, Botham enjoys golf, fishing, and shooting. He is also known for his charitable walks across the UK, raising money for leukemia research.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Botham respects the importance of these fields and supports educational initiatives.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Botham’s philosophy revolves around hard work, perseverance, and giving back to the community. He is a supporter of various charitable causes and believes in making a positive impact.

POLITICS  Ian Botham was appointed to the House of Lords as a life peer in 2020 as part of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's honors list.  He sits as a crossbench (independent) peer in the House of Lords. This means he is not affiliated with any particular political party.

Baron Botham of Ravensworth, made his maiden speech in the House of Lords on November 3, 2020. In a four-minute address to the House of Lords delivered remotely via video link. He urged the government to allow spectators back into sports grounds "in a controlled and safe manner," called for 100% rate relief for community sports clubs to help them cope with the effects of coronavirus and highlighted the negative impact of COVID-19 on charities and medical research.

SCANDAL Ian Botham’s career had its share of controversies, including clashes with cricket authorities and the media. He also faced allegations of drug use, and in 1986 he was suspended for 63 days for smoking cannabis

MILITARY RECORD Botham has been a strong supporter of the armed forces, participating in charity events for veterans.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Despite injuries during his career, Botham maintained a high level of physical fitness. Post-retirement, he continues to stay active through sports.

Botham has been a prodigious fundraiser for charitable causes, particularly inspired after a poignant visit to Taunton's Musgrove Park Hospital. While being treated for a broken toe, he accidentally wandered into a children's ward and was devastated to learn that some of the young patients had only weeks to live. This encounter spurred him into action, leading to a series of long-distance charity walks—12 in total—raising millions for leukemia research and other causes. His remarkable contributions to both cricket and charity earned him a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in 2007 at Buckingham Palace.

HOMES Ian Botham has lived in various locations in the UK, and now lives in Ravensworth in North Yorkshire, He enjoys country living and has a keen interest in property development. Botham also owns property in Almería, where he frequently plays golf.

TRAVEL Botham’s cricket career took him around the world. He continues to travel extensively for charity work, media appearances, and personal leisure.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Botham has been a prominent figure in the media, working as a cricket commentator and analyst. 

He has also appeared on various TV shows and documentaries including a team captain on the BBC sports quiz show A Question of Sport between 1988–1996.

ACHIEVEMENTS Ian Botham’s achievements include being knighted in 2007 for his services to cricket and charity. He is regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time and has left a lasting legacy both on and off the field.

He was created Baron Botham, of Ravensworth in the County of North Yorkshire on September 10, 2020 and made his maiden speech in the House of Lords on November 3.

Alexander Borodin

NAME Alexander Porfiryevich Borodin

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Borodin was a renowned Romantic composer and chemist of Georgian-Russian extraction, celebrated for his symphonies, string quartets, and the opera "Prince Igor". His work in organic chemistry, particularly his research on aldehydes, also marks him as a notable scientist.

BIRTH Born on November 12, 1833, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, Borodin was the illegitimate son of a Georgian nobleman and a Russian woman.

FAMILY BACKGROUND He was the illegitimate son of Prince Luka Gedianov, an elderly Georgian prince, and Avdotya Konstantinovna Antonova, who was married to an army doctor. To save any public embarrassment, he was registered under the name of one of the Prince’s serfs, Pofiry Borodin. His parents ensured that Borodin was reared in comfortable circumstances despite his illegitimacy.

CHILDHOOD Young Borodin received a good education through private tutors at home, fostering his early gift for languages and music. He was fascinated by chemistry experiments (including fireworks!).

EDUCATION He studied at the Medico-Surgical Academy from 1850 to 1856, specializing in chemistry, and earned a doctorate in 1858. Further studies in Western Europe from 1859 to 1862 solidified his scientific expertise.

CAREER RECORD Borodin became an adjunct professor of chemistry at the Medico-Surgical Academy and was later promoted to full professor in 1864. He is also known for founding medical courses for women in 1872.

Borodin composed prolifically despite his demanding scientific career, often working on music during free time or periods of illness.

APPEARANCE Descriptions of Borodin often note his robust stature and expressive eyes, reflecting the intensity of both his scientific and musical passions. He was described as having a kind and gentle face.

Borodin, c. 1865

FASHION He dressed in a manner befitting a professor and a gentleman of his era.

CHARACTER Borodin was known for his optimism, intelligence, and dedication to both his scientific and musical pursuits. He was described as a kind and generous individual, actively involved in social causes.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Anecdotes suggest that Borodin had a warm sense of humour, often reflected in his musical compositions and personal correspondences.

RELATIONSHIPS He married pianist Ekaterina Protopopova in 1863 and the couple adopted several daughters. Ekaterina continually battled with asthma and had very unusual sleeping habits (4am to 2pm) 

MONEY AND FAME While Borodin did not seek fame, his contributions to both science and music have posthumously earned him a celebrated place in history.

FOOD AND DRINK Borodin likely enjoyed traditional Russian dishes like shchi (cabbage soup), borscht (beet soup), pelmeni (dumplings), and kasha (buckwheat porridge). Given his travels to Western Europe, he might have incorporated European dishes like roasted meats, stews, and pastries into his diet.

Tea was a popular beverage in Russia during the 19th century, and Borodin likely enjoyed it throughout the day.

MUSIC AND ARTS Borodin was passionate about music from a young age, playing piano, flute, and cello.

He advocated for a distinct national identity in Russian music, composing works that incorporated folk elements and epic storytelling.

Borodin was a member of "The Five", a group dedicated to creating a uniquely Russian style of classical music. His compositions showcase his nationalistic style.

In 1862, Borodin apprenticed himself to the formidable Mily Balakirev, diving headfirst into the world of composition. While under Balakirev's tutelage in composition he began his Symphony No. 1 in E flat major, which was first performed in 1869.

Word of Borodin's brilliance soon wafted out of Russia, tickling the ears of the legendary Franz Liszt. The great composer took Borodin under his wing, championing his music wherever he could. This encouragement fueled Borodin's creative fire, and he poured his heart into his symphonic picture, "In the Steppes of Central Asia." This piece showcased his unique flair for the exotic, taking his musical explorations to new frontiers of poetic expression.

But Borodin's crowning achievement, in the eyes of many, is his epic opera, "Prince Igor." Considered a landmark of Russian opera, it boasts the showstopping "Polovtsian Dances," which have become a concert hall favorite – and arguably Borodin's most recognizable work. He toiled away at "Prince Igor" for years, pouring his soul into the project. Tragically, it remained unfinished at his death in 1887. Thankfully, the baton was picked up by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Alexander Glazunov, who polished the gem and brought Borodin's vision to the stage.

LITERATURE Borodin was well-read, as evidenced by his extensive education and the intellectual circles he frequented.

NATURE His love for nature is evident in the pastoral and evocative landscapes he painted with his music.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Aside from music and scientific research, Borodin enjoyed attending social gatherings and engaging in intellectual discussions.

SCIENCE AND MATHS At the same time as writing his First Symphony, Borodin was also fulfilling his duties as Professor at the Medio-Surgical Academy in St Petersburg, and he helped to set up the first medical courses for women in Russia.

Borodin was one of the foremost chemists of his time, being particularly noted for his work on aldehydes. In 1872 he announced to the Russian Chemical Society the discovery of a new by-product in aldehyde reactions with alcohol-like properties.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Borodin's commitment to education and progress suggests a forward-thinking mindset.

