Marlene Dietrich

NAME Marlene Dietrich

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Actress, singer, and entertainer; icon of Hollywood's Golden Age; known for her sultry voice, captivating stage presence, and androgynous style. 

BIRTH Marlene Dietrich was born on December 27, 1901, at Leberstrasse 65 on the Rote Insel in Schöneberg, now a district of Berlin, Germany.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Dietrich was born into a middle-class family in the Schöneberg district of Berlin12. Her father, Louis Erich Otto Dietrich, was a police lieutenant, and her mother, Wilhelmina Elisabeth Josefine, came from an affluent Berlin family that owned a jewelry and clock-making firm2. Dietrich had one older sister, Elisabeth. Tragically, her father passed away when she was only about six years old

CHILDHOOD  As a teenager, she became interested in theater and poetry. Despite not being accepted into Max Reinhardt's drama academy initially, she persevered and eventually found work in his theaters as a chorus girl and in small dramatic roles.

Dietrich later reflected on her childhood, writing in her memoirs, "My parents were wealthy, I enjoyed the best upbringing imaginable". This privileged background and comprehensive education laid the foundation for her future success as a versatile and accomplished performer.

EDUCATION Before formal schooling, Dietrich and her sister received home tutoring, becoming fluent in both French and English by the age of twelve.  She attended the Auguste-Viktoria Girls' School from 1907 to 1917, followed by the Victoria-Luise-Schule (now the Goethe-Gymnasium) in Berlin-Wilmersdorf, from which she graduated in 1918.  

Her artistic development was nurtured through ballet, violin lessons with the renowned Bernhard Dessau, and piano instruction. In 1920, she moved to Weimar to pursue her passion for music, studying to become a concert violinist under Robert Reitz.  A wrist injury, however, tragically ended her musical aspirations in her teens.  Undeterred, Dietrich shifted her focus to acting, receiving private lessons from members of Max Reinhardt's ensemble. This training included rhythmic movement, gymnastics, fencing, and voice work, providing a solid foundation for her future stage and screen career.

CAREER RECORD Dietrich's big break came in 1930 when she was cast as Lola-Lola, a seductive cabaret singer, in The Blue Angel (Der blaue Engel). The film made her an international star and led to a contract with Paramount Pictures in Hollywood.

Her Hollywood career flourished throughout the 1930s and 1940s with films like Morocco (1930), Shanghai Express (1932), Destry Rides Again (1939), and Witness for the Prosecution (1957).

During World War II, she became known for her work entertaining Allied troops and was awarded the Medal of Freedom by the U.S. government for her efforts.

APPEARANCE Marlene Dietrich was famous for her striking facial features, high cheekbones, and piercing blue eyes. Her signature look included arched eyebrows, dramatic makeup, and platinum blonde hair. On film sets, she always had a mirror nearby to check her appearance.

Marlene Dietrich 1951

FASHION Dietrich was a trailblazer in fashion, known for her elegant gowns, top hats, and masculine-inspired clothing. Her role in Morocco (1930) popularized women wearing slacks worldwide.

Dietrich was so dedicated to her glamorous image that she insisted Max Factor sprinkle half an ounce of real gold dust into her wigs to enhance their sparkle on camera.

In May 1933, Marlene Dietrich arrived at the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris wearing a trouser suit. Dietrich's outfit caused a sensation and was widely commented on in the press,.

CHARACTER Dietrich was known for her strong personality, discipline, and professionalism. Her makeup artist once noted that she kissed so passionately that she needed a fresh coat of lipstick after every kiss scene.

SPEAKING VOICE Dietrich had a deep, sultry voice with a distinctive, husky quality that added to her allure. Her singing style was intimate and smoky, making her a captivating performer in both film and music.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Marlene Dietrich was known for her sharp wit and dry sense of humor. She often used sarcasm to disarm those around her and had a knack for self-deprecating jokes. Her humor extended to her personal life, as she would teasingly poke fun at her own legendary status, once quipping, “I am at heart a gentleman.”

RELATIONSHIPS Marlene Dietrich married Rudolf Sieber on May 17, 1923, in a civil ceremony in Berlin, Germany. Their wedding took place when Dietrich was 21 years old, shortly after they met on the set of the film Tragedy of Love in 1923. This marriage would last for 53 years, until Sieber's death in 1976.

Dietrich and Rudolf Sieber on their wedding day, 

The wedding was a significant event in Dietrich's life, occurring early in her career before she achieved international stardom. At the time, Dietrich was still working in German theater and film productions, and Sieber was an assistant casting director. Their union marked the beginning of what would become one of the most unusual and enduring marriages in show business history, characterized by long separations and an unconventional arrangement that allowed for both partners to pursue other relationships while remaining married.

Beyond her marriage, Dietrich had a reputation for numerous high-profile affairs with both men and women, including Jean Gabin, Erich Maria Remarque, and possibly even John F. Kennedy. She was known for her passionate yet fleeting romantic entanglements, but she maintained deep lifelong friendships with many of her former lovers.

Marlene Dietrich had one child, a daughter named Maria Elisabeth Sieber, who was born on December 13, 1924, in Berlin. Maria later became known professionally as Maria Riva and worked as an actress, primarily in television.

MONEY AND FAME Dietrich was one of the highest-paid actresses of Hollywood’s Golden Age, commanding a then-unprecedented $200,000 per film in the early 1930s. However, she was pragmatic about wealth, famously stating, “Glamour is what I sell; it’s my stock in trade.” Unlike some of her contemporaries, she lived relatively modestly, investing wisely and ensuring her financial security long after her film career waned.

FOOD AND DRINK Dietrich was a passionate cook and took pride in preparing meals for her guests. She was known for making delicious German dishes, particularly her homemade soups and stews. She had a particular fondness for caviar and champagne but was not a heavy drinker herself. When traveling, she carried her own spices and cooking equipment, believing that a well-prepared meal was essential to good living.

MUSIC AND ARTS Dietrich had a lifelong love for music, both as a performer and a fan. She was trained as a violinist before turning to acting and later became an iconic cabaret singer. She worked closely with composer Burt Bacharach, who helped shape her distinctive nightclub act in the 1950s and '60s. Even in her later years, her husky, melancholic voice continued to captivate audiences worldwide.

In The Blue Angel, she famously sang "Falling in Love Again," but the scene required 236 retakes because she had trouble pronouncing the word "moths."

