Andrew Carnegie

NAME Andrew Carnegie

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Andrew Carnegie is famous for being a leading industrialist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a major philanthropist, and one of the wealthiest individuals in history. He is known for his role in expanding the American steel industry and his extensive contributions to education and public libraries.

BIRTH Andrew Carnegie was born on November 25, 1835, in Dunfermline, Scotland.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Andrew Carnegie was born to William Carnegie, a handloom weaver, a profession in decline due to industrialization, and Margaret Morrison Carnegie. His family faced significant economic hardships, which led them to emigrate to the United States in 1848.

CHILDHOOD Carnegie grew up in a poor household, experiencing the struggles of poverty firsthand. At the age of thirteen, he began working in a cotton mill to supplement his family's income. His early experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a determination to improve his circumstances

EDUCATION Carnegie had limited formal education but was an avid reader and self-taught learner. He attended night school while working to educate himself further.

CAREER RECORD Carnegie started working as a bobbin boy in a cotton factory, then became a telegraph messenger boy, and eventually moved up to the position of superintendent of the Pennsylvania Railroad. He later founded the Carnegie Steel Company, which he sold to J.P. Morgan for $480 million in 1901, making him one of the wealthiest men of his time.

APPEARANCE Andrew Carnegie was of average height, with a stout build, blue eyes, and a full beard, which he often kept well-groomed. He had a distinctive Scottish accent that persisted throughout his life.

Carnegie, c. 1878

FASHION Carnegie preferred modest and practical clothing, reflecting his Scottish roots and thrifty nature, despite his immense wealth.

CHARACTER Carnegie was known for his determination, ambition, and strong work ethic. He was also noted for his generosity and commitment to philanthropy.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Carnegie had a keen sense of humor and enjoyed witty conversation, often using humor to diffuse tense situations.

He exchanged gag Christmas gifts with fellow billionaire entrepreneur John D. Rockefeller, such as a cardboard vest from Rockefeller and a fine whiskey from Carnegie, despite Rockefeller's abstinence from alcohol.

RELATIONSHIPS Carnegie did not want to marry during his mother's lifetime, instead choosing to take care of her in her illness towards the end of her life. After she died in 1886, the 51-year-old Carnegie married Louise Whitfield, who was 21 years his junior, on April 22, 1887 at her family's home in New York City in a private ceremony. Louise received a home and an annual income of approximately $20,000 as wedding gifts from her husband, along with stocks and bonds that amounted to an independent annual income.

They had one child, Margaret Carnegie Miller  whom they named after Carnegie's mother. 

Andrew Carnegie with his wife and their daughter  in 1910

He had a close relationship with his family and valued his friendships with notable figures such as Mark Twain.

MONEY AND FAME Carnegie amassed enormous wealth through his steel empire and became one of the most famous industrialists of his time. He was at one point so wealthy, his fortune represented 0.6% of the entire US GDP.

Despite being of the richest westerners ever, Carnegie never carried any cash. He was once put off a London train because he did not have the fare.

His fame was also bolstered by his philanthropic efforts.  By the time of his death, Carnegie had given away roughly 90% of his wealth, equivalent to about $65 billion in today's currency. He gave away $288 million ($4.22 billion today) to American charities alone.

Andrew Carnegie was, by all accounts, a man of extraordinary contradictions. Born into a world of grinding poverty in Scotland, he’d somehow managed to amass a fortune that would make a pirate blush. Starting life as a wee lad toiling in a cotton mill, he’d ended up as the king of American steel. It’s a story so improbable, so utterly American, that it’s almost hard to believe.

But while he was busy becoming the richest man in the world, something rather peculiar happened to Carnegie. He started to feel guilty. I mean, really guilty. The more money he made, the more he seemed to obsess about how to spend it. Unlike most of his robber baron buddies who were quite happy to hoard their loot, Carnegie went on a monumental spending spree, but with a twist. Instead of yachts and diamond-encrusted cufflinks, he bought libraries, universities, and peace palaces.

He was, you see, a man possessed by the notion that the rich had a moral duty to give away their money. This was a radical idea in a time when the only acceptable use of wealth seemed to be spending it on oneself. Carnegie, however, was convinced that he was the world’s greatest philanthropist, even if he did say so himself. He showered cash on just about anything that sounded vaguely noble – from curing diseases to preventing wars. The result was a bewildering array of foundations, trusts, and institutions, all bearing his name.

In the end, Carnegie managed to give away nearly all his fortune. It was a staggering act of generosity, even if it did come with a hefty side order of self-promotion. But there’s no denying that his money left a lasting mark on the world. So, while we might chuckle at his pomposity, we should also tip our hats to the man who turned industrialist into something resembling a modern-day saint.

FOOD AND DRINK Carnegie enjoyed simple, wholesome meals and was not known for indulgence in extravagant foods or drinks.

MUSIC AND ARTS Carnegie was a patron of the arts, particularly music. He funded the construction of Carnegie Hall in New York City, which opened on May 5, 1891, with an inaugural concert conducted by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, setting the stage for the hall's prestigious future.

LITERATURE Carnegie was an avid reader and writer. He authored several books and articles, including his famous essay The Gospel of Wealth, published in 1889 in the North American Review and in Britain in the Pall Mall Gazette. In this essay, he outlined his belief that a successful businessman should devote the first part of his life to accumulating wealth and the second to distributing it, stating, “a man who dies rich, dies disgraced.”

NATURE Carnegie enjoyed spending time in nature, particularly at his Scottish estate, Skibo Castle, where he engaged in outdoor activities.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Carnegie enjoyed golf, which he played regularly, and he was also fond of traveling and exploring different cultures.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Carnegie supported scientific research and education through his philanthropic efforts, funding institutions like the Carnegie Institution for Science.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Carnegie was influenced by Scottish Enlightenment thinkers and believed in the idea of progress and human potential. His philanthropic philosophy was rooted in The Gospel of Wealth, the idea that the rich have a moral duty to use their wealth for the benefit of society.

He was a skeptic of organized religion but valued moral and ethical principles. An evolutionist., he believed that society was progressing beyond the need for wars towards a time of universal peace, spiritual idealism, and prosperity for all.

POLITICS Carnegie was involved in politics, advocating for peace and the abolition of war. He supported various social and political causes, including the establishment of the Hague Court of Arbitration.

SCANDAL Carnegie's career was not without controversy. The Homestead Strike of 1892, a violent labor dispute at one of his steel plants, significantly tarnished his reputation despite his absence from direct involvement.