SCANDAL Borodin's life was relatively free of scandal, with his illegitimate birth being the most notable exception.

MILITARY RECORD Borodin did not serve in the miltary

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Borodin suffered from poor health in his later years, including cholera and heart problems.

HOMES He grew up in a large four-storey house provided by his Georgian father, reflecting his comfortable upbringing despite his illegitimate status.

TRAVEL Borodin traveled to Western Europe for his studies, which influenced his scientific and musical development.

DEATH He passed away suddenly of a heart attack on February 27, 1887, while attending a ball at the Medico-Surgical Academy in Saint Petersburg. Borodin was just 53-years old. 

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Borodin's music has been featured in various forms of media, including films and television, often embodying the essence of Russian Romanticism.

ACHIEVEMENTS Among his many achievements, Borodin is remembered for his symphonies, his role in advancing organic chemistry, and his advocacy for women's education in medicine.

Lucrezia Borgia

NAME Lucrezia Borgia

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Lucrezia Borgia is famous for being a prominent and controversial figure during the Italian Renaissance. She was a member of the notorious Borgia family and is often remembered for her marriages, political alliances, and the scandals that surrounded her life.

BIRTH Lucrezia Borgia was born on April 18, 1480, in Subiaco, a town near Rome, Italy.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Lucrezia was the daughter of Rodrigo Borgia (later Pope Alexander VI) and his mistress Vannozza dei Cattanei. She was part of the influential and infamous Borgia family, known for their political maneuvering and power within the Catholic Church.

CHILDHOOD Lucrezia spent her early years in Rome, surrounded by luxury and the intrigues of her father's rise to power. Her childhood was marked by the political aspirations of her family. She developed a love for the arts and music

EDUCATION Lucrezia received an excellent education, typical for a young noblewoman of her time. She was well-versed in Latin, Greek, Italian, French, and Spanish, and was also knowledgeable in literature, music, and the arts.

CAREER RECORD Although women of her time rarely held formal careers, Lucrezia played significant roles in political and social spheres through her marriages and familial connections. She acted as a diplomat and administrator, especially during her time as Duchess of Ferrara. She briefly served as Governor of Spoleto. 

APPEARANCE Contemporary accounts describe Lucrezia as being beautiful, with blonde hair that fell past her knees, blue eyes, a full, high bosom, and a fair complexion. 

Possible portrait of Lucrezia as St Catherine of Alexandria in a fresco by Pinturicchio,

FASHION Lucrezia was known for her elegant and fashionable attire, often setting trends at the courts she lived in. She wore luxurious fabrics and elaborate gowns, befitting her status.

The Renaissance was a time when cosmetics were all the rage, and Lucrezia Borgia embraced the trend. Mudpacks were her weapon of choice against wrinkles, and a pale complexion, achieved with liberal applications of powder, was the ultimate status symbol.

CHARACTER Historical records depict Lucrezia as charming, intelligent, and diplomatic. However, her character has been widely debated due to the scandals associated with her family.

SENSE OF HUMOUR It can be inferred that she possessed a wit and charm necessary for navigating the complex social and political environments of her time.

RELATIONSHIPS Lucrezia Borgia was basically a pawn in a game of political chess played by her ruthless father and brother, Cesare. She was engaged aged 10 and 11 (both annulled) before marrying Giovanni Sforza, Lord of Pesaro aged 13 on June 12, 1493. The marriage was later annulled by her dear old dad, who clearly had other plans for her.

By 18, she was hitched once more to the Neapolitan Alfonso of Aragon, but this time, things took a turn for the worse. Her husband was murdered, allegedly on the orders of her brother Cesare,. 

Thankfully, her third and final marriage to Alfonso d'Este, heir to the Duchy of Ferrara, in early 1502 proved more stable, though bother husband and wife ere faithful. She had eight children during this marriage, including Isabella d'Este, a renowned Renaissance figure.

Lucrezia maintained close relationships with her family, particularly her brother Cesare.

MONEY AND FAME As a member of the Borgia family and through her marriages, Lucrezia had access to significant wealth and power. Her notoriety and the intrigues surrounding her life also made her famous across Europe.

FOOD AND DRINK As a noblewoman, she would have enjoyed a rich and varied diet typical of the Renaissance elite, including fine wines and elaborate banquets.

A new Italian egg pasta in the form of flat ribbons called tagliatelle was supposedly inspired by a nobleman's love for Lucrezia's hair. 

MUSIC AND ARTS Lucrezia was a patron of the arts and enjoyed music. Her court in Ferrara was known for its cultural sophistication and patronage of authors and artists like Ariosto and Titian..

LITERATURE Lucrezia was well-read and appreciated literature. She likely enjoyed classical works and contemporary Renaissance literature.

NATURE She likely appreciated gardens and natural beauty, common interests among Renaissance nobility.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS As a noblewoman, Lucrezia would have engaged in activities such as hunting, horseback riding, and possibly falconry, which were popular among the elite. She also likely participated in courtly games and entertainment

SCIENCE AND MATHS Her broad education would have included some exposure to these fields.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Lucrezia was raised in a deeply religious and politically influential family within the Catholic Church. She would have been knowledgeable about contemporary philosophical and theological debates. Lucrezia may have been influenced by the humanist movement

SCANDAL Lucrezia's life was marred by scandal, much of it related to her family's notorious reputation. Rumors of incest, murder, and political conspiracies surrounded her, although historical debate continues regarding the extent of her involvement. 

Possible Lucrezia portrait painted from life (attributed to Dosso Dossi, c. 1519

MILITARY RECORD Lucrezia was involved in political and diplomatic efforts that had military implications and may have played a supportive role in her brother Cesare's military campaigns

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS She lived through several pregnancies and the rigors of Renaissance court life, and died at the relatively young age of 39.

HOMES Lucrezia lived in several impressive residences, including the Vatican, the ducal palaces in Ferrara, and various other estates associated with her family's influence.

TRAVEL Lucrezia traveled extensively due to her marriages and family connections, moving between Rome, Pesaro, Naples, and Ferrara.

DEATH Lucrezia Borgia died on June 24, 1519, in Ferrara, Italy, likely from complications following childbirth.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Lucrezia Borgia has been portrayed in numerous books, films, and television series, often highlighting the dramatic and scandalous aspects of her life. Notable portrayals include those in the 2011-2013 TV series The Borgias where she was played by Holliday Grainger and various historical novels.

The English rock band Sisters Of Mercy released a 1988 single "Lucretia My Reflection" titled after Lucrezia Borgia

ACHIEVEMENTS Despite the controversies, Lucrezia Borgia managed to navigate the complex political landscape of her time, securing significant positions and influence for herself and her children. Her role as a patron of the arts contributed to the cultural richness of the Renaissance period.

Cesare Borgia

NAME Cesare Borgia

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Cesare Borgia is famous for his role as a ruthless military leader and politician during the Italian Renaissance, and as the inspiration for Machiavelli's The Prince.

BIRTH  Born on September 13, 1475, in Subiaco, near Rome, Italy.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Cesare was the illegitimate son of Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia (later Pope Alexander VI) and Vannozza dei Cattanei. He was a member of the powerful and infamous Borgia family.

CHILDHOOD Cesare grew up in a privileged environment, receiving a comprehensive education and benefiting from his father's influence and power within the Catholic Church.

EDUCATION He studied at the University of Perugia and the University of Pisa, focusing on law and the humanities. His education was intended to prepare him for a career in the Church.