During her USO tours, Dietrich was noted for playing music on a saw, which was particularly enjoyed by the soldiers. (1)

CINEMA If Hollywood had a Mount Rushmore of cinematic cool, Marlene Dietrich’s chiseled cheekbones would be right up there, glaring down at the world with an eyebrow slightly raised in amused detachment. Her film career, which astonishingly spanned nearly seven decades, reads like a whirlwind tour through the evolution of cinema itself—beginning in the silent era and ending with a delightfully grumpy refusal to be filmed for a documentary about her own life.

Dietrich’s early years in German silent films were a bit like the warm-up act before the main event. She popped up in films like The Little Napoleon (1923) and Café Elektric (1927), exuding an already magnetic presence but largely waiting for something big to happen. Then, as luck (and considerable talent) would have it, that “something big” turned out to be The Blue Angel (1930), a film that not only launched her into international superstardom but also introduced the world to the seductive, smoky strains of “Falling in Love Again.”

After The Blue Angel, Dietrich packed up her sultry glances and razor-sharp wit and headed straight for Hollywood, where she quickly became Paramount Pictures' answer to Greta Garbo. Under the direction of the extravagantly meticulous Josef von Sternberg, she made a string of visually stunning films in which she smoldered, schemed, and generally outclassed everyone around her. Among them:

Morocco (1930), where she famously wore a tuxedo, kissed a woman, and single-handedly set back Hollywood gender norms by about a century.

Shanghai Express (1932), a gorgeously lit, ludicrously plotted film in which Dietrich’s main job was to be enigmatic and stunning, both of which she did exceptionally well.

The Scarlet Empress (1934), in which she played Catherine the Great with such dazzling excess that the set itself practically burst into flames out of sheer admiration.

By the late 1930s, Dietrich’s star had dimmed a little, and some Hollywood executives even labeled her “box office poison” (which, frankly, says more about their poor judgment than anything else). But then along came Destry Rides Again (1939), a Western comedy where Dietrich played a feisty saloon singer opposite Jimmy Stewart, proving that not only could she do comedy, but she could do it while starting a barroom brawl. This single-handedly resurrected her career and led to more films, including Seven Sinners (1940) and The Spoilers (1942), both of which leaned heavily on her newfound knack for playing a woman who looks like trouble but turns out to have a heart of gold.

After World War II—during which she had done the extraordinary by literally going to war zones to entertain the troops—Dietrich settled into a series of film roles that reinforced her legendary status. Billy Wilder cast her in A Foreign Affair (1948), where she played a sultry nightclub singer (because of course she did), and Alfred Hitchcock put her in Stage Fright (1950), where she got to be enigmatic and stunning all over again. Other highlights included:

Witness for the Prosecution (1957), where she did a staggering number of accent changes and dramatic double-crosses, leaving audiences deliciously confused and delighted.

Touch of Evil (1958), where she played opposite Orson Welles and delivered what is arguably the best closing line in cinema history: “He was some kind of a man.”

Judgment at Nuremberg (1961), in which she played a woman grappling with Germany’s wartime atrocities, a role that hit uncomfortably close to home.

By the 1960s, Dietrich was winding down her film career, though she still made memorable appearances in Paris When It Sizzles (1964) (blink and you’ll miss her) and Just a Gigolo (1978), which she apparently agreed to do because David Bowie asked nicely. Her very last on-screen appearance was in Marlene (1984), a documentary she agreed to participate in under one condition—she would not, under any circumstances, be filmed. Which is classic Dietrich, really.

Even after her film career ended, Dietrich remained an icon. She was the embodiment of glamour, cool sophistication, and effortless rebellion. In 1999, the American Film Institute ranked her as the ninth-greatest female star of classic Hollywood cinema—though if she were around to hear that, she’d probably roll her eyes and tell them they were late to the party.

LITERATURE A voracious reader, Dietrich had an impressive library and was particularly fond of German literature. She admired the works of Goethe and Thomas Mann and had a deep intellectual connection with author Erich Maria Remarque. She was also known to carry a copy of Rilke’s poetry with her wherever she went.

Her autobiography Nehmt nur mein Leben (Take Just My Life), was published in 1979

NATURE Though she was often associated with glamorous city life, Dietrich had a deep appreciation for nature. She loved flowers, particularly orchids and roses, and took pride in her knowledge of plants. While she was rarely seen engaging in outdoor activities, she enjoyed the serenity of gardens and often found inspiration in natural beauty.

PETS Dietrich had a great love for animals and often surrounded herself with pets, particularly dogs. She was known to be extremely affectionate with them, treating them as members of her family. At one point, she even had a pet lion cub, which she kept briefly before realizing it was not practical to raise such a creature in a city setting.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS She was an expert knitter and often knitted on film sets and during her travels. She also loved playing cards, particularly bridge, and was known to be quite competitive. 

Unlike many of her Hollywood peers, she had little interest in traditional sports but maintained a strict fitness regimen to keep her legendary figure. 

Defying conventional gender roles, Dietrich practiced boxing at Sabri Mahir's studio in Berlin in the late 1920s

SCIENCE AND MATHS Dietrich was an early adopter of technology. She was fascinated by engineering and mechanics, often surprising men with her knowledge of how things worked. During World War II, she toured with the USO and personally helped repair damaged military equipment, impressing soldiers with her technical skills.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Dietrich was not religious in a traditional sense, though she often referenced moral codes of honor and duty. She had a strong belief in personal integrity and despised hypocrisy. Her philosophy in life was rooted in independence, self-reliance, and an unwavering commitment to justice, which influenced her political and personal decisions. She also admired existentialist thinkers and often read philosophical works.

POLITICS Dietrich was a staunch anti-fascist, which greatly shaped her public and private life. During the 1940s, she distanced herself from her German homeland, actively participating in the war effort alongside her Hollywood contemporaries. She openly opposed Adolf Hitler and rejected invitations to return to Nazi Germany as a national icon. Her political stance made her controversial in post-war Germany, where she was met with hostility by some for siding with the Allies.

SCANDAL Dietrich’s personal life was often a subject of scandal, particularly due to her many affairs with both men and women. Her rumored open marriage to Rudolph Sieber fueled speculation, as did her alleged relationships with figures like Jean Gabin, Erich Maria Remarque, and John F. Kennedy. In addition, her rejection of Nazi Germany and her embrace of American values led to accusations of betrayal from some German nationals.

MILITARY RECORD Dietrich’s contributions to World War II were extraordinary. She not only performed on multiple War Bond promotional tours but also traveled to active war zones, entertaining Allied troops on the front lines. She recorded a version of "Lili Marleen" in her native German, designed to demoralize enemy soldiers. Her tireless work for the troops earned her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States.