MILITARY RECORD Carnegie was a strong advocate for peace and used his wealth to promote international harmony and conflict resolution.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Carnegie maintained good health throughout most of his life, attributed to his active lifestyle and engagement in sports like golf.

HOMES Carnegie owned several homes, including his primary residence in New York City and his estate, Skibo Castle, in Scotland. Louise Whitfield Carnegie received a home at 5 West 51st Street in New York City as a wedding gift from her husband.

Andrew Carnegie at Skibo, 1914

TRAVEL Carnegie was an avid traveler, visiting various countries around the world. His travels influenced his philanthropic ideas and cultural appreciation.

DEATH Andrew Carnegie died on August 11, 1919, in Lenox, Massachusetts, at the age of 83. He was buried at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Sleepy Hollow, New York. 

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Andrew Carnegie has been a subject of interest in various forms of media, reflecting his significant impact on industry and philanthropy. Here are some notable appearances:

Books

Andrew Carnegie by David Nasaw (2006): This comprehensive biography delves into Carnegie's life, exploring his rise from poverty to becoming a leading industrialist and philanthropist.

The Tycoons by Charles R. Morris (2006): This book profiles several of America's great industrialists, including Carnegie, and their influence on the country's economic development.

Meet You in Hell by Les Standiford (2005): This book focuses on the relationship between Carnegie and his business partner Henry Clay Frick, particularly during the turbulent times of the Homestead Strike.

Documentaries:

The American Experience: The Richest Man in the World: Andrew Carnegie (1997): A PBS television episode that examines Carnegie's life, his business strategies, and his transformation into a leading philanthropist

The Men Who Built America (2012): A History Channel miniseries that features Andrew Carnegie among other key industrial figures like John D. Rockefeller, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and J.P. Morgan. The series highlights their contributions to America's growth and the complexities of their legacies.

Andrew Carnegie: Rags to Riches, Power to Peace (2007): A PBS documentary that provides an in-depth look at Carnegie's life, focusing on his business achievements and his later philanthropic efforts.

Titans of Industry (2016): This documentary film explores the lives of major industrialists, including Carnegie, emphasizing their innovations and the ethical questions surrounding their business practices.

ACHIEVEMENTS  Andrew Carnegie's achievements include the creation of the Carnegie Steel Company, extensive philanthropic contributions, and the establishment of numerous educational and cultural institutions. He funded the construction of almost 1,700 public libraries in the United States and over 800 abroad, believing this would give people the opportunity to better themselves. His total donations would equate to roughly $65 billion in today's currency, and he gave away $288 million ($4.22 billion today) to American charities alone. His legacy continues to impact society positively through the institutions and initiatives he established.

Thomas Carlyle

NAME Thomas Carlyle

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Thomas Carlyle is renowned for his work as a Scottish historian, essayist, and philosopher, particularly known for his works Sartor Resartus and The French Revolution: A History.

BIRTH Thomas Carlyle was born on December 4, 1795, in Ecclefechan, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Carlyle was born to James Carlyle, a stonemason and later a farmer, and Margaret Aitken. His family was of humble, working-class origins, with strong Calvinist beliefs.

CHILDHOOD Carlyle's childhood was marked by a strict, religious upbringing. He displayed an early aptitude for learning, especially in languages and mathematics.

He was the eldest of nine children and developed a strong sense of duty and responsibility from a young age. 

EDUCATION Carlyle attended Annan Academy before enrolling at the University of Edinburgh, at the age of 14, where he studied mathematics with John Leslie, science with John Playfair and moral philosophy with Thomas Brown. He excelled in mathematics, even inventing the Carlyle circle. Initially, Carlyle prepared to become a minister in the Burgher Church while working as a schoolmaster

CAREER RECORD After initially considering the ministry, Carlyle began his career as a mathematics teacher and journalism. He gained recognition as a translator of German literature and later established himself as a historian and essayist.

Carlyle promoted the notion of the Victorian or Protestant work ethic. He wrote: "Man was created to work, not to speculate, or feel or dream… Every idle moment is treason."

APPEARANCE Tall and lean, his appearance was often described as austere somewhat intimidating and disheveled appearance. He had a prominent forehead, bushy eyebrows, and a piercing gaze.

Thomas Carlyle portrait c. 1865

Queen Victoria described him speaking in a "drawling melancholy voice, with a broad Scotch accent,"

FASHION Carlyle preferred practical and straightforward clothing, such as simple suits and heavy overcoats, reflecting his no-nonsense personality. He was often seen in loose-fitting, informal attire, reflecting his disdain for societal norms.

CHARACTER Carlyle was a complex character known for his intense intellect, deep moral convictions, and often abrasive personality. He was a critical observer of society and a vocal critic of materialism.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Carlyle had a dry and often caustic sense of humor. His wit was sharp, and he frequently used it to underscore his criticisms of contemporary society.

RELATIONSHIPS Carlyle married Jane Welsh, an attractive, and somewhat temperamental daughter of a well-to-do doctor on October 17, 1826. A brilliant and witty woman, Jane's intellectual partnership was crucial to his career. Their marriage, while intellectually stimulating, was also famously tumultuous and marked by frequent arguments and misunderstandings.

Jane Baillie Carlyle (née Welsh), by Samuel Laurence

MONEY AND FAME Despite his literary success, Carlyle struggled with financial difficulties for much of his life. However, his reputation as a leading intellectual eventually brought him wealth and fame. 

FOOD AND DRINK Carlyle had simple tastes in food and drink, often preferring traditional Scottish fare. He was known to be frugal and avoided excess and was a moderate drinker..

MUSIC AND ARTS While not a musician himself, Carlyle appreciated classical music and had a deep respect for the arts, often reflecting on their importance in his writings. He was particularly fond of German music and literature.

LITERATURE Carlyle was a voracious reader and a prolific writer. His works contributed significantly to Victorian literature, and he was a contemporary of other literary figures such as Charles Dickens and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Thomas Carlyle stumbled into the limelight by introducing German literature to English readers who had never heard of it. He did this through his translations, his biography Life of Friedrich Schiller in 1825, and a series of review essays for various journals. His first significant work, however, was a novel called Sartor Resartus, published in 1833-34. After moving to London, Carlyle hit the big time with The French Revolution in 1837, which was so well received that his earlier essays were quickly bundled together and republished as Miscellanies.

Following this, Carlyle was on a roll. He churned out a series of influential works, each met with great acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. These included On Heroes in 1841, Past and Present in 1843, Cromwell's Letters in 1845, Latter-Day Pamphlets in 1850, and the expansive History of Frederick the Great from 1858 to 1865. Carlyle's reputation soared, cementing his place as a major intellectual force in Europe and North America.