CAREER RECORD Pope Alexander VI, a man with the moral compass of a drunken compass, was busy using his position to line his family's pockets. The year after he became Pope, his 17-year-old son, Cesare Borgia, was appointed a cardinal but he renounced his ecclesiastical career to become a military leader and politician. He became Duke of Valentinois and Romagna and Captain General of the Papal States, where he pursued ambitious campaigns to consolidate and expand his power.

APPEARANCE Contemporary accounts describe Cesare as handsome, with a strong, athletic build, dark eyes, and a commanding presence.

A copy of an original contemporary portrait painting of Bartolomeo Veneto

FASHION Cesare dressed in the opulent fashion of the Renaissance nobility, often wearing richly decorated armor and clothing that signified his status and power.

CHARACTER Borgia was known for his ambition, cunning, and ruthlessness. He was a charismatic leader who inspired both loyalty and fear. Borgia used his appearance to project power and authority.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Historical records do not provide much insight into his sense of humor, focusing more on his political and military activities.

RELATIONSHIPS Cesare had numerous relationships, both personal and political. He married on May 10, 1499 Charlotte d'Albret, the sister of King John III of Navarre, to secure an alliance with France. He also had many rumored affairs and illegitimate children.

Cesare maintained close relationships with his family, particularly his sister Lucrezia.

MONEY AND FAME Cesare's wealth came from his family connections and his conquests. His fame, or infamy, was widespread, fueled by his ambitious and often ruthless actions.

FOOD AND DRINK Cesare might have been a military mastermind, but he wasn't exactly known for his piety. One particularly scandalous event was the "Banquet of Chestnuts" in 1501. Imagine a fancy dinner party at the Vatican, except instead of ambassadors and dignitaries, there were 50 prostitutes. 

MUSIC AND ARTS He benefited from the patronage of his father and sister, surrounded by Renaissance art and music

LITERATURE His life and actions have inspired numerous works of fiction and historical accounts. 

Cesare is famously associated with Niccolò Machiavelli's The Prince, which uses his actions as examples of political strategy and power dynamics.

NATURE He enjoyed outdoor activities, including hunting and horseback riding

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Cesare l engaged in hunting and other activities typical of Renaissance nobility.

SCIENCE AND MATHS He benefited from advancements in these fields during the Renaissance.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Raised in a religious environment and initially groomed for a church career, Cesare's life was marked more by his pragmatic and often ruthless approach to politics, as famously described by Machiavelli. His actions and ambition contributed to the rise of secularism during the Renaissance.

SCANDAL Cesare's life was filled with scandals, including accusations of murder, betrayal, and incest. His ruthless methods in consolidating power and the infamous reputation of the Borgia family contributed to numerous scandals.

MILITARY RECORD On August 17, 1498, Cesare resigned the cardinalate, in order to pursue a military career.

Cesare was an accomplished military leader, known for his strategic acumen and ruthless tactics. He led successful campaigns to assert control over parts of Italy, notably Romagna, and was appointed Captain General of the Papal States.

The famous artist Michelangelo actually worked for Cesare for a while, designing fortresses and bridges for his newly conquered lands.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Cesare was physically fit and robust, essential for his military campaigns. However, he suffered from syphilis, which eventually contributed to his decline.

HOMES Cesare lived in various residences befitting his status, including the Vatican when his father was pope. He owned several country estates and villas in central Italy.

TRAVEL Cesare traveled extensively across Italy and France, both for military campaigns and political alliances.

DEATH Cesare Borgia died on March 12, 1507, in Viana, Navarre (now Spain), during a military campaign. He was killed in an ambush at the age of 31.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Cesare Borgia has been depicted in numerous books, films, and television series, often focusing on his notorious reputation and Machiavellian tactics. Notable portrayals include Francois Arnaud in the 2011-2013 TV series The Borgias.

ACHIEVEMENTS Cesare Borgia's achievements include significant military victories and political maneuvering that temporarily expanded Borgia influence in Italy. His life and actions have had a lasting impact on political theory, notably influencing Machiavelli's seminal work, The Prince.

Björn Borg

NAME Bjorn Borg

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Bjorn Borg is famous for being one of the greatest tennis players of all time. He is particularly known for his dominance in the late 1970s and early 1980s, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and revolutionizing the sport with his cool demeanor and baseline play.

BIRTH Bjorn Rune Borg was born on June 6, 1956, in Stockholm, Sweden.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Bjorn Borg was born to Rune and Margaretha Borg. His father was an electrician, and his mother was a housewife. Borg's father played table tennis and passed on his interest in sports to his son.

CHILDHOOD Borg's childhood was characterized by a deep passion for sports, particularly tennis, which he developed at an early age. He received his first tennis racket at the age of nine, sparking his lifelong love for the game. By the time he was 13, he was beating the best of Sweden's under-18 players

EDUCATION Bjorn Borg's education was secondary to his burgeoning tennis career. He left formal schooling early to focus on his professional training and competition.

CAREER RECORD Borg's career record is illustrious. He won 11 Grand Slam singles titles—six at the French Open and five at Wimbledon. He also won three year-end championships and 64 individual titles overall. Here's his resume

Professional debut: 1972 at age 15

Dominant years: 1974-1981

World No. 1 for 109 weeks

Known for his graceful playing style, powerful topspin, and mental focus

Retired from professional tennis in 1981 at age 25. 

He made a brief and unsuccessful comeback in 1991.

APPEARANCE Borg was known for his distinctive long blonde hair and athletic build. His physical appearance, coupled with his on-court success, made him a global sports icon.

Borg at the 1979 ABN World Tennis Tournament

FASHION Bjorn Borg was a fashion icon in the 1970s and 1980s. He popularized the headband and sported a cool, composed look on the court, which influenced tennis fashion for years to come. Borg remains a fashion influence, particularly in sportswear.

CHARACTER Reserved and introverted, Borg was known for his ice-cold demeanor on the court, earning him the nickname "Ice Man." He displayed remarkable composure and focus during matches. He possessed a strong work ethic and dedication to his sport.

SENSE OF HUMOUR While not widely known for his sense of humor, those close to Borg describe him as having a dry wit and a warm, approachable personality off the court.

RELATIONSHIPS Borg has been married three times. He first married Romanian tennis player Mariana Simionescu in Bucharest, Romania on July 24, 1980. The ceremony was attended by close friends and family, and it was a high-profile event, given Borg's status as one of the top tennis players in the world at the time.

After their marriage, Borg and Simionescu lived a relatively private life, splitting their time between Monte Carlo and Sweden. Borg's intense tennis career continued to be a central part of their life together.

Björn Borg and Mariana Simionescu's marriage ended in divorce in 1984, after four years. The separation was amicable, and both moved on with their lives. 

Borg and Mariana Simionescu in Snagov, Romania, on 24 July 1980

Borg married Italian singer Loredana Bertè in 1989, and they divorced in 1993. He married his current wife, Patricia Östfeldt, on June 8, 2002. He has a son, Robin, from a relationship with the Swedish model Jannike Björling and a son, Leo, from his current marriage.

MONEY AND FAME Borg achieved significant wealth and fame during his career, earning millions from prize money, endorsements, and his own line of sportswear. 