Dietrich with airmen of the 401st Bomb Group (September 29, 1944)

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Dietrich maintained a disciplined approach to her health and physique, which contributed to her legendary image. She followed strict beauty and diet regimens, avoided excessive drinking, and kept up with a demanding performance schedule well into her later years. However, in her final decades, she suffered from various ailments, including arthritis and kidney disease, which led her to live in seclusion.

HOMES Throughout her life, Dietrich resided in several glamorous locations. In Hollywood, she lived in a stylish estate that became a gathering place for intellectuals and artists. Later, she settled in Paris, where she spent her final years in near-complete isolation in a modest apartment on Avenue Montaigne.

TRAVEL Dietrich was a world traveler, performing across Europe, North America, and Asia during her concert tours. She traveled extensively during World War II, often under dangerous conditions, to entertain soldiers. Even in her later years, she maintained a fascination with different cultures and was known for carrying personal cooking ingredients wherever she went.

DEATH Marlene Dietrich died on May 6, 1992, at the age of 90. She passed away in her Paris apartment, where she had lived in relative seclusion for the last 12 years of her life. The exact cause of death was not specified, though some sources attributed it to renal failure and others to natural causes or old age

A solemn funeral service was held for Dietrich on May 14, 1992, at the Madeleine church in Paris. Her closed coffin, draped in the French flag and adorned with a simple bouquet of white wildflowers, rested beneath the altar. Three medals, including France's Legion of Honor, were displayed at the foot of the coffin in military style. The ceremony paid tribute to Dietrich's sense of duty, both in her career and her fight against Nazism. About 1,500 mourners attended the service inside the church, with thousands more outside.

Following Dietrich's wishes, her body was flown to Berlin on May 16, 1992, for burial. She was interred at the Städtischer Friedhof III cemetery in Berlin-Friedenau, next to her mother's grave. The burial was a relatively small affair, attended by about 50 mourners, including Dietrich's daughter, Maria Riva.

Her gravestone bears the inscription: "Hier steh ich an den Marken meiner Tage" ("Here I stand at the marks of my days"), a line from Theodor Körner’s sonnet Abschied vom Leben ("Farewell to Life").

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Dietrich’s legacy endures through numerous portrayals in film, literature, and documentaries. She was the subject of the acclaimed documentary Marlene (1984), directed by Maximilian Schell, in which she refused to appear on camera but gave a candid audio interview. Her life has also been dramatized in books and television, cementing her place as one of the most fascinating icons of the 20th century.

ACHIEVEMENTS  International film star, acclaimed singer, fashion icon, and anti-Nazi activist. 

 Dietrich received numerous awards and honors, including an Academy Award nomination for Morocco.  

She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her service during World War II and received France’s Legion of Honour.

A cultural icon, her influence on fashion, film, and music remains immeasurable.

Source Women's History.org

Rudolf Diesel

NAME Rudolf Diesel

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Rudolf Diesel is best known as the inventor of the diesel engine, a groundbreaking development in the field of internal combustion engines that has had a lasting impact on transportation and industry worldwide.

BIRTH Rudolf Diesel was born on March 18, 1858, at 38 Rue Notre Dame de Nazareth in Paris, France. He was the second of three children born to Elise (née Strobel) and Theodor Diesel.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Diesel's parents were Bavarian immigrants who had moved to Paris. His father, Theodor Diesel, was a leatherworker, while his mother, Elise Strobel, managed the household. The family’s financial situation was modest, and they often faced challenges due to their immigrant status.

CHILDHOOD Rudolf Diesel grew up in a multicultural environment in Paris. He showed an early interest in engineering, often visiting the National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts in Paris.

However, during the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, the family was forced to leave France due to rising tensions and anti-German sentiment. They relocated to London and later settled in Augsburg, Germany, where Diesel spent much of his formative years.

EDUCATION In 1870, when Rudolf was 12 years old, the Franco-Prussian War broke out, forcing the Diesel family to be deported from France. They initially moved to London, but young Rudolf was soon sent to Augsburg, Germany, to live with his aunt and uncle. This move was intended to help him become fluent in German and continue his education6.

In Augsburg, Rudolf attended the Königliche Kreis-Gewerbeschule (Royal County Vocational College), where his uncle taught mathematics. He excelled in his studies, demonstrating a remarkable aptitude for engineering and technical subjects.

At the age of 17, in 1875, Rudolf Diesel's academic prowess earned him a scholarship to the Royal Bavarian Polytechnic of Munich (now known as the Technical University of Munich) This was against his father's wishes, who wanted him to start working instead of pursuing further education.

At the Polytechnic, Diesel studied under Professor Carl von Linde, a pioneer in refrigeration technology. Despite contracting typhoid fever, which delayed his graduation, Diesel persevered. He graduated in January 1880 with highest academic honors.

During his studies, Diesel gained practical engineering experience at the Sulzer Brothers Machine Works in Winterthur, Switzerland. This hands-on experience complemented his theoretical knowledge and laid the foundation for his future innovations

CAREER RECORD

Rudolf Diesel began his career working for Carl von Linde’s refrigeration company. His deep understanding of thermodynamics led him to pursue the concept of an engine that could achieve greater fuel efficiency. 

In 1893, Diesel published a paper outlining the principles of what would become the diesel engine. By 1897, he had successfully built the first working prototype, which demonstrated unmatched efficiency compared to steam engines of the time. Diesel’s invention revolutionized the transportation and industrial sectors and earned him international acclaim.

APPEARANCE Rudolf Diesel was described as a tall and handsome man. He stood at an impressive height of 185 cm (approximately 6 feet 1 inch). This towering stature likely contributed to his commanding presence as an inventor and engineer.

In his later years, Diesel's appearance changed as he aged. By 1912, when he was in his mid-50s, he was described as having a mane of gray hair. 

 He had sharp, intelligent eyes behind round spectacles, a neatly groomed beard, and a serious demeanor that reflected his methodical nature.

Rudolf Diesel c1900

FASHION Diesel’s clothing choices were practical and understated. He typically wore well-tailored suits that were modest rather than flashy, often opting for dark colors that reflected his professional and disciplined personality.

CHARACTER Rudolf Diesel was known for his intellectual curiosity, relentless determination, and meticulous approach to problem-solving. Despite his successes, he was a modest and reserved individual who remained dedicated to advancing science and technology. Diesel also faced bouts of anxiety and financial stress, which took a toll on his mental health later in life.