A particularly harrowing incident occurred when his friend John Stuart Mill's maid mistakenly burned the only manuscript of Carlyle's History of the French Revolution, a work that had taken five months to complete.

NATURE Carlyle had a profound appreciation for nature, often drawing inspiration from the natural world for his philosophical reflections.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Carlyle enjoyed walking and spending time outdoors. He also took pleasure in reading and engaging in intellectual debates.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Carlyle had a solid foundation in mathematics from his early education and maintained an interest in the scientific advancements of his time.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Carlyle was raised in a deeply religious household, who adhered to the strict Calvinist principles of the Scottish Presbyterian Church.

Carlyle's work is steeped in philosophical and theological inquiry. He was influenced by German idealism and Scottish Calvinism, and he often explored themes of heroism, destiny, and the divine in human affairs.

POLITICS Carlyle was a social critic with strong views on the industrial revolution, democracy, and leadership. He advocated for strong, heroic leadership and was critical of what he saw as the weaknesses of democratic systems.

SCANDAL Carlyle's life was relatively free of scandal, though his marriage with Jane Welsh Carlyle was publicly known to be strained, leading to much speculation and gossip.

MILITARY RECORD Carlyle e wrote extensively on military leaders and historical conflicts, particularly in his work The French Revolution.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Carlyle suffered from various health issues throughout his life, including chronic dyspepsia and insomnia, which often affected his mood and productivity.

HOMES Carlyle lived in several places throughout his life, including his famous residence at 5 Cheyne Row, Chelsea, London, which which became a literary and intellectual hub. It is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

5 Cheyne Row, By Spudgun67 Wikipedia

TRAVEL Carlyle traveled within the British Isles and to the European continent. His travels to Germany were particularly influential, as they exposed him to German literature and philosophy.

DEATH Thomas Carlyle died on February 5, 1881, at the age of 85 in London. He was buried in Ecclefechan, his birthplace.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Thomas Carlyle has appeared in various forms of media over the years, reflecting his enduring influence on literature, history, and philosophy.

Numerous biographies have been written about Carlyle, detailing his life, work, and influence. They  include:

Thomas Carlyle: A Biography by James Anthony Froude, which provides an in-depth look at Carlyle's life and work.

Carlyle by John Nichol, part of the English Men of Letters series.

Carlyle has been depicted in various television dramas and films that focus on the Victorian era and its literary figures. For instance, his character has appeared in dramatizations of the lives of other famous figures of his time, such as Charles Dickens and Ralph Waldo Emerson. These portrayals often highlight his intellectual presence and his sometimes abrasive personality.

Carlyle is frequently referenced in literary works by other authors. His ideas and style influenced a wide range of writers, including Ralph Waldo Emerson, who corresponded with Carlyle and acknowledged his influence on American Transcendentalism. Additionally, Carlyle's concepts of heroism and leadership have permeated many literary and philosophical discussions.

ACHIEVEMENTS Carlyle's achievements include his profound influence on Victorian literature and thought, his extensive body of written work, and his role as a public intellectual. His historical and philosophical analyses continue to be studied and respected.

William Carey

NAME William Carey

WHAT FAMOUS FOR William Carey is renowned as the "father of modern missions." He was also an English Christian missionary, a Particular Baptist minister, a translator, social reformer, and cultural anthropologist.

BIRTH William Carey was born on August 17, 1761, in Paulerspury, Northamptonshire, England.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Carey was born into a relatively modest family. His father, Edmund Carey, was a weaver who was appointed the parish clerk and village schoolmaster when William was six. His mother was Elizabeth Carey.

CHILDHOOD William Carey had a curious and scholarly disposition from a young age. He displayed a keen interest in nature and learning, often collecting specimens and studying books far beyond his years.

EDUCATION Carey's formal education was limited to the village school where his father taught. However, he was largely self-educated, teaching himself Latin, Hebrew, and Greek, while working as a cobbler, and developing a strong interest in theology and natural sciences.

Carey founded Serampore College and University, the first degree-awarding university in India.

CAREER RECORD Carey began his career as a cobbler, where he met fellow Christian enthusiasts. He became the full-time pastor of Harvey Lane Baptist Church in Leicester in 1789. 

Carey's interest in missions led to the founding of the Baptist Missionary Society in 1792. He spent 41 years in India, translating the Bible into several Indian languages, founding mission schools, and campaigning against social injustices. 

He was also a professor of Oriental languages at Fort William College in Calcutta from 1801 to 1830.

He also founded the Serampore College and was a key figure in the establishment of the modern missionary movement.

APPEARANCE William Carey was described as a man of medium height with a serious demeanor. He often wore simple clothing appropriate for his missionary work and lifestyle.

William Carey by unknown author

FASHION Carey's fashion was practical and modest, reflecting his missionary ethos and the humble means of his early life.

CHARACTER Carey was known for his perseverance, humility, and deep faith. He possessed a tireless work ethic and an unwavering commitment to his missionary calling.

SENSE OF HUMOUR While primarily serious and focused on his mission, Carey had a gentle sense of humor that surfaced in his personal writings and correspondence.

RELATIONSHIPS In 1779, Carey entered into an apprenticeship with local shoemaker Thomas Old. Four years later, he married Old’s sister-in-law, Dorothy Plackett, at St. John the Baptist Church, Piddington. Dorothy was a woman of simple faith but limited education. 

In April 1793, Carey departed for India with his eldest son, Felix, as well as Thomas and his family. Dorothy, pregnant with their fourth child and having never ventured far from home, had initially resisted the move. However, after much persuasion and the assurance of her sister Kitty's support during childbirth, she eventually agreed to join them.

The couple welcomed seven children, tragically losing two daughters in infancy and a son, Peter, to dysentery at the age of five. The cumulative stress of these losses, compounded by the death of their son, precipitated a severe mental breakdown from which Dorothy never recovered. 

Despite urging from friends and colleagues to institutionalize her, Carey, fearing the harsh conditions of asylums, cared for her at home, though their children were exposed to her unpredictable behavior.

Dorothy passed away in 1807. Her deteriorating mental health had long since prevented her from contributing to the mission, and her condition had become an increasing burden. However, Carey’s unwavering love and compassion were evident as he cared for his wife, a reflection of the sacrificial spirit that defined his life.