After retiring from tennis in 1981, Borg invested in various business ventures, including clothing lines, restaurants, and a nightclub. Unfortunately, these ventures were largely unsuccessful, leading to significant financial losses. In the mid-1990s, Borg  found himself facing bankruptcy, a stark contrast to the glory days of Centre Court. He was reportedly saved by selling his luxurious mansion in Stockholm and making other financial adjustments.

Fortunately, Borg managed to turn things around. He launched his own successful clothing line, "Bjorn Borg," in 1985. This brand has become highly popular, particularly in Scandinavia, and has helped him regain financial stability.

In 2006, Borg planned to auction off his trophies for an expected £300,000, but was persuaded not to by his old rival John McEnroe.

Borg remains a well-known figure in the sports world.

FOOD AND DRINK Borg's diet during his playing days was highly disciplined, focusing on high-protein, low-fat foods to maintain peak physical condition.

MUSIC AND ARTS Borg has expressed a love for music, particularly rock and pop, and has attended numerous concerts and events.

LITERATURE While not particularly known for his literary interests, Borg has been the subject of numerous books and documentaries detailing his life and career.

NATURE Borg has a great appreciation for nature and enjoys spending time in the Swedish countryside, often retreating to his summer home by the lake.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Björn Borg, the name conjures up images of flowing blonde locks, a steely gaze, and a devastating topspin forehand. This Swedish tennis titan dominated the courts in the 70s and early 80s, racking up Grand Slam titles like they were going out of fashion.

He was the first man in the Open Era to win 11 Grand Slams, six of those at the French Open and a staggering five consecutive victories at Wimbledon. Imagine that, five years in a row, hoisting the winner's trophy on Centre Court – it's enough to make even the most composed player crack a smile (which Borg rarely did, mind you).

Borg's dominance wasn't just about brute force, though. He possessed an almost zen-like calm on the court, his movements graceful and efficient. His topspin was a thing of beauty, sending the ball looping over the net with devilish precision, leaving opponents scrambling and sighing in frustration.

Borg's clashes with John McEnroe were legendary, a battle of ice and fire on the court. Their 1980 Wimbledon final is etched in tennis history as one of the greatest matches ever played, a grueling five-setter that showcased their contrasting styles and sheer brilliance.

Aside from tennis, Borg enjoys playing golf and engaging in various outdoor activities. He also has a keen interest in hockey and football.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Borg's approach to life and tennis reflects a philosophical mindset focused on discipline, mental strength, and the importance of maintaining a calm, focused demeanor.

SCANDAL Borg's career and personal life have not been without scandal. His financial troubles and tumultuous relationships have occasionally made headlines, but he has generally maintained a positive public image.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Borg was renowned for his exceptional physical fitness during his playing career, which contributed to his success on the court. He continues to maintain a healthy lifestyle post-retirement.

HOMES Borg owns several homes, including properties in Sweden and Monaco. After selling his mansion Astaholm at Ingarö in the Stockholm archipelago in 2019, Björn moved to an apartment in Norrmalm, central Stockholm. He also enjoys spending time at his summer home in the Swedish countryside.

TRAVEL Borg has traveled extensively throughout his career, competing in tournaments around the world. Post-retirement, he continues to travel for business and pleasure.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Borg has appeared in numerous television interviews, documentaries, and films. Notably, the 2017 biographical film Borg vs McEnroe dramatizes his rivalry with John McEnroe.

ACHIEVEMENTS Bjorn Borg's achievements in tennis are legendary. 

He won 11 Grand Slam titles, was ranked world No. 1 by the ATP for a total of 109 weeks, and is considered one of the greatest tennis players in history. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987.

William Booth

NAME William Booth

WHAT FAMOUS FOR William Booth is famous for founding The Salvation Army, a worldwide Christian charitable organization known for its social services and evangelical work.

BIRTH William Booth was born on April 10, 1829, in Sneinton, Nottingham, England.

FAMILY BACKGROUND William was the only son of four surviving children born to Samuel Booth and Mary Moss. Booth's speculative builder father was wealthy by the standards of the time, but during his childhood, as a result of bad investments, the family descended into poverty and Samuel Booth became an alcoholic. William said of him "He set his heart unduly upon worldly gains and was miserable when his fortune melted away."

CHILDHOOD His father's business failures led to economic difficulties, and his father died when Booth was just 14 years old, forcing him to start working at a young age to support his family.

A "careless" lad up to the age of 15, after a bad illness William's spirit became awakened and he joined a Wesleyan chapel.

EDUCATION In 1842, Samuel Booth, who by then was bankrupt, could no longer afford his son's school fees, and 13-year-old William was apprenticed to a pawnbroker, a job he despised. His lack of formal education did not hinder his self-education; he avidly read and studied the Bible and other religious texts.

CAREER RECORD Two years into his apprenticeship William was inspired by a hellfire preacher from USA. He was converted to Methodism. He then read extensively and trained himself in writing and in speech, becoming a Methodist lay preacher initially in the Nottingham slums and a pawn broker. Booth disliked pawnbroking and considered it ungodly.

1852 On 10 April, his 23rd birthday, Booth left pawnbroking and became a full-time preacher. He travelled through England as an itinerant preacher of the Methodist Reform Church and took on several minister's jobs.
1861 Booth resigned from the Methodist ministry as he was unhappy that the annual conference of the denomination kept assigning him to a pastorate, the duties of which he had to neglect to respond to the frequent requests that he do evangelistic campaigns. Instead he became an independent evangelist.
1865 Began work as unattached evangelist in London's East End heading up 'The Christian Mission.'
1878 Adopted name Salvation Army as churches were reluctant to accept his converts. 1880 William set up first Salvation Army branch in USA.

APPEARANCE William Booth was often described as tall and lean with a commanding presence. He had a prominent beard and intense, expressive eyes, which added to his charismatic and authoritative demeanor.

With his very long beard, the elderly William Booth looked like Uncle Albert in (British comedy show) Only Fools and Horses. 

William Booth By Bain News Service

FASHION Booth typically dressed in clerical attire, reflecting his role as a religious leader. In later years, he was often seen in the uniform of The Salvation Army, which he helped design to promote unity and discipline within the organization.

Booth's Salvation Army adopted their famous uniform including the bonnets which provided protective headgear when the going got rough.

CHARACTER Booth was known for his passionate dedication to social justice and his tireless work ethic. He was deeply compassionate, and driven by a strong sense of moral duty. 

Gruff voiced and a strong disciplinarian. A good orator, miraculously with Booth's beard you wouldn't think he'd be able to speak above a whisper.

SENSE OF HUMOUR While Booth was known for his serious commitment to his work, he also possessed a warm and approachable personality. He had a sense of humor that endeared him to those who worked with him, often using wit to connect with people.

It was William Booth who explained the authoritarian framework of his Salvation Army by remarking that if Moses had operated through committees the Israelites never would have got across the Red Sea."

RELATIONSHIPS William first met Catherine Mumford when he came to preach at her church in 1852. They soon fell in love and became engaged on May 15, 1852. During their three year engagement, Catherine constantly wrote letters of encouragement to William as he performed the tiring work of a preacher. They married on June 16, 1855 at Stockwell Green Congregational Church in London. Their wedding was very simple, as they wanted to use their time and money for his ministry. Even on their honeymoon Booth was asked to speak at meetings.

Catherine was a fervent Methodist of tenderest affection and great force of mind. She started preaching around 1860 and initiated a ministry of women. Catherine bore William eight children and they were reared with an iron disciple. His grand daughter Catherine Bramwell-Booth (1884-1987) was a regular on British chat shows including Parkinson in the 1970s & 80s. His son William Bramwell (1856-1929) succeeded his father as general of Salvation Army.