SPEAKING VOICE  He was fluent in several languages, including German, French, and English, which allowed him to communicate effectively in international circles.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Rudolf Diesel, though a brilliant and serious engineer, was known to have a wry sense of humor. This personality trait often emerged when discussing his engine. Diesel once remarked that his invention was as stubborn as he was, but he joked that at least it “worked harder than most people.”

RELATIONSHIPS Rudolf Diesel married Martha Flasche on September 16, 1883, in Munich, Germany. Their marriage was preceded by the publication of their marriage banns in Paris, France. Rudolf Diesel was 25 years old at the time of his marriage. Martha Flasche, born in 1860, was the daughter of Wilhelm Flasche, a notary from Remscheid, and Bertha Dischreit. Prior to meeting Diesel, Martha had been working as a German governess in Paris.

They had three children: Rudolf Jr., Eugen and Heddy

Despite the financial pressures and Rudolf's demanding career, their marriage appears to have been a happy one. Rudolf was known to write glowing love letters to Martha throughout their marriage, even up to his last days. These letters indicated a strong bond between the couple, with no hint of the troubles that would lead to his mysterious disappearance in 1913.

Diesel's relationships with investors and partners were not always smooth. The intense pressure of his work often caused strain, as he was a perfectionist.

MONEY AND FAME Diesel experienced the highs and lows of financial success. His engine's invention brought him fame and significant financial rewards, especially after the World Fair in 1900. However, poor investments and disputes over royalties left Diesel struggling with money in later years. By the time of his mysterious death in 1913, his finances were in disarray.

FOOD AND DRINK Diesel had a simple palate and preferred hearty German meals. He enjoyed traditional Bavarian dishes and often paired them with a beer. 

During his travels to the United States, Diesel met Thomas Edison, who joked with him, saying "Don't eat too much!"

Diesel was critical of the American lifestyle, particularly noting the consumption of canned foods, which he attributed to monopolistic practices.

MUSIC AND ARTS Rudolf Diesel appreciated classical music and often listened to it while working on designs. He found inspiration in the works of Beethoven, whose powerful compositions mirrored Diesel’s drive and ambition.

Rudolf Diesel was not just a passive consumer of music; he was also a talented musician himself. He was described as a "gifted piano player." (1)

Diesel also enjoyed attending theatre performances and opera.

Diesel believed that art and beauty served a purpose beyond mere ornamentation. He shared the ancient Greek belief that art could elevate human aspirations

LITERATURE Diesel was an avid reader of technical manuals, engineering texts, and philosophy. He admired works that explored the human capacity for invention and progress, often quoting passages that resonated with his engineering principles.

NATURE Diesel was fascinated by nature’s efficiency. His inspiration for the diesel engine stemmed partly from his observations of natural processes and his admiration for how energy was utilized in the natural world.

PETS Diesel expressed a fondness for horses. He appreciated their strength and reliability, which mirrored the qualities he sought in his engines.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Diesel’s primary hobby was tinkering with engines and machines. Outside of work, he enjoyed cycling, which he found both relaxing and a practical way to stay fit.

In his later years, as Diesel achieved some financial success, he took up photography as a serious hobby. 

SCIENCE AND MATHS Diesel excelled in science and mathematics, which became the foundation for his engineering career. His ability to apply theoretical principles to practical problems was key to his success. He was deeply influenced by thermodynamics and pursued the dream of creating a more efficient engine. 

INVENTIONS Rudolf Diesel’s crowning achievement was the invention of the diesel engine. His design relied on the compression-ignition principle, inspired by the Malaysian ‘fire piston’ technique he witnessed during a lecture. 

Diesel’s first engine, completed in 1897 with the support of the Krupp company, demonstrated the revolutionary potential of his invention. He was awarded US Patent No. 608,845 on August 9, 1898 and showcased his engine at the 1900 World Fair,. This paved the way for modern biodiesel technology.

The name "diesel" is derived from Rudolf Diesel himself, honoring his groundbreaking work.

Diesel’s first engine design, completed in 1897, is displayed at the Deutsches Museum in Munich, Germany. 

At the 1900 World Fair, Diesel’s engine famously ran on peanut oil, highlighting its versatility and foreshadowing the potential for biodiesel fuels. 

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Rudolf Diesel was deeply influenced by the philosophical and theological ideas of his time. He believed in the power of human ingenuity and progress to transform society, often quoting thinkers like Immanuel Kant. Diesel saw his invention not just as a mechanical marvel but as a way to uplift the working class by providing more efficient and accessible energy sources.

Rudolf Diesel was raised in a Protestant family and had a religious upbringing. Since his 13th birthday, he had been a rather devout Lutheran, viewing Lutheranism as a symbol of international religious liberation, suggesting an early appreciation for the faith.

As Diesel grew older, his religious views seem to have undergone a significant shift. He rejected organized religion in favor of rational humanism, a philosophical movement gaining popularity at the time. This shift may have been partly influenced by his father's strong embrace of alternative healing practices like magnetic healing, which may have challenged traditional religious beliefs.

While Diesel moved away from organized religion, he maintained a certain spiritual outlook. He believed in the concept of "hope eternal" and the importance of having an eternal perspective. His work was often driven by idealistic and utopian visions, suggesting a sense of higher purpose beyond material concerns.

POLITICS Diesel was politically aware and had a strong interest in social reform. He envisioned his engine as a tool to democratize energy access and improve the lives of ordinary people. He believed that efficient and versatile energy could reduce societal inequalities and empower small industries.

SCANDAL Diesel’s later years were marked by scandal and financial difficulties. Despite the fame of his invention, Diesel made poor investments and became embroiled in disputes over patent rights and royalties. These financial struggles caused great stress and tarnished his reputation.

MILITARY RECORD In 1870, when Rudolf Diesel was 12 years old, the Franco-German War broke out. This conflict had immediate consequences for the Diesel family as the family, being of German descent, was deported from France due to rising anti-German sentiment.

While Diesel did not serve in the military, his invention had a significant impact on military technology. The diesel engine’s efficiency and reliability made it a preferred choice for submarines, naval vessels, and military vehicles in the 20th century.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Diesel’s health was a concern throughout his life. He suffered from bouts of poor physical and mental health, exacerbated by the immense pressure of his work and financial troubles. His struggles with insomnia and stress likely contributed to his untimely demise.

HOMES The Diesel family lived in various locations throughout their marriage, including Paris, Berlin, and Munich. In 1899, they moved into a grand mansion at 32 Maria-Theresia-Strasse in Munich, which was custom-built for them. This luxurious home, known as Villa Diesel, featured modern amenities and lavish decorations, though its construction pushed the family's finances to precarious limits.