Carey found solace and companionship in his second marriage to Charlotte Rhumohr, a Danish member of his congregation. Charlotte was a woman of intellect and shared Christian conviction. 

Their marriage lasted thirteen years until her death in 1821. A year later, Carey suffered the loss of his eldest son, Felix. 

In 1823, Carey married for a third time, to Grace Hughes, a widow.

MONEY AND FAME Carey lived modestly, directing financial gains towards his mission work. He gained fame and recognition for his contributions to missions, translation, and social reform, but remained humble throughout his life.

FOOD AND DRINK Carey adopted a simple diet, often reflective of the local cuisine during his time in India. He was not known to have any particular indulgences in food and drink.

MUSIC AND ARTS Carey appreciated music and arts within the context of his religious beliefs, often integrating hymns and Christian art into his work.

LITERATURE A prolific writer, Carey produced numerous religious and educational texts. He was deeply influenced by the Bible and religious literature, which guided his missionary and translation work. His 1792 essay, An Enquiry into the Obligations of Christians to use Means for the Conversion of the Heathens, helped spark the modern missionary movement.

Carey was instrumental in translating the Bible into several Indian languages, including Bengali, Sanskrit, and Marathi. 

NATURE Carey had a lifelong fascination with nature, often incorporating his love for natural sciences into his missionary activities. He collected and documented various plant species during his time in India.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Carey's primary hobbies included studying languages, translating texts, and documenting flora and fauna. He was not known to participate in sports.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Carey had a keen interest in science, particularly botany. He was also knowledgeable in astronomy and geography, which complemented his missionary work.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY  Carey's philosophy and theology were rooted in his Christian faith. He believed in the universal mission of spreading Christianity and was influenced by Baptist and evangelical teachings. His famous epigram, "Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God," reflects his theological outlook.

POLITICS Carey was not actively involved in politics, but his work had significant social and cultural implications, particularly in advocating for social reforms in India, such as the abolition of sati (widow burning).

SCANDAL Carey faced opposition and criticism, particularly from those who opposed his missionary work and from within the colonial establishment. However, there were no personal scandals associated with him.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Carey faced numerous health challenges throughout his life, including malaria and dysentery during his time in India. Despite these issues, he continued his work with determination.

HOMES Carey lived in various places throughout his life, starting in England and then moving to India. In India, he spent much of his time in Serampore, where he established the Serampore College and Mission.

Carey lived at the Serampore College by Biswarup Ganguly Wikipedia

TRAVEL Carey traveled from England to India in 1793, a journey that marked the beginning of his long-term missionary work. He traveled extensively within India to spread his mission.

DEATH William Carey died on June 9, 1834, in Serampore, India. He was buried in the mission cemetery in Serampore.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Carey's life and work have been the subject of numerous biographies, scholarly articles, and documentaries, highlighting his contributions to missions and translations.

ACHIEVEMENTS Carey's achievements include translating the Bible into multiple Indian languages, founding the Serampore College, and playing a pivotal role in the modern missionary movement. 

His work in social reform, particularly in education and the abolition of inhumane practices, left a lasting impact on Indian society. 

By the end of the nineteenth century, there were over half a million native Indian Protestants, a testament to Carey's trailblazing efforts.

Mariah Carey

NAME Mariah Carey 

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Mariah Carey is famous for her exceptional vocal range, songwriting, and numerous hit songs. She is known as the "Songbird Supreme" and the "Queen of Christmas" for her iconic holiday song "All I Want for Christmas Is You."

BIRTH Mariah Carey was born on March 27, 1969, in Huntington, New York, USA.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Mariah Carey was born to Alfred Roy Carey, an aeronautical engineer of African-American and Venezuelan descent, and Patricia Carey, an opera singer and vocal coach of Irish descent. She has two older siblings, Alison and Morgan.

Carey's mother and sister both died on August 26, 2024 day in a “tragic turn of events”. Carey’s mother Patricia passed away aged 87, while her sister Alison was 63.

CHILDHOOD Carey's childhood was marked by racial tensions and familial struggles. Her parents divorced when she was three years old, and she moved frequently, living in various parts of New York. Despite the challenges, she found solace in music from a young age.

EDUCATION Mariah Carey attended Harborfields High School in Greenlawn, New York, where she excelled in music and began writing songs. She was nicknamed "Mirage" in high school because she often skipped classes to work on her music career, participating in studio work and backup singing gigs.

Carey did not pursue college, opting instead to focus on her music career.

CAREER RECORD Mariah Carey's career began with her self-titled debut album in 1990, which produced four number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100. She continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including Emotions, Music Box, Daydream, and The Emancipation of Mimi. Carey has sold over 200 million records worldwide and has received numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards.

APPEARANCE Mariah Carey is known for her glamorous appearance, often seen in figure-hugging dresses and high heels. She has a signature style that includes her voluminous curly or straight hair and radiant smile. Carey is particularly noted for preferring to be photographed from her right side.

Carey in 2008 by David Shankbone. Wikipedia 

FASHION Carey is a fashion icon, known for her glamorous and luxurious style. She often wears designer gowns, sparkling jewelry, and high-end accessories, both on and off the stage.

Her wedding dress for her marriage to Tommy Mottola was designed by Vera Wang and was modeled after Princess Diana's royal wedding gown.

CHARACTER Mariah Carey is known for her larger-than-life personality, confidence, and resilience. She has a reputation for being a diva, but she is also admired for her work ethic and dedication to her craft.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Mariah Carey has a witty and playful sense of humor. She often showcases her comedic side in interviews and social media, endearing her to fans.

RELATIONSHIPS Mariah Carey has been married twice: She began dating music executive Tommy Mottola while recording Mariah Carey, and they were married at the Episcopal Saint Thomas Church in New York City on June 5, 1993, They separated in December 1996 and divorced 15 months later.

She began dating actor and comedian Nick Cannon while filming the music video for her song "Bye Bye." They were married on April 30, 2008, in the Bahamas. They separated six years later and divorced in 2016. 

Carey has two children, twins Moroccan and Monroe, with Cannon. She has also had high-profile relationships with figures like singer Luis Miguel and Australian billionaire James Packer.

MONEY AND FAME Mariah Carey is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with an estimated net worth of over $300 million. Her fame extends globally, and she remains a significant figure in pop culture. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" earns her about $500,000 in royalties each Christmas.

FOOD AND DRINK Mariah Carey has a strict eating regime and when dieting she primarily eats Norwegian salmon and capers. Her diet is very disciplined, which helps her maintain her health and appearance.