Catherine Booth

MONEY AND FAME Booth lived modestly despite his fame. He lived on a small income partly settled on him by a friend and partly derived from the sale of his publications. 

Booth devoted his resources to the mission of The Salvation Army. His fame grew as the organization expanded globally, becoming well-known for its charitable efforts.

FOOD AND DRINK Booth was not known for any particular culinary preferences, but he led a relatively simple lifestyle, consistent with his focus on service and mission rather than personal indulgence.

In his book In Darkest England and the Way Out, which contains proposals for the physical and spiritual assistance of the great mass of down and outs, Booth wrote, "A starving man cannot hear you preaching. Give him a bowl of soup and he will listen to every word."

Catherine was a temperance advocate and banned her husband’s medicinal port.

MUSIC AND ARTS Music played a significant role in Booth’s ministry. He believed in using music to attract people to his services and incorporated brass bands into The Salvation Army's activities. The organization became known for its distinctive musical outreach.

Booth's Salvation Army pinched the pop songs of their day and added Christian words. The bearded wonder's reaction to this was "Why should the devil have all the best tunes." Their loud processions with their drums and bass and dancing Christians disrupting the Sunday peace and quiet annoyed a lot of people.

LITERATURE Booth was a prolific writer, authoring several books and pamphlets on religious and social topics.

Booth's 1890 In Darkest England and the Way Out contained proposals for the physical and spiritual assistance of the great mass of down and outs. As a result a scheme was launched the following year for the spiritual and social betterment of the submerged tenth. Booth asked for £100,000 - more than that came in.

 
Booth founded The War Cry, the official organ of The Salvation Army.

ANIMALS Booth once ordered his children's pet dog to be shot when it snapped at a servant. He was surprised when they were heartbroken and retrieved the carcass in order to have the pelt made into a rug. The Sally Army leader was bewildered when they received this with hysteria rather than gratitude.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Booth’s life was predominantly centered around his work and mission, leaving little time for hobbies or sports. His relentless dedication to social reform and evangelism consumed most of his energy.  

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY William Booth experienced religious conversion at the age of 15 through the ministry of an American hellfire preacher and devoted his evenings over the following few years to religious work in the local slums. It is here that became acquainted with conditions of life among the very poor. Later Booth became a full-time travelling evangelist for the Methodist church. Trekking up and down the country by train, the recently married Booth and his wife, Catherine, survived on £2 a week.

 
In 1865 Booth and his wife started their mission aimed at the unprivileged classes that lived in unspeakable poverty in the East End of London. Thirteen years later, the annual Christmas appeal for William Booth’s Mission was drawn up. The circular was in dialogue form and to one of the questions “What is the Christian mission?” the answer was “a volunteer army”. Suddenly Booth seized a pen, crossed out “volunteer” and wrote instead “salvation”, thus coining the title “Salvation Army” for his movement.

The Christian Mission becomes The Salvation Army (May 1878).

His book In Darkest England, and the Way Out (1890) contained proposals for the physical and spiritual redemption of the many down-and-outs Booth ministered to. It was not only a best-seller after its 1890 release, but also set the foundation for the Army's modern social welfare schemes.

 
As a preacher Booth was a populist crowd puller. For example he was known to demonstrate the easy road to Hell by sliding down the stair-rail of his pulpit. A champion of the poor he railed against those who “reduce sweating to a fine art, who systematically and deliberately defraud the workman of his pay, who grind the faces of the poor and rob the widow and the orphan.”

In 1912 Booth, who had been in poor health for several years was dying. When asked what had been the secret of his success all the way through, the General replied “I will tell you the secret, God has had all there was of me!” 

The end of his last speech went as follows: “While women weep, as they do now, I’ll fight. While little children go hungry, I’ll fight. While there is a drunkard left, while there is a poor lost girl upon the streets, where there remains one dark soul without the light of God- I’ll fight! I’ll fight to the very end!”

SCANDAL In their early days Booth's "hallelujah band" of converted criminals and others met violent opposition. A skeleton army, supported by brewers which opposed Booth's teetotalism as a threat to their trade, was organised to break up meetings and for years the rank and file and the general himself incurred fines and imprisonment for breaches of peace. In 1882, 642 Salvation Army officers including women were assaulted and 60 Salvation Army buildings damaged. Even leading evangelical, Lord Shaftesbury referred to him as "anti-Christ."

 
When King Edward VII invited Booth to be officially present at his 1902 coronation ceremony, the public changed their views. By 1905 he was the cat's whiskers. The Salvation Army General went on a tour of the country and was received in state by many mayors and corporations.

MILITARY RECORD Booth had no military record. The military structure and terminology used in The Salvation Army were metaphorical, intended to emphasize discipline and organization.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Booth remained active and vigorous well into his later years. Although his relentless work pace often took a toll on his health, but he maintained his duties as long as possible.

Booth discovered in 1909 that he was blind in his right eye and the sight in his left eye was dimmed by cataracts. On August 21, 1909 a surgeon at Guy's Hospital removed his right eye.

HOMES Booth lived in various locations throughout his life, often moving to areas where he could best serve his mission. In his later years, he resided in Hadley Wood, North London.

TRAVEL Booth traveled extensively to promote The Salvation Army, visiting the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European countries to establish and support the organization’s international branches.

In 1904 Booth took part in a 'motorcade' when he was driven around Great Britain, stopping off in cities, towns and villages to preach to the assembled crowds from inside his open-top car.

DEATH William Booth was 83 years old when he died on August 20, 1912 at his home in Hadley Wood, London. He had been in poor health for several years. 

At the three day lying in state at Clapton Congress Hall 150,000 people filed past his casket. 

On August 27, 1912, Booth's funeral service was held at London’s Olympia where 40,000 people attended, including Queen Mary, who sat almost unrecognised far to the rear of the great hall.

The following day Booth's funeral procession set out from International Headquarters. As it moved off 10,000 uniformed Salvationists fell in behind. Forty Salvation Army bands played the ‘Dead March’ from Handel’s Saul as the vast procession set off. He was buried with his wife Catherine Booth in the main London burial ground for 19th century non-conformist ministers and tutors, the non-denominational Abney Park Cemetery in Stoke Newington.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Booth has been featured in various biographies, documentaries, and films about The Salvation Army. His life and work continue to inspire portrayals in media focused on social justice and religious history.

ACHIEVEMENTS (1) Booth founded the Salvation Army. By the time of his death his activities for the down and outs had extended all over the world.

(2) Booth's Salvation Army learnt that Under 16-year-old girls were being exploited as prostitutes. They were trapped and lured into brothels in London by adverts in county newspapers requesting "domestic help needed." Lured inside, drugged, raped and shipped off in caskets to Brussels and Antwerp, they were delivered to businessmen who had put in orders. The Salvation Army exposed this trade in a series of articles in the Pall Mall Gazette in the mid 1880s. As a result a 400,000 petition persuaded Parliament to change the age of consent from 12 to 16.

 
(3) His book In Darkest England And The Way Out not only caused a sensation after its 1890 release, but it set the foundation for modern social welfare schemes.

Source Food For Thought by Ed Pearce

John Wilkes Booth

NAME John Wilkes Booth. He was named after English radical politician John Wilkes, a distant relative.

WHAT FAMOUS FOR John Wilkes Booth is infamous for assassinating President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865.