TRAVEL As an inventor and businessman, Diesel traveled extensively throughout Europe to promote and develop his engine. His journeys included visits to industrial hubs and exhibitions, such as the 1900 World Fair in Paris, where he showcased his engine running on peanut oil. Tragically, it was during one such journey to London in 1913 that he met his mysterious end.

DEATH Rudolf Diesel’s death remains one of the most intriguing mysteries in industrial history. On September 29, 1913, while aboard the steamer Dresden en route to London, Diesel disappeared. His body was spotted floating in the North Sea on October 10 but was returned to the water due to its advanced decomposition. Personal items retrieved from the body were later identified by his son, Eugen. 

Theories about his death range from accidental drowning to suicide, possibly due to his financial troubles. His wife Martha discovered 200,000 German marks in cash in a bag Diesel had given her before the voyage, adding to the mystery of his final days.

Tragically, five months after Rudolf's disappearance, in March 1914, Martha Diesel went missing in Germany. This added another layer of mystery to the already perplexing story of the Diesel family.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA  Diesel’s life and invention are regularly highlighted in documentaries about industrial history, engineering, and innovation. These programs often focus on his contributions to the development of the internal combustion engine and his vision of using alternative fuels like vegetable oils. Documentaries also explore his tragic death, speculating on the circumstances of his disappearance.

Diesel is frequently mentioned in books about inventors, industrial history, and mechanical engineering. Titles like The Diesel Engine: Powering the Modern World explore his contributions, while works on historical mysteries delve into his disappearance. His story is often included in compilations of inventors who changed the world.

The name "diesel" has transcended its origin and become synonymous with power and efficiency. This cultural impact has led to mentions of Diesel in unexpected places, such as video games, music lyrics, and even fashion brands (though unrelated to him personally). His name is also often invoked metaphorically to represent reliability and innovation.

ACHIEVEMENTS Rudolf Diesel’s most notable achievement was the invention of the diesel engine, named after him.  The first diesel locomotive was introduced in Germany in 1912, underscoring the engine’s transformative impact on transportation. 

Diesel’s invention laid the groundwork for modern engines and alternative fuels like biodiesel, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest inventors of the industrial era.

Each year, National Biodiesel Day on March 18th commemorates the birthday of  Rudolf Diesel on March 18, 1858. 

Sources (1) Factinate

Emily Dickinson

NAME Emily Elizabeth Dickinson

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Emily Dickinson is renowned as one of the greatest American poets. She is celebrated for her unique, innovative poetic style and profound exploration of themes like death, immortality, nature, and love.

BIRTH Emily Dickinson was born on December 10, 1830, at the family homestead in Amherst, Massachusetts.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Dickinson was born into a prominent but not wealthy family. Her father, Edward Dickinson, was a lawyer and a politician, serving as a treasurer of Amherst College and a member of the U.S. Congress. Her mother, Emily Norcross Dickinson, managed the household. Emily was the middle child, with an older brother, Austin, and a younger sister, Lavinia, both of whom played significant roles in her life.

The Dickinson Children (Emily on the left), c. 1840. 

CHILDHOOD Emily grew up in Amherst, Massachusetts, in a household that valued education and community standing. Her family’s homestead, surrounded by gardens, provided an inspiring backdrop for her imaginative childhood.

EDUCATION Emily started attending Amherst Academy with her sister Lavinia on September 7, 1840. The Academy had only recently opened its doors to female students. Dickinson spent seven years there, studying a wide range of subjects, including English, classical literature, Latin, botany, geology, history, arithmetic, and "mental philosophy." Her school principal, Daniel Taggart Fiske, remembered her as "very bright" and "an excellent scholar, of exemplary deportment, faithful in all school duties."

CAREER RECORD Emily Dickinson did not pursue a conventional career. Instead, she devoted her life to writing poetry, producing nearly 1,800 poems, most of which were unpublished during her lifetime. After her death in 1886, her work was gradually published and celebrated for its originality and depth, securing her legacy as a literary icon.

APPEARANCE Dickinson was described as diminutive or small in stature. She had asymmetrical pupils, possibly due to astigmatism in one eye. Dickinson herself compared her eyes to "the Sherry in the Glass, that the Guest leaves." She described her hair as "bold, like the Chestnut Bur," reddish in color, and arranged in two smooth bands. Dickinson referred to herself as having a "gypsy face."

In her later years, Dickinson became known for wearing white clothing. Her one surviving dress is white, and she was buried in white. In her youth, Dickinson's clothing style was typical of the 1850s, including jacket-style bodices, narrow undersleeves, and chemisettes with collars.

The only authenticated photograph of Dickinson shows her at 16, described as a thin teenager. In her twenties, Dickinson's health improved, and she reportedly became a little "fat." Those who saw her in later life described her as "bright-eyed, clear-skinned, attractive and womanly."

Daguerreotype taken at Mount Holyoke, December 1846 or early 1847

FASHION In her youth, Dickinson's clothing style was typical of the 1850s, including jacket-style bodices, narrow undersleeves, and chemisettes with collars.

In her later years, Dickinson became known for wearing white dresses, a detail that has since become iconic in her image.

CHARACTER Dickinson was intensely private, often retreating into her home and preferring solitude. She had a keen intellect, a vivid imagination, and a deep sensitivity, which permeated her poetry.

SPEAKING VOICE Emily Dickinson spoke in a soft, childlike voice, a trait remembered by those who interacted with her.

SENSE OF HUMOR Emily was known for her wit and clever wordplay. Her letters often contained humorous observations, and she had a playful way of expressing herself. Despite her reclusive nature, her correspondence reveals a sharp, lively sense of humor.

One excellent example of her wit can be found in her poem "I'm Nobody! Who are you?," where she humorously celebrates the joys of anonymity and outsider status, subverting societal expectations with a whimsical tone

I'm Nobody! Who are you?

Are you – Nobody – too?

Then there's a pair of us!

Don't tell! they'd advertise - you know!

How dreary – to be – Somebody!

How public – like a Frog –

To tell one's name - the livelong June –

To an admiring Bog!

RELATIONSHIPS Although Emily never married, her letters and poems reveal intense emotional connections with others, including her sister-in-law Susan Gilbert Dickinson and Samuel Bowles, editor of the Springfield Republican.

In 1855, during a visit to Philadelphia, Emily and her mother met the charismatic preacher Reverend Charles Wadsworth. Despite being married, Wadsworth formed a deep and lasting bond with Emily, a relationship that would shape much of her later poetry. Emily referred to him as her “closest earthly friend,” and their connection remained strong until his death in 1882.