MUSIC AND ARTS Carey is a prolific songwriter and producer, contributing to the vast majority of her songs. Her music spans pop, R&B, soul, and hip-hop, and she has influenced many contemporary artists. She holds the Guinness World Record for the highest note hit by a human, achieving the G7# note during a live performance.

Mariah Carey burst onto the music scene in 1990 with her self-titled debut album. Her early career was a blur of number ones so relentless it’s a wonder she didn’t induce mass hysteria. Ballads that could induce tears in a hardened criminal alternated with dance tracks so infectious they’d make a corpse twitch.  Songs like "Vision of Love, and "One Sweet Day" became the acoustic wallpaper of the late twentieth century. You couldn’t escape them if you tried.

And then, she decided to reinvent herself as a hip-hop diva with her 1997 Butterfly album. Carey’s star began to wane,  but Carey is nothing if not resilient. She roared back to life with The Emancipation of Mimi (2005), one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century. One of the tracks, "We Belong Together," was the best-selling song of the 2000s in the US.

LITERATURE Mariah Carey is also an author. She released her memoir, The Meaning of Mariah Carey, in 2020, which received critical acclaim for its candid and insightful look into her life and career. It debuted at the top of The New York Times list of nonfiction bestsellers dated October 18, 2020.

NATURE While Mariah Carey is mostly associated with urban glamour, she enjoys spending time in nature and often retreats to her properties that offer serene natural settings. She has been involved in several environmental initiatives.

PETS Carey is an animal lover and has had several pets over the years, including several Jack Russell terriers that often make appearances on her social media. She often takes her pets on trips around the world and enjoys their companionship.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS In her leisure time, Mariah Carey enjoys swimming, skiing, and spending time with her children. She also loves shopping and traveling.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Carey has spoken about her belief in God and spirituality, often referencing her faith as a source of strength and inspiration throughout her life and career.

POLITICS Mariah Carey has been vocal about social issues and has supported various charitable causes. She has shown support for the LGBTQ+ community and participated in benefit concerts and fundraising efforts.

SCANDAL Carey's career has seen its share of scandals, including publicized feuds with other celebrities and scrutiny over her personal life. Notable scandals include her controversial performance for the son of Muammar al-Gaddafi in 2008, for which she later apologized. Despite these challenges, she has consistently rebounded with successful projects.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Carey has faced health challenges, including struggles with bipolar disorder, which she publicly revealed in 2018. She focuses on maintaining her health through a balanced lifestyle and professional support.

HOMES Mariah Carey owns several luxurious properties, including homes in Beverly Hills, New York City, and the Bahamas. Her residences are known for their opulence and comfort.

TRAVEL Carey is an avid traveler, frequently touring for her music and vacationing in exotic locations. She often shares her travel experiences with fans through social media.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Mariah Carey has made numerous appearances in films, television shows, and talk shows. Notable appearances include her roles in Precious and Glitter, as well as her reality show Mariah's World. She is also a frequent guest on talk shows and award ceremonies.

ACHIEVEMENTS Mariah Carey's achievements are numerous and include five Grammy Awards, 19 World Music Awards, 10 American Music Awards, and 15 Billboard Music Awards. She holds the record for the most number-one singles by a solo artist in the United States. Her holiday classic "All I Want for Christmas Is You" has become a cultural staple, and she was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.

Sources IMDB, Artistfacts

Truman Capote

NAME Truman Capote

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Truman Capote is famous for his works of literature, including the novella Breakfast at Tiffany's and the true crime novel In Cold Blood.

BIRTH Truman Capote was born on September 30, 1924, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

FAMILY BACKGROUND  Capote was born Truman Streckfus Persons to Archulus Persons and Lillie Mae Faulk. His parents divorced when he was young, and he was largely raised by relatives in Monroeville, Alabama.

CHILDHOOD Truman had a tumultuous childhood, often feeling neglected by his mother, who eventually remarried. Solitary and imaginative, often feeling isolated and different, Truman developed a strong bond with his cousin and caretaker, "Sook".

He formed a close friendship with Harper Lee, his neighbor, who would later write To Kill a Mockingbird.

EDUCATION Truman developed a passion for reading and writing early on, which was nurtured by his extended family in Alabama. 

Truman attended various schools, including the Trinity School and St. Joseph Military Academy. He did not attend college, instead choosing to focus on his writing career from a young age.

CAREER RECORD Capote began his career at The New Yorker. He gained early success with his first novel, Other Voices, Other Rooms (1948). His notable works include Breakfast at Tiffany's (1958) and In Cold Blood (1966), the latter of which is considered one of the first non-fiction novels. He was also known for his short stories, plays, and screenplays.

APPEARANCE  Truman Capote was 5 feet 3 inches tall and known for his distinctive, high-pitched voice and unique vocal mannerisms. He had a round face and often sported a blond, boyish haircut. He was known for his distinctive voice, sharp wit, and flamboyant style.

Truman Capote, 1980

FASHION Capote had a sophisticated and flamboyant sense of fashion, often wearing bespoke suits and accessories that matched his eccentric personality. He was often seen in tailored suits and was a fixture in New York's social scene.

CHARACTER Capote was charismatic, witty, and often the center of attention at social gatherings. However, he also had a darker side, marked by bouts of depression and substance abuse. He possessed a deep understanding of human nature and could be manipulative and demanding. Capote's complex personality made him both endearing and controversial.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Capote had a sharp wit and a biting sense of humor. He was known for his clever and often cutting remarks, which endeared him to some and alienated others.

RELATIONSHIPS Capote had several high-profile relationships throughout his life, including a long-term relationship with fellow writer Jack Dunphy. His social circle included many famous personalities, and he was a regular fixture at New York's elite social events.

Truman Capote threw a party that’s still the stuff of legend. The Black and White Ball, a masquerade extravaganza held at the Plaza Hotel on November 28, 1966, was the ultimate who’s who of the jet set. It was like throwing a diamond into a room full of magpies and seeing what happened. Capote spared no expense, dropping a cool sixteen grand on a night that would define a decade. The event was a cultural reset, launching a thousand copycat costume balls and proving once and for all that Capote was the king of the social scene.

MONEY AND FAME Capote achieved considerable financial success and fame through his writing. In Cold Blood and Breakfast at Tiffany's were particularly lucrative, allowing him to live a lavish lifestyle. However, his spending habits and personal issues often strained his finances.

FOOD AND DRINK Capote enjoyed fine dining and was often seen at exclusive restaurants. He had a taste for gourmet food and good wine, which he indulged in frequently.