BIRTH John Wilkes Booth was born on May 10, 1838, in Bel Air, Maryland, United States.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Booth came from a prominent theatrical family. His father, Junius Brutus Booth, was a renowned British actor, and his mother, Mary Ann Holmes, was his father's mistress before they emigrated to the United States and married.

Booth’s brother, Edwin Booth, was the greatest American actor of the nineteenth century. 

CHILDHOOD Booth grew up on the family farm in Maryland, known as Tudor Hall. He was the ninth of ten children and was reportedly a spirited and often rebellious child.

EDUCATION Booth received his early education at private schools in Maryland and later attended the Milton Boarding School for Boys. He was known more for his athleticism and charm than his academic achievements.

CAREER RECORD Booth followed in his father's footsteps, becoming an actor. He made his stage debut at the age of 17 in Baltimore. Over the next decade, he gained fame for his performances in Shakespearean plays, particularly for his portrayal of characters such as Romeo and Brutus.

APPEARANCE He stood 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m) tall, had jet-black hair, Booth was described as strikingly handsome, with a well-groomed mustache, and expressive eyes. His physical appeal contributed to his popularity on stage.

John Wilkes Booth

FASHION Booth was known for his elegant and fashionable attire, often wearing well-tailored suits that highlighted his charismatic stage presence.

CHARACTER Booth was charismatic and passionate but also deeply impulsive and hot-tempered. He held strong political beliefs, particularly in favor of the Southern cause during the Civil War.

SENSE OF HUMOUR He was known to be charming and engaging, with a sharp wit and a talent for mimicry.

RELATIONSHIPS Booth was romantically involved with several women throughout his life, though he never married. His relationships were often intense but fleeting.

Booth had a whirlwind romance with Lucy Lambert Hale, daughter of Senator john P. Hale of New Hampshire, They became secretly engaged in early 1865 and Booth composed a handwritten Valentine card for his fiancée on February 13, 1865, expressing his "adoration". However, she was unaware of Booth's deep antipathy towards Lincoln. A photo of Hale was found on Booth's body.

MONEY AND FAME Booth dabbled in oil during the Pennsylvania boom. In late 1863, he partnered with Cleveland's Academy manager and a gambler to form the Dramatic Oil Company. They leased land and drilled a well, but inexperience and a risky attempt to boost production led to disaster. The company folded, leaving Booth with a failed business venture before his even more infamous act.

By the time of his death, Booth had achieved considerable fame and wealth as an actor, earning substantial sums for his performances.

FOOD AND DRINK As a man of his era and social standing, he likely enjoyed the finer things, including rich meals and spirits.

Booth spent the afternoon drinking before assassinating Lincoln, so was quite drunk when he pulled the trigger during the third act.

MUSIC AND ARTS Booth was deeply immersed in the arts, particularly theater. He was known for his dramatic interpretations of Shakespearean roles and had a passion for performance and dramatic expression.

Booth made his stage debut on August 14, 1855, in the supporting role of the Earl of Richmond in Richard III at Baltimore's Charles Street Theater.  His debut was about as smooth as a greased pig wrestling competition. The Baltimore audience weren't shy about hissing at the young actor when he fumbled his lines in Richard III. 

But Booth persevered. He honed his craft, eventually charming audiences and critics alike. The man became a box office magnet, raking in a cool £20,000 a year – a king's ransom in those days.

Then came a truly bizarre coincidence. Just days before delivering his immortal Gettysburg Address, President Lincoln caught Booth onstage, chewing the scenery as some villain in a play. Apparently, Booth delivered his lines with such venom, someone quipped to Lincoln, "He almost seems to be reciting these lines to you."" Lincoln, ever the picture of stoicism, just chuckled and said, "He does talk very sharp at me, doesn't he?" Little did he know how prophetic that would be.

Boston Museum playbill advertising Booth in Romeo and Juliet, May 3, 1864

LITERATURE Booth was well-read, particularly in Shakespearean literature, which influenced his acting career and perhaps his dramatic worldview.

NATURE Booth enjoyed outdoor activities and was known for his physical vigor, often engaging in horseback riding and hunting.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS His primary hobby was acting, but Booth also loved fencing, a skill that added to his on-stage presence. He also enjoyed horseback riding and other outdoor activities.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Booth was a staunch supporter of the Confederacy and held strong beliefs in states' rights and Southern honor. He viewed Lincoln's policies as tyrannical and felt a deep sense of mission in opposing him.

SCANDAL On April 14, 1865. Booth was picking up his mail at Ford's Theater when he overheard a juicy tidbit – President Lincoln planned to catch a show that very night! Now, Booth knew this particular play, Our American Cousin, like the back of his hand. A truly terrible play, by all accounts, but perfect for Booth's nefarious plans.

What unfolded next is the stuff of history books (and, unfortunately, some truly terrible movies). Booth hatched a harebrained scheme to assassinate not just Lincoln, but the entire cabinet .  He snuck into the presidential box during a particularly hilarious bit – apparently, the audience roared with laughter after a line about a "sockdologizing old man-trap." It was then, under the cover of guffaws, that Booth did the unthinkable.

With a bang that silenced the merriment, Booth pumped a bullet into Lincoln's head.  Then, in a move that would make any self-respecting thespian cringe, he shouted a triumphant line (presumably not from the play) and leaped from the balcony like a deranged acrobat.  He landed with a sickening thud, breaking his leg in the process, but managed to hobble out on his trusty steed and disappear into the night.

Booth ended up holed up in a barn, where a Union soldier named Boston Corbett, in a moment of questionable aim, shot him. Let's just say Booth's curtain call came a bit sooner than he anticipated.

The assassination of Lincoln was a national tragedy. Even newspapers that had previously criticized the president condemned the act. Sure, some folks in the South might have secretly cheered, but most people, North and South alike, were just plain horrified. Booth's actions not only ended a life, but cast a long shadow over a nation still reeling from the Civil War.

MILITARY RECORD Booth did not serve in the Confederate Army, though he was a strong supporter of the Southern cause. He acted as a spy and courier for the Confederacy and briefly considered a plot to kidnap Lincoln to aid the Confederacy..

POLITICAL BELIEFS Booth became politically active in the 1850s, joining the Know-Nothing Party, a group that wanted fewer immigrants to come to the United States.

A strong supporter of the Confederacy and the Southern way of life, Booth deeply resented President Lincoln and his abolitionist policies. His political views ultimately led to the assassination of Lincoln

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Booth was in good physical shape, known for his athletic build and vigorous activity level, which included horseback riding and fencing.

HOMES Booth grew up on a 150-acre (61 ha) farm near Bel Air, Maryland, Booth's father built Tudor Hall on the Harford County property as the family's summer home in 1851, while also maintaining a winter residence on Exeter Street in Baltimore. 

Booth lived in various places throughout his acting career, including Baltimore, New York, and eventually Washington, D.C.

TRAVEL As an actor, Booth traveled extensively across the United States, performing in numerous cities and theaters.

DEATH Booth was killed on April 26, 1865, twelve days after assassinating President Lincoln. He was tracked down to a farm in Virginia and was shot by Union soldiers while hiding in a barn that was set on fire.

The killing of Booth (Frank Leslie's Illustrated News)

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Booth has been portrayed in numerous films, television shows, and books, often focusing on his role in the assassination of Lincoln and his life as an actor and Confederate sympathizer. They include:

Movies: The Birth of a Nation (1915), Prince Of Players (1955), The Lincoln Conspiracy (1977) , The Conspirator (2010), Killing Lincoln (2013).