MONEY AND FAME Emily Dickinson led a quiet life and shunned fame during her lifetime. Only ten of her nearly 1,800 poems were published while she was alive, all anonymously and heavily edited. She achieved posthumous fame when her younger sister Lavinia discovered her collection of poems after her death and ensured they were published.

FOOD AND DRINK Dickinson loved to bake, and her gingerbread was especially popular in Amherst. She often sent baked goods to friends and neighbors as tokens of affection. Her kitchen skills were a lesser-known aspect of her domestic life, and her recipes were highly valued by those close to her. 

She won second prize at the 1856 Amherst Cattle Show for her Indian and rye loaf. (1)

Dickinson often wrote poems in the kitchen, drafting verses on wrappers and other kitchen papers

MUSIC AND ARTS Emily had a love for music, particularly the piano, which she played in her youth. Her appreciation for the arts extended to her fascination with poetic form and her inventive use of language and rhythm, which gave her work a musical quality.

LITERATURE An avid reader, Emily drew inspiration from works of literature. Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre was one of her favorite novels. She named her beloved dog Carlo after the pointer owned by St. John Rivers in the novel. She was also influenced by the works of Shakespeare, the Bible, and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

She maintained extensive correspondences with friends, family, and literary figures. Her letters often included poems or were poetic in nature.

Her famous phrase, "The Heart Wants What It Wants," originated in an 1862 letter to Mary Bowles and is now part of cultural lexicon. After her death in 1886, Lavinia Dickinson discovered Emily’s locked chest containing nearly 1,800 poems, leading to the first volume of her work being published four years later.

POETRY Emily Dickinson began writing poetry in her youth, inspired by a gift of Ralph Waldo Emerson's poetry. She composed over 1,800 poems during her lifetime, often writing in the kitchen or her bedroom. 

In the summer of 1858, Emily began assembling manuscript books of her poetry into small handmade booklets called "fascicles," a meticulous process of reviewing and refining her earlier works. This marked the beginning of her lasting legacy. She experimented with unconventional punctuation and syntax, creating a unique poetic style.

After her death, her sister Lavinia discovered her poems in a locked chest. Her first volume was published posthumously in 1890, with later editions restoring her distinctive punctuation and form.

Emily Dickinson’s life may have been confined to a single town, but her poetry shattered the walls of convention and left an indelible mark on American literature. Though she published only ten poems in her lifetime (and those were heavily edited to conform to Victorian sensibilities), her posthumous collection of nearly 1,800 poems revealed a writer decades ahead of her time.

Her influence on modern poetry is immeasurable. Dickinson gave writers permission to experiment, to break rules, and to embrace the strange and the beautiful in equal measure. Today, she remains a beacon for anyone bold enough to find their own voice, even if no one understands it—at least not at first.

So, here’s to Emily Dickinson: the poet who turned reclusion into revelation, punctuation into poetry, and life’s simplest moments into the grandest questions of all.

Dickinson's handwritten manuscript of her poem "Wild Nights – Wild Nights!"

NATURE Dickinson had a profound connection with nature, which she often explored on long walks through the woods and fields of Amherst. She and her sister Lavinia tended the Homestead garden, a local marvel admired for its beauty. Emily began studying botany at the age of nine, compiling a sixty-six-page herbarium with 424 specimens. Her love for the natural world is evident throughout her poetry.

PETS Emily’s only pet was a Newfoundland dog named Carlo, a gift from her father in 1849. Carlo was a faithful companion during her long walks and a source of comfort in her otherwise solitary life. Her affection for Carlo was reflected in her writing, where she often used animals as metaphors.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Emily’s primary hobby was gardening. She spent countless hours cultivating flowers and plants, finding both solace and inspiration in the activity. Her herbarium remains a testament to her passion for botany.

Dickinson was an avid reader. She studied literature extensively and was particularly fond of poetry.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Though primarily known as a poet, Emily was deeply interested in science, particularly botany. Her meticulous collection and classification of plants using the Linnaean system showcase her analytical side. This scientific precision often translated into her poetry’s structure and themes.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY In 1845, a religious revival swept through Western Massachusetts, profoundly influencing a young Emily Dickinson. Though she never made a formal declaration of faith, this period inspired her to begin writing poetry. For a few years, Dickinson attended church services regularly, but by 1852, she abandoned organized religion. Her skepticism about traditional worship is reflected in her poem, “Some keep the Sabbath going to Church – I keep it, staying at Home.” Her spiritual philosophy often wrestled with themes of mortality, immortality, and the human soul, expressed in her uniquely enigmatic style.

POLITICS Emily Dickinson rarely engaged directly with politics in her writing or personal life. Living through the Civil War, she was deeply affected by the societal upheaval and loss, which often found indirect expression in her poetry. However, she largely avoided public discussions, preferring to focus on individual experiences and universal themes rather than political commentary.

SCANDAL Dickinson lived a reclusive life, and her unconventional behavior occasionally sparked local gossip. From 1867 onward, she spoke to visitors only from behind a closed door and was rarely seen in public, often dressed entirely in white. Her relationship with the married Reverend Charles Wadsworth, whom she met in 1855, also led to speculation. While their bond remained platonic, it was considered intense and deeply emotional, fueling much of her poetry about longing and separation.

MILITARY RECORD Emily Dickinson had no direct involvement in the military, but the American Civil War profoundly influenced her poetry. The war’s tragedies and its impact on her community informed her meditations on death, grief, and human resilience.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Dickinson’s health was a subject of concern throughout her life. She was diagnosed with “nervous prostration” by a physician, though modern scholars suggest she may have suffered from agoraphobia, epilepsy, or other chronic conditions. Her reclusive nature, combined with her role as caregiver to her ailing mother, likely contributed to her physical and mental health struggles.

HOMES Dickinson spent almost her entire life at the Homestead in Amherst, Massachusetts. The family home was both her sanctuary and creative space. She rarely ventured beyond its grounds after the mid-1850s, immersing herself in her poetry, correspondence, and the tending of the Homestead’s admired garden.

TRAVEL Emily Dickinson’s travels were minimal. A significant exception was her 1855 trip to Philadelphia, where she met Reverend Charles Wadsworth. This encounter proved pivotal in her personal and creative life. Beyond occasional visits to nearby towns, Dickinson rarely left Amherst.