MUSIC AND ARTS Capote appreciated the arts and was friends with many artists, musicians, and performers. He had a particular fondness for classical music and often attended concerts and art exhibitions.

LITERATURE Capote was an avid reader and a prolific writer. His literary influences included Marcel Proust, Edgar Allan Poe, and Henry James. He made significant contributions to both fiction and non-fiction, with his innovative writing style leaving a lasting impact on American literature.

Truman Capote was one of those kids who knew exactly what he wanted to be when he grew up: a writer. He was planning to become a writer by the time he was eight years old. He spent his childhood scribbling away like a mad thing, turning out stories as fast as a kid churns out dirtballs.

Eventually, he graduated from scribbling to something resembling actual prose. His first big break came with a 1945 short story called Miriam, which attracted the attention of Random House publisher Bennett Cerf. Suddenly, he was rubbing shoulders with the bigwigs of publishing. His first novel, Other Voices, Other Rooms, was the literary equivalent of a kid getting their driver’s license.

But it was In Cold Blood that really put him on the map. This wasn’t your average novel; it was more like a supercharged documentary. Six years of his life went into that book, and he even roped in his childhood buddy Harper Lee to help him out. 

NATURE Capote did not often write about nature, and there is little evidence to suggest he spent much time in natural settings. His works were more focused on human nature and the complexities of social interactions.

PETS Capote was known to be an animal lover and had a bulldog named Charlie, who was his faithful companion for many years.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Capote enjoyed socializing and was a regular at high-profile parties and events. He was not particularly known for participating in sports, but he did enjoy traveling and experiencing new places and cultures.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Capote's work often explored philosophical themes related to human nature, morality, and the search for meaning. However, he did not align himself with any particular philosophical or theological school of thought.

POLITICS Capote was not heavily involved in politics, although he was known to have liberal views and supported civil rights movements. He preferred to focus on his writing and social life rather than political activism.

SCANDAL Capote's life was marked by several scandals, most notably the fallout from the publication of Answered Prayers, an unfinished novel that revealed intimate details about his friends and acquaintances in high society. This betrayal led to his social ostracization.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Capote struggled with health issues, including alcoholism and drug addiction. These problems worsened over time, contributing to his declining health in his later years.

HOMES Capote lived in various places throughout his life, including New York City, Alabama, and Switzerland. He spent his final years in Los Angeles, California.

TRAVEL Capote was well-traveled and often journeyed to Europe, where he spent time in Italy and Switzerland. He also traveled extensively across the United States for research and leisure.

DEATH Truman Capote died on August 25, 1984, at the home of his friend Joanne Carson in Bel Air, Los Angeles aged 59. The cause of death was liver disease complicated by phlebitis and multiple drug intoxication.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Capote's life and works have been the subject of several films, including Capote (2005) starring Philip Seymour Hoffman (for which he won an Oscar) and Infamous (2006) starring Toby Jones. Both films depict his journey while writing In Cold Blood.

Capote had a cameo role in Woody Allen's 1977 movie Annie Hall. Allen’s character says of a man he sees: "Oh. There’s the winner of the Truman Capote lookalike Contest."

ACHIEVEMENTS Capote's major achievements include his innovative contributions to the non-fiction novel genre, particularly with In Cold Blood. He received several literary awards and was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. His works remain influential and are studied in literary circles worldwide.

Al Capone

NAME Alphonse Gabriel "Al" Capone

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Al Capone is famous for being one of the most notorious American gangsters, leading the Chicago Outfit during the Prohibition era.

BIRTH Al Capone was born on January 17, 1899, in Brooklyn, New York, USA.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Capone was born to Italian immigrant parents, Gabriele Capone and Teresa Raiola, who moved to the United States from Naples, Italy. His father was a barber, and his mother was a seamstress.

James Capone, Al Capone's older brother, was a federal prohibition agent.

CHILDHOOD Capone grew up in a tough neighborhood in Brooklyn. He displayed a penchant for street crime early on and joined his first gang, the South Brooklyn Rippers, in his mid-teens.

EDUCATION Capone attended school until the sixth grade, after which he was expelled for hitting a teacher. He never returned to formal education.

CAREER RECORD Capone started his criminal career in small street gangs in Brooklyn. He moved to Chicago in the 1920s, where he became a member of the Chicago Outfit, eventually rising to the position of boss. He was involved in numerous illegal activities, including bootlegging, gambling, and prostitution. His reign included the infamous St. Valentine's Day Massacre in 1929.

APPEARANCE Capone was a stocky man with a round face and often seen with a cigar. He had several scars on his face, earning him the nickname "Scarface."

Al Capone in 1930

FASHION Capone was known for his sharp dressing, often seen in tailored suits, fedoras, and expensive accessories.

CHARACTER Capone was ruthless, intelligent, and charismatic, but also violent and manipulative. He had a reputation for being both generous to his community and merciless to his enemies.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Capone was known for his jovial nature among friends and allies but had a dark sense of humor, often making light of his violent deeds.

RELATIONSHIPS Al Capone married Mary ("Mae") Coughlin at St. Mary Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church, Brooklyn, New York, on December 30, 1918. 

They had one son, Albert Francis Capone, also known as "Sonny," who was deaf. Capone learned sign language to communicate with him.

MONEY AND FAME Capone amassed a vast fortune through his criminal enterprises, earning an estimated $105 million in 1927 alone, equivalent to $1.4 billion today. 

He was infamous nationwide and became a symbol of the lawlessness of the Prohibition era.

FOOD AND DRINK Capone enjoyed fine dining and was known to frequent high-end restaurants. He was also a heavy drinker, despite Prohibition laws.

Capone's favorite food was Nathan’s Coney Island hot dogs.

He sponsored a soup kitchen during the Great Depression.

Usually, Al Capone was all about outsourcing the dirty work. He preferred to pull the strings from the shadows, letting others do the shooting. But when he suspected three of his own crew were plotting against him, he decided to handle things personally.

Under the guise of a friendly dinner at Chicago's Hawthorne Inn on May 7, 1929, Capone lured them in. After plenty of booze to loosen tongues and lower inhibitions, the façade crumbled. What followed was a scene straight out of a horror movie. Capone transformed from mob boss to medieval barbarian, beating his enemies with a baseball bat before ordering their executions. It was a performance worthy of Hollywood, and indeed, it was later dramatized in the classic film, The Untouchables.

MUSIC AND ARTS Capone was a fan of jazz music and often patronized jazz clubs. He sometimes hosted jazz musicians at his private gatherings.