TV:  Apple TV+ miniseries Manhunt (2024)

Documentary: American Experience: John Wilkes Booth (2011)

Books: John Wilkes Booth : A Sister's Memoir by Asia Booth Clarke (1938), Manhunt: The Twelve-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer by James L. Swanson (2006)

ACHIEVEMENTS Booth achieved considerable acclaim as an actor and was well-regarded in theatrical circles. However, his lasting legacy is overwhelmingly overshadowed by his act of assassinating Abraham Lincoln, an event that profoundly impacted American history.

Daniel Boone

NAME Daniel Boone

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Daniel Boone is famous for his exploration and settlement of Kentucky, his role as a pioneer and frontiersman, and his exploits in the American wilderness during the 18th century.

BIRTH Daniel Boone was born on November 2, 1734, in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Boone was the sixth of eleven children born to Squire Boone, a weaver and blacksmith, and Sarah Morgan, who was of Welsh descent. The Boone family were Quakers who emigrated from England to America.

CHILDHOOD Boone spent his early years in the wilderness of Pennsylvania, where he received his first rifle at the age of 12.  The young Daniel learned hunting, trapping, and survival skills. His family later moved to the Yadkin Valley in North Carolina, which further fueled his love for exploration.

EDUCATION Daniel Boone received little formal education, but he was literate and educated himself through practical experience in the woods and by reading.

CAREER RECORD Boone's career as a frontiersman began in earnest when he led a group of settlers through the Cumberland Gap to Kentucky. He helped establish the settlement of Boonesborough in 1775 and played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States. 

Boone wasn't just a hunter, trapper, guide, and adventurer. He saw military action in the American Revolution, French and Indian War, and was also a tavern owner, surveyor, land speculator, legislator, horse trader, and slave owner.

APPEARANCE Daniel Boone was described as being of medium height with a sturdy, athletic build. He had fair skin, blue eyes, and sandy hair. Below is an 1820 portrait of Boone by Chester Harding, the only known portrait of him made during his lifetime.

FASHION Boone was known for his practical frontier attire, which typically included buckskin clothing, moccasins, and a coonskin cap, though the latter was more of a myth popularized by later stories. He is reported to have said that he found them to be unstylish and instead donned hats made from beaver.

CHARACTER Boone was known for his bravery, resourcefulness, and pioneering spirit. He was also considered honest, kind-hearted, and a natural leader.

SENSE OF HUMOUR There is little specific documentation of Boone's sense of humour, but his ability to tell stories and entertain others suggests he had a lively and engaging personality.

RELATIONSHIPS Daniel Boone married Rebecca Bryan on August 14, 1756, and they had ten children together. Rebecca was nearly as tall as her husband and was very attractive with black hair and dark eyes. Their marriage was strong and supportive, despite the many hardships they faced.

Daniel Boone, the quintessential frontiersman, turns out to have had a family life more befitting a daytime soap opera than a history book. Turns out, his daughter Jemima, well, wasn't exactly his. Historians now suspect she was the product of a little fraternization between Rebecca, and Boone's own brother, Ned. Seems Boone was off on a two-year hunting trip when this little bit of frontier whoops-a-daisy happened. Boone just raised Jemima as his own, adding her to the already bustling Boone brood.

Speaking of bustling, tragedy wasn't kind to the Boone family. Two of his sons met a gruesome end at the hands of Native Americans, a macabre warning to settlers to hightail it out of Kentucky. Boone, ever the pragmatist, reluctantly agreed, leading the family back east. 

Based on The Rescue, a controversial statue that once stood outside the United States Capitol building

MONEY AND FAME Boone struggled financially throughout his life despite his fame as a frontiersman. Land speculation and legal troubles often left him in debt.

Boone became a folk hero during his lifetime, celebrated for his pioneering spirit.

FOOD AND DRINK As a hunter and trapper, Boone's diet consisted largely of game meat, wild fruits, and vegetables. He was also known to enjoy cornmeal-based foods like cornbread.

MUSIC AND ARTS The frontier life and natural surroundings likely influenced his appreciation for storytelling and folk traditions.

LITERATURE Boone's adventures and experiences were the subject of numerous books, articles, and folklore, contributing significantly to American frontier literature.

The Discovery, Settlement and present State of Kentucke and an Essay towards the Topography, and Natural History of that important Country, a 1784 book by Kentucky school teacher John Filson.  An account of Boone's adventures, it made him famous in America and Europe.

NATURE Boone had a deep connection with nature, spending much of his life in the wilderness and advocating for the exploration and settlement of new lands.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Hunting, trapping, and exploring were Boone's primary activities, which were both his hobbies and means of livelihood.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Boone had a practical understanding of navigation, geography, and survival skills but did not engage in formal scientific or mathematical pursuits.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Raised in a Quaker family with pacifist beliefs, Boone held a strong belief in individual freedom and was known for his tolerance and fairness, though he did not adhere strictly to any one religious doctrine.

SCANDAL Boone faced several controversies, including disputes over land claims and financial difficulties. Despite these challenges, he maintained a reputation for integrity.

MILITARY RECORD Boone served in the French and Indian War and later in the American Revolutionary War. 

When two of his daughters were snatched by a war party, Boone, ever the resourceful fellow, managed to scare them off and bring his girls home safe.

Abduction of Boone's Daughter, painting by Karl Ferdinand Wimar, 

Being captured by Native Americans seemed to be a Boone family tradition. Daniel himself was nabbed a few times. In one particularly bizarre incident, he was adopted by a Shawnee chief in 1775. The chief, clearly a man with a whimsical streak, bestowed upon Boone the name "Shel-tow-ee," which translates roughly to "Big Turtle" – a testament, perhaps, to Boone's impressive pack-carrying abilities and leisurely pace. This forced family bonding lasted five whole months before the ever-restless Boone escaped, swiped a horse, and hightailed it 160 miles back to civilization. By that point, his family, convinced he was pushing up daisies, had already hightailed it back to North Carolina. Talk about awkward family reunions.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Boone's rugged lifestyle kept him physically fit and healthy for most of his life. His survival skills and endurance were legendary.

HOMES Boone lived in various locations throughout his life, reflecting his pioneering spirit and the ongoing struggle to secure land ownership on the frontier.

Born in Pennsylvania, he moved with his family to North Carolina as a young man. In Kentucky, he played a key role in founding Boonesborough, a crucial early settlement. Later in life, land disputes and financial difficulties forced him to move again, eventually settling in Missouri.

TRAVEL Boone was a prolific traveler, exploring vast areas of the American frontier. His journeys took him through uncharted territories, and he played a significant role in mapping and settling new lands.

In 1775, he carved a path through the wilderness known as the Wilderness Road. Imagine hacking your way through dense forests with an ax – that's Boone's idea of a weekend getaway. This path, a crucial artery for westward expansion, allowed settlers to flood into Kentucky and beyond. It was basically the Uber of the 18th century frontier.

Boonesborough, one of the first settlements west of the Appalachians, owes a debt of gratitude to Boone. He played a pivotal role in its establishment, solidifying his association with Kentucky. 

Boone's First View of Kentucky, William Tylee Ranney (1849)

DEATH Daniel Boone died on September 26, 1820, at the age of 85, in Defiance, Missouri. He was initially buried next to his wife, Rebecca, but their remains were later moved to the Frankfort Cemetery in Kentucky.