DEATH Emily Dickinson died on May 15, 1886, at the age of 55, following a period of declining health. Her physician attributed her death to Bright’s disease, a chronic kidney condition. She was laid to rest in a white coffin adorned with vanilla-scented heliotrope, a Lady’s Slipper orchid, and blue field violets. 

Her funeral, held on May 19, 1886 in the Homestead’s library, was a simple and intimate affair. Thomas Wentworth Higginson, a friend and literary correspondent of Dickinson, read Emily Brontë's poem "No Coward Soul Is Mine" at the service, as Dickinson had requested.

Following the service, Dickinson's coffin was carried through fields of buttercups to West Cemetery on Triangle Street, where she was buried in the family plot

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Emily Dickinson’s life and work have inspired countless portrayals in literature, film, television, and other media, offering interpretations that range from historically grounded to whimsically imaginative. 

Here’s a rundown of her notable appearances and adaptations:

A Quiet Passion (2016): Cynthia Nixon stars as Emily Dickinson in this biographical drama directed by Terence Davies. The film paints a deeply emotional portrait of Dickinson’s life, exploring her relationships, reclusive tendencies, and poetic genius with reverent detail.

Dickinson (2019–2021): This Apple TV+ series offers a wildly modern take on Emily’s life, blending period drama with contemporary humor, language, and music. Hailee Steinfeld plays Emily as a rebellious, free-spirited young woman ahead of her time. The show reimagines her relationships, career struggles, and poetic genius in ways designed to resonate with younger audiences.

Emily Dickinson: A Certain Slant of Light (2006: This PBS documentary dives into Dickinson’s life and work, combining expert commentary, readings, and reenactments to bring the poet’s story to life.

The Belle of Amherst (1976): A one-woman play by William Luce, starring Julie Harris, who won a Tony Award for her portrayal of Dickinson. The play is based on Dickinson’s poems, letters, and biography, creating a vivid and deeply personal portrayal of her life.

The Emily Dickinson Reader (2013) by Paul Legault humorously "translates" her poems into modern English.

Lives Like Loaded Guns: Emily Dickinson and Her Family’s Feuds (2010) by Lyndall Gordon is a gripping biography that delves into Dickinson’s family drama and its influence on her work.

Many musicians have drawn inspiration from Dickinson’s poetry. Composer Aaron Copland famously set 12 of her poems to music in his “Twelve Poems of Emily Dickinson” (1950), a hauntingly beautiful song cycle.

Emily Dickinson has been referenced in pop culture as a symbol of mystery, creativity, and unconventionality. Shows like The Simpsons and Gilmore Girls have humorously nodded to her reclusive genius.

ACHIEVEMENTS Despite publishing only ten poems during her lifetime, Emily Dickinson left behind an unparalleled legacy. Dickinson is now celebrated as one of the greatest poets in American literature, revered for her innovative use of language, profound themes, and enduring impact on poetry.

Source (1) Gourmet Traveller

Charles Dickens

NAME Charles Dickens

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Charles Dickens is one of the most celebrated authors in English literature, renowned for his vivid characters, social commentary, and masterful storytelling. His works include classics like A Christmas Carol, Oliver Twist, Great Expectations, and David Copperfield.

BIRTH Charles Dickens was born on February 7, 1812, at 393 Commercial Road, Portsea, near Portsmouth, England.

Charles Dickens's birthplace, 393 Commercial Road, Portsmouth. By Austriantraveler - Wikipedia

FAMILY BACKGROUND His father, John Dickens, was a naval pay clerk stationed in Chatham, Kent. John was a friendly man but struggled with financial responsibility, which often led him into debt and even debtors’ prison.

His mother, Elizabeth Dickens, also spent time in a debtors' prison. Charles was fonder of his amiable father than his more practical, unsympathetic mother. He based Mr. Micawber from David Copperfield on his father and Mrs. Nickleby from Nicholas Nickleby on his mother.

Charles Dickens had seven siblings in total: five younger brothers and two sisters- one younger and one older.

His older sister Fanny) Dickens was closest to him in childhood. She was a talented musician who studied at the Royal Academy of Music

CHILDHOOD Charles Dickens's early life was marked by hardship and instability. In the early 1820s, his father was imprisoned for debt, forcing the family to endure a period of extreme poverty. Young Charles, working from the age of ten, found solace in playing near the coal barges and wandering the streets with his friends. 

Despite periods of relative stability, the family continued to move frequently, adding to the instability of Dickens's childhood. A particularly traumatic event occurred when two days after his twelfth birthday, on February 9, 1824, he was forced to work in a grueling job at a shoe polish factory while his father was imprisoned for debt. This experience, which Dickens later vividly depicted in David Copperfield, profoundly affected him, leaving a lasting emotional scar.

During the time his father was imprisoned in the Marshalsea Prison for debt. Charles lived in lodgings in Camden while his family, like the fictional Dorrit family in Little Dorrit, resided in the prison. This harrowing experience haunted Dickens throughout his life, which he called “the secret agony of my soul."

While his early years were undeniably challenging, Dickens also experienced moments of joy. He spent much of his childhood outdoors, developing a love for reading and a fascination with the picaresque novels of Smollett and Fielding. These early experiences, coupled with his remarkable memory, deeply influenced his writing, providing him with a rich source of material and vivid imagery for his literary creations.

EDUCATION Dickens's formal education ended abruptly at the age of ten. However, he was a voracious reader, and his education continued through independent study and keen observation of the world around him. When asked about his son's schooling, his father famously remarked, "Well, he may be said to have—ah—educated himself." 

After his father received a timely inheritance, Charles was able to leave the shoe-polish warehouse and attend Wellington House Academy for a short period.

He later demonstrated a remarkable command of several languages, including fluent Italian.

CAREER RECORD 1824 At the age of twelve Dickens was deemed old enough to work and began working for 10 hours a day in Warren’s boot-blacking factory located near the present Charing Cross railway station. He spent his time pasting labels on the jars of thick polish and earned six shillings a week.

1827 Dickens began work as a junior clerk for a solicitor's firm but disliked the legal profession and pursued journalism instead. 

1832 At 20, he began working as a parliamentary reporter for his uncle's publication The Mirror of Parliament and the liberal paper The Morning Chronicle. Known for his speed and accuracy, Dickens earned a reputation as one of the best shorthand reporters of his time.

1833 Dickens's literary career began in 1833 when his first story, A" Dinner at Poplar Walk," was published in the Monthly Magazine. 

1836 On March 31, 1836, the first edition of his debut novel, Pickwick Papers, was published, marking the start of his meteoric rise to literary fame.