While in Alcatraz, he learned to play the banjo and formed a prison band, The Rock Islanders.

LITERATURE Capone was not known for his literary interests, though his life inspired numerous books and articles.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Capone enjoyed card games and gambling and was known to attend horse races and boxing matches.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Capone was raised Catholic, but his lifestyle and actions were in stark contrast to religious teachings. He was known to make charitable donations to the church.

POLITICS Capone had significant influence over local politics in Chicago through bribery and corruption, ensuring that his operations continued with minimal interference.

CRIMINAL RECORD Al Capone didn’t start out life as Public Enemy Number One. He was just a kid from Brooklyn, looking for a bit of excitement. So, he joined a gang. Then another. And another. Turns out, he had a knack for this sort of thing. He was like a kid who discovers he’s got a magic wand and can make things disappear – except his magic wand was a Tommy gun.

He moved to Chicago, a city that seemed to be auditioning for a Wild West showdown, and quickly worked his way up the criminal ladder. He was smart, ruthless, and had a way with numbers – not the kind you learn in school, but the kind that involved adding up illegal profits. His business card said "used furniture dealer," which is like saying a shark is a vegetarian.

Then came the Valentine’s Day Massacre. This wasn’t just a killing; it was a piece of performance art. Dressed as cops, his guys waltzed into a garage and started blasting away. A classic case of overkill, even by mob standards. It was like a director saying, "Let’s go big or go home," except in this case, home was a jail cell.

They couldn’t pin the Valentine’s Day Massacre on him, but they did get him on taxes. Imagine that – a guy who made millions from bootlegging and gambling going to prison for not paying his taxes. It’s like arresting a lion for jaywalking.

Prison life wasn’t kind to Capone. He went from being the big cheese to being somebody’s chew toy. Even the guards were scared of him. So, they shipped him off to Alcatraz, a place so secure they kept the sharks on a leash.

In the end, syphilis got to him before the cops did. He went from a feared gangster to a shell of a man. It’s a pretty spectacular fall from grace, even by Hollywood standards.

Capone's FBI criminal record in 1932, showing most of his criminal charges were discharged or dismissed

SCANDAL Capone was involved in numerous scandals, including the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, where seven members of a rival gang were murdered. His arrest and conviction for tax evasion in 1931 were also highly publicized.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Capone's health declined significantly in his later years due to untreated syphilis, which led to neurosyphilis. He was frequently bullied by his fellow inmates in Eastern State Penitentiary and later in Alcatraz. He also suffered from a stroke and pneumonia.

HOMES Capone lived in various luxurious homes, including a mansion in Palm Island, Florida, which he bought in 1928 and where he spent his last years.

TRAVEL Capone traveled frequently, both for his criminal operations and personal leisure. His travels included trips to Florida, California, and other states.

Capone's personal car was no ordinary vehicle. Packed with enough firepower to start a small war, it was like a mobile armory. Machine guns peeked out from the back, ready to lay waste to anything in their path. Armor plating turned it into a rolling tank, and a bulletproof gas tank meant even fire wasn't going to slow him down. And if that wasn't enough, it could even spew out a cloud of smoke to obscure the getaway.

DEATH Capone died on January 25, 1947, in his Palm Island home, surrounded by his family, after suffering a stroke. He was buried at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Capone has been portrayed in numerous films, TV shows, and books, including The Untouchables, Boardwalk Empire, and Capone.

ACHIEVEMENTS Despite his criminal activities, Capone's legacy includes his significant impact on American culture and the criminal justice system, leading to more stringent law enforcement practices and the eventual end of Prohibition.

King Canute

NAME King Canute (also known as Cnut the Great)

WHAT FAMOUS FOR King Canute is famous for being the King of England, Denmark, and Norway, and for his attempt to control the waves as a demonstration of the limits of kingly power.

BIRTH Canute was born around 995 AD somewhere in Denmark.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Canute's father, Sweyn Forkbeard, a reputed member of the Jomsburg Vikings, was recognized as King of England by the Witan in 1013. However, he died a year later. 

Canute's mother was Gunhild of Poland, daughter of Mieszko I. It's a complex lineage: Gunhild's own mother had been forcibly taken from a religious institution and married to Mieszko, who later converted to Christianity for political reasons. 

Despite this Christian influence on his mother's side, Sweyn remained pagan until his death.

CHILDHOOD Details of Canute's childhood are scarce, but he grew up in a royal and military environment, learning the skills necessary for leadership and warfare.

EDUCATION Canute's education would have been typical for a prince of his time, focusing on martial training, governance, and possibly some aspects of Scandinavian and Christian culture.

CAREER RECORD Canute established a North Sea Empire becoming one of the most powerful rulers of his era. Here's his resume:

1013: Canute accompanied his father in invading England.

1016: He was acclaimed King of England after defeating Edmund Ironside at Ashingdon.

1017 Canute was crowned King of England on January 6, 1017.

1018: Succeeded his brother, Harold, as King of Denmark.

1028: Canute conquered Norway.

APPEARANCE According to a 13th century Icelandic saga, Canute was “exceptionally tall and strong, and the handsomest of men, all except for his nose, that was thin, high-set, and rather hooked. He had a fair complexion and a fine, thick head of hair. His eyes were better than those of other men, being both more handsome and keener-sighted.”

Contemporary drawing of King Cnut from the New Minster Liber Vitae

FASHION As a king, Canute would have worn garments befitting his status, including fine furs, silks, and jewelry.

In winter he was "beserk", which in Viking language means clad in Bearskin.

CHARACTER Canute was known for being a shrewd and pragmatic ruler, combining firmness with a sense of justice.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Canute is remembered for his famous demonstration at the shore, humorously illustrating that even a king's power has limits when he commanded the tide to halt and it did not.

RELATIONSHIPS Canute was a man of action, a king of consequence. If he wanted something, he went and got it, often with a healthy dose of ruthlessness. Take his love life, for instance. He repudiated his doubtfully legal wife, Queen  Elgiua, by whom he had his son and successor, Harold Harefoot, and married in 1017 the beautiful Norman , Emma, the widow of a previous King, Ethelred the Unready. He hoped this would improve his relationship with her brother, the Duke of Normandy and promote his claim to the English throne. I guess  the fact that she was hotter than Mount Etna and was cute for Canute must have helped. She was older than him but had retained her beauty. 

Before Elgiua was unceremoniously dumped to the curb she produced a couple of kids for Canute . There was Harold, who seemed more interested in hunting than ruling kingdoms, and Sweyn, who eventually ended up king of Norway. With Emma he had three children: Cnutsson, Hardicanute, and Gunhilda.