The singer and entertainer Pat Boone was descended (on his father's side) from Daniel Boone

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Daniel Boone's fame as a frontiersman made him a popular subject in American culture.

Numerous books have been written about his life, fictionalizing and romanticizing his adventures.

He has been portrayed in countless films and television shows, solidifying his image as a quintessential American pioneer. Especially noteworthy was Daniel Boone, an TV series, starring Fess Parker as  Boone, that ran on NBC for six seasons, from 1964 until 1970.

Boone's life has been depicted in numerous books, television shows, and movies. He is often portrayed as the quintessential American frontiersman.

ACHIEVEMENTS Daniel Boone's achievements are multifaceted and left a lasting impact on American history.

He is credited with opening Kentucky for settlement, paving the way for westward expansion.

His pioneering spirit and exploration skills played a vital role in shaping the character of the American frontier.

Boone's contributions to the American Revolution in the West helped secure the region for the newly formed nation.

Beyond his specific actions, he became a symbol of American self-reliance, courage, and connection to the wilderness.

Bono

NAME Paul David Hewson, known professionally as Bono. The name Bono refers to a type of hearing aid and in Latin means "good voice".

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Bono is famous as the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of the rock band U2. He is also well-known for his activism in human rights and global poverty issues.

BIRTH Bono was born on May 10, 1960, in Dublin, Ireland.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Bono was born to Brendan Robert "Bob" Hewson, a postal worker, and Iris Rankin Hewson. His father was Roman Catholic, and his mother was Protestant.

CHILDHOOD Bono grew up in the suburb of Finglas, Dublin. He experienced tragedy early on when his mother died of a cerebral aneurysm three days after her father's funeral when he was just 14 years old. The U2 songs "I Will Follow", "Tomorrow" and "Iris (Hold Me Close)" all reference her passing.

EDUCATION Bono attended Mount Temple Comprehensive School, where he met his future U2 bandmates. He did not pursue higher education, choosing instead to focus on his music career.

CAREER RECORD Bono co-founded U2 in 1976. The band achieved global success with albums like The Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby, and How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb. Bono has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors and co-founded the advocacy organization ONE and the (RED) campaign.

APPEARANCE Bono is known for his distinct appearance, often wearing sunglasses due to light sensitivity. He has a prominent jawline and a lean physique.

Bono 2017 By Daniel Hazard - https://u2start.com/photos/view/29157/,

FASHION Bono's fashion style includes a mix of rock star edginess and sophistication. He often wears leather jackets, fitted jeans, and his trademark sunglasses.

CHARACTER Bono is known for his charismatic and passionate personality. He is a driven individual with a strong sense of social justice. The U2 frontman is often described as an intense and complex individual.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Bono has a sharp wit and often uses humor in interviews and public appearances to engage with his audience and make serious points more palatable.

RELATIONSHIPS Bono married Alison Stewart in a Church of Ireland ceremony at All Saints Church in her home area, Raheny on August 31, 1982. They have four children together: Jordan, Eve, Elijah, and John.

Eve is an established actress. Her full name is Memphis Eve Sunny Day Iris Hewson. "I keep asking my parents where the Memphis comes from," she told The Radio Times. "They say, 'you were conceived in Memphis,' or 'It's because you came out with a bunch of hair looking like Elvis.' I don't think they know themselves to be honest."

Eve Hewson in 2016 By The Paparazzi Gamer (TPG) - YouTube: 

Elijah is the lead vocalist and guitarist in the rock band Inhaler.

MONEY AND FAME As of 2024, Bono's estimated net worth is over $700 million. He has amassed wealth through his music career and various business ventures, including investments in technology companies.

FOOD AND DRINK Bono enjoys a variety of foods and is known to appreciate fine dining. He is also a fan of whiskey. 

Bono supports sustainable food practices and has been involved in campaigns to promote food security.

MUSIC AND ARTS Bono's contributions to music are immense, with U2 being one of the world's best-selling music artists. He also collaborates with other artists and is involved in various artistic projects.

U2 began with a notice on a school board pinned on September 25, 1976 by 14-year-old drummer Larry Mullen Jr. He asked for musicians to start a group  and seven boys turned up to their first practice. The final line-up was lead singer Bono (born Paul Hewson), lead guitarist The Edge (born David Evans), bassist Adam Clayton, and drummer Larry Mullen Jr. They've been together ever since. 

The band achieved global success and Bono's expressive vocal style and grandiose gestures, along with his lyrics often containing social, political, and religious themes, have defined U2's music. Their album The Joshua Tree became the fastest-selling in UK history and the first to sell over a million CDs.

As a member of U2, Bono has received 22 Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The band's U2 360° Tour, which took place from 2009 to 2011, broke records as the highest-grossing concert tour of all time.

Bono is also interested in visual arts and poetry.

LITERATURE A voracious reader, Bono is influenced by writers such as James Joyce and Samuel Beckett.

Bono is an avid reader and has often cited literary influences in his songwriting. He has written articles and essays on various topics, including politics and social issues.

Bono's 2022 memoir, Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story is a candid and revealing autobiography. As the title suggests, the book is structured around 40 U2 songs, each serving as a chapter and a touchstone for exploring different periods and themes in Bono's life.

NATURE Bono has expressed a deep appreciation for nature and environmental conservation. He supports various ecological initiatives and has spoken about the importance of preserving the planet.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Bono enjoys cycling and is often seen biking around Dublin. He also has an interest in art and photography.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Bono's advocacy often intersects with science, particularly in areas like health and technology. He supports scientific research in the fight against diseases such as HIV/AIDS.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Bono's lyrics often explore philosophical and theological themes. He identifies as a Christian and frequently discusses spirituality and the moral imperatives of his faith. Essentially, he believes Jesus was either divine, demonic, or delusional – and he’s pretty sure it wasn’t the latter two options.

POLITICS Bono is an outspoken advocate for various political causes, including debt relief for developing countries, human rights, and climate change. He has met with numerous world leaders to discuss these issues.

ACTIVISM  Bono is known for his activism for social justice causes. He co-founded DATA, EDUN, the ONE Campaign, and Product Red, focusing on fighting extreme poverty and HIV/AIDS in Africa. He was named Time Person of the Year in 2005 and has participated in benefit concerts and lobbied politicians and heads of state for relief.

SCANDAL Bono has generally maintained a positive public image. However, he has faced criticism over U2's tax arrangements and the ethics of his investment practices, as well as bypassing African businesses in his activist efforts.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Bono has had several health challenges, including a serious cycling accident in 2014 and a back injury in 2010. He maintains his fitness through cycling and a balanced lifestyle. In late 2016, Bono had a near-death experience and revealed in his 2022 memoir that he underwent open-heart surgery due to a "blister" in his aorta.

HOMES Bono owns several properties, including a home in Killiney, Dublin, and residences in France and the United States.

TRAVEL Bono travels extensively for both his music career and philanthropic work. He is known for his international advocacy trips and world tours with U2.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Bono has appeared in various media, including documentaries, interviews, and guest spots on television shows. He has also been featured in numerous magazines and articles.

ACHIEVEMENTS Bono has received numerous awards, including the Nobel Man of Peace Award, honorary knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II, and multiple Grammy Awards with U2. He is the only person to be nominated for an Oscar, a Grammy, a Golden Globe, and the Nobel Peace Prize. He has been recognized for his contributions to music and global humanitarian efforts.