Canute was a master of the political chessboard. He tidied over the difficulty of fixing Denmark's border with Germany by marrying his daughter, Gunhild to the son of the Holy Roman Emperor. The Germans, ever suckers for a pretty face and a royal pedigree, were instantly smitten. Problem solved. Canute, as always, came out smelling of roses.

MONEY AND FAME As a ruler of multiple kingdoms, Canute was immensely wealthy. His fame spread throughout Europe due to his military conquests and political influence.

The tale of Canute rebuking his courtiers who assured him he was so great that he could even rule the waves may or may not be true. The story goes that these courtiers – you know the type – who were so busy kissing his royal backside they’d convinced themselves he was practically a god. They told him he could command anything, even the sea.

Canute, being a smart cookie, decided to put this theory to the test. He got himself a throne, plonked it down on the beach, and issued a royal decree to the ocean: “Back off, big fella! I’m the king here!” Can you guess what happened next? The tide came in, and Canute got his feet wet.

So, he did this incredibly dramatic thing – hung up his crown. Now, whether he actually did this or if some overeager monk dreamed it up a century later for a bit of a laugh, we’ll never know. But it’s a great story, isn’t it?

Old dampfoot destroyed the Royal Mint at Cadbury, Somerset, which Ethelred the Unready had set up. 

The very last Danegeld ever to be paid, a sum of £82,500, was paid to Canute in 1018. He felt secure enough to send the invasion fleet back to Denmark with a payment of £72,000 that same year.

FOOD AND DRINK Canute would have enjoyed a diet typical of medieval royalty, including meats, fish, bread, fruits, and ale.

MUSIC AND ARTS While specific details about Canute's patronage of the arts are limited, his reign would have supported the flourishing of cultural activities in his kingdoms.

Apparently Canute composed and sung the following as he rowed past Ely "Merie sungen the Munehis binnen Ely tha cnut ching rev by." And they claim Radiohead's lyrics can be obscure...

LITERATURE Canute’s reign saw the continuation and production of many important historical documents, though none personally attributed to him.

Illiteracy was common among rulers of the era, so it's unlikely Canute was a prolific reader or writer.

NATURE Canute’s interaction with nature is famously symbolized by his attempt to command the tide.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Canute would have engaged in typical royal pastimes of the era, such as hunting and feasting.

Canute was a determined competitor. On one occasion, when his chess opponent, Earl Ulf, wouldn't let him retract a bad move, he unsportingly had him killed

SCIENCE AND MATHS His reign supported the technological and intellectual advancements of his time.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Canute was a staunch ally of the English Church, mandating Christianity for his subjects. The famous tale of his rebuke at the seashore, where he supposedly hung up his crown after realizing the limits of human power, is a testament to the complex interplay of piety and pragmatism in his character.

Baptized before assuming the English throne, Canute was a generous benefactor to the Church. He endowed monasteries, established new abbeys, and enacted laws supporting Church finances and observance. His pilgrimage to Rome in 1027 was a public display of devotion that also brought political and economic advantages.

While Canute embraced Christianity, his pagan upbringing as a worshipper of Woden shaped a strong, authoritarian leadership style. His belief in divine right monarchy fueled his absolute rule.

Picture below shows angels crown Canute as he and Emma of Normandy present a large gold cross to Hyde Abbey in Winchester

From the New Minster Liber Vitae in the British Library

POLITICS Canute was a skilled politician who managed to unify and rule over a diverse North Sea Empire, balancing the interests of different groups.

SCANDAL One notable scandal involved the alleged murder of Ælfgar, the brother of Edmund Ironside, although Canute's direct involvement is debated.

MILITARY RECORD Canute was a formidable military leader, securing his kingdoms through strategic battles and alliances, notably defeating Edmund Ironside to become King of England.

(1) As a youth he accompanied his father on his invasion of England. Canute was left in charge of his fleet at Gainsborough, Lincolnshire. 

(2) In 1016 Canute was offered the English throne after defeating Edmund Ironside at Ashingdon in Essex. He had formerly been controlled the south and Edmund, the north. He was so in control that he sent most of his army back to Denmark.

(3) Canute landed in Norway unopposed in 1028 to claim the throne, and when the Norwegian King Olaf tried to claim it back, he was defeated and killed at the 1030 Battle of Stiklestad.

(4) In 1031 he turned the tide against his enemies by conquering Scotland and forcing King Malcolm to recognise his overlordship. Amongst those who did homage to Canute was a certain Maelboethe later immortalised by Shakespeare as Macbeth. 

He defended England from Viking attacks in 1017, 1026 and 1028.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Details about Canute's health are scarce, but his successful military campaigns suggest he was physically robust and fit.

HOMES Canute’s primary residences included palaces in England, Denmark, and Norway, though specific locations are not well-documented. He continued to reside in England even after inheriting the crown of Denmark in 1018.

TRAVEL Canute travelled extensively across his empire and went on a pilgrimage to Rome in 1026. He was the first ruler to issue passports to pilgrims.

He travelled round England with his staff of secretaries, scribes and legal advisors - the first king to do.

DEATH Canute died on November 12, 1035, in Shaftesbury, Dorset, England, and was buried in Winchester. His son, Harold Harefoot, succeeded him. Canute's body was immersed in alcohol, inserted with herbs, and wrapped in waxed sheets.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA While Canute the Great lived over a millennium ago, his legacy has endured, making him a recurring figure in popular culture.

Historical Fiction: Authors often find Canute's complex character, a blend of warrior and statesman, a compelling subject. Bernard Cornwell's The Last Kingdom series, while primarily focused on Uhtred of Bebbanburg, features Canute as a significant historical figure.

Children's Literature: The story of Canute and the tide is a popular children's tale, often simplified and adapted to younger audiences.

Docudramas: While not a frequent subject, Canute has appeared in historical documentaries that explore the Viking Age and the formation of England.

Comedic Appearances: Canute's story, particularly the "Canute and the tide" anecdote, has been used for comedic effect in various TV shows and films.

ACHIEVEMENTS Canute successfully united and ruled over a vast North Sea Empire, maintained peace and stability, and left a lasting legacy in medieval European history.

Persuaded the Holy Roman Emperor to reduce tolls on English traders and travelers.

Established equal rights for Danes and enforced Anglo-Saxon customs.

Established the first English army.

The first Norse ruler to be accepted as a civilized Christian King.

Source (1) Oxford Book of English Literature