1837-39 Editor of Bentleys Miscellany

1846 Founder and editor of Liberal newspaper Daily News. EHe put his father on the staff to preside over the dispatches.

1850-59 Started the weekly periodical Household Words

1858 Dickens  begun the lucrative practice of reading publicly from his own work on April 29, 1858. 

APPEARANCE The iconic image of Dickens that most people associate with him today emerged in his later years. He grew a beard, which gradually turned grizzled and unkempt as his hair began to thin. His eyes, though still expressive, lost some of their earlier brilliance, and lines appeared across his brow and diagonal furrows on his cheeks, making him appear older than his actual age.

Throughout his life, Dickens was known for his slender physique, standing at about six feet one inch tall. He possessed bright, round, twinkling eyes, often compared to birds' eyes. He maintained his physical fitness by taking cold showers and enjoying long walks, frequently covering distances of twelve to twenty miles a day.

Charles Dickens had sharp, expressive features with piercing eyes, a high forehead, and a neatly trimmed beard in his later years.

Portrait by Jeremiah Gurney, c. 1867–1868

FASHION In his youth and early adulthood, Dickens was known for his youthful exuberance, sporting long locks of hair and dressing with a flamboyant flair, favoring bright colors and gaudy patterns. He was a clean-shaven man with a vibrant personality and an ambitious twinkle in his eye.

As he entered middle age, Dickens's appearance became more refined. He favored light-colored hair, donned stylish attire with undeniable boots and stiff white cravats, and carefully maintained trimmed whiskers. His keen and lustrous eyes continued to sparkle with intelligence.

Dickens was known for his dandyish style. On his 1867 reading tour in the United States, he wore a bright black velvet coat adorned with a large red flower in his buttonhole.

CHARACTER Charles Dickens was a complex and multifaceted individual. He was known for his volatile temperament, gregarious nature, and strong ego. His life was characterized by a frenetic energy, as he pursued his literary and social endeavors with unwavering intensity.

Queen Victoria, in her personal journal, offered a more nuanced perspective on Dickens. She described him as possessing "a large, loving mind and the strongest sympathy with the poorer classes," acknowledging his compassion and concern for the less fortunate.

Dickens had a remarkable memory, a skill honed during his time as a reporter. He could mimic accents, repeat conversations verbatim, and recall minute details, a talent that greatly enriched his storytelling.

SPEAKING VOICE Dickens was an extraordinary public speaker with a commanding presence. On December 2, 1867, during his second U.S. tour, he gave his first public reading at Tremont Temple in Boston. His recitation of A Christmas Carol captivated the audience, who listened in awe as he delivered the novella entirely from memory.

Dickens gave his last public reading in the UK on March 15, 1870. This event took place at St. James's Hall in London. The reading was part of his "Farewell Tour," which he undertook to say goodbye to his British audience. Dickens' health was declining at the time, and afterwards he focused on his writing and personal life before dying a few months later.

"Charles Dickens as he appears when reading." From Harper's Weekly, December 1867 Wikipedia 

SENSE OF HUMOUR Charles Dickens had a quirky and exuberant sense of humor, as illustrated by his courtship antics. While courting Catherine Hogarth, he once leapt through her family’s French windows wearing a sailor suit, performed a jig while playing the hornpipe, then exited and re-entered the room as if nothing unusual had happened. 

His wit extended to his editorial work as well—when a young poet submitted a piece titled "Orient Pearls at Random Strung," Dickens returned it with the comment, “Too much string.”

RELATIONSHIPS t the age of 17, Charles Dickens fell deeply in love with Maria Beadnell, the small, slim, and pretty daughter of a London banker. For four years, he pursued her with great determination, driven by a desire to better himself. However, after a trip to Paris, Maria cooled toward him, dismissing him as a mere “boy.” Dickens was heartbroken and carried the wound of her rejection for years. Later in life, their paths crossed again, inspiring the comic portrayal of Flora Casby in Little Dorrit.

Dickens married Catherine Hogarth on April 2, 1836. Catherine was the daughter of George Hogarth, co-editor of the Evening Chronicle. Their marriage took place at St. Luke’s Church, Chelsea, just two days after the first monthly installment of Pickwick Papers was published. Catherine, described as a quiet, sensitive, and pretty woman with a “fresh complexion” and a “red rosebud mouth,” bore him ten children.

Catherine Dickens c. 1847 by Daniel Maclise

Tragically, their infant daughter Dora died suddenly in 1852 from convulsions, a devastating loss for the family.

Though their marriage began happily, it became increasingly strained over the years. Catherine struggled under the pressure of managing their large household and living with a world-famous novelist known for his boundless energy. Dickens, dissatisfied, began to drift emotionally. By 1855, he reconnected with Maria Beadnell, only to find that the romantic ideal he had held onto for decades no longer matched reality.

In 1858, Dickens and Catherine formally separated. Divorce was almost unthinkable in Victorian England, especially for someone as prominent as Dickens. He printed announcements in The Times and Household Words denying the involvement of any third party, though rumors persisted of a romantic connection to Catherine’s younger sister, Georgina Hogarth, who had moved in to assist with the household. Dickens retained Georgina as housekeeper after the separation, while Catherine lived separately, supported by him until her death.

Around the time of his separation, Dickens became involved with actress Ellen “Nelly” Ternan, a relationship he went to great lengths to keep secret. He arranged for her to live in a series of houses on London’s outskirts and fitted visits to her around his busy schedule. Biographer Claire Tomalin later suggested that Dickens may have been with Nelly at her home in Peckham when he suffered the stroke that led to his death.

MONEY AND FAME In the early 1830s, Charles Dickens began submitting articles to magazines under the pseudonym "Boz." These articles gained popularity, allowing him to pay off his family’s debts and earn £150 for copyright. His big break came with The Pickwick Papers, which solidified his fame. Initially, sales were slow, but the introduction of the character Sam Weller turned it into a sensation. Dickens earned 14 guineas for each monthly installment, and his serials typically brought in between £250 and £600, with magazines selling up to 40,000 copies per edition.

Although his novels brought him significant income, Dickens earned more money during his lifetime from his public lectures. During his 1867 U.S. reading tour, Americans were so enamored with him that he earned a staggering $200,000 (£19,000). For comparison, he made approximately £7,000 from the serialization of Oliver Twist.

While A Christmas Carol is one of his most enduring works today, The Cricket on the Hearth was far more popular during the 19th century, selling twice as many copies until the turn of the century. Despite the initial success of A Christmas Carol, Dickens only earned £130 from it due to the extravagant production costs of its gilt-edged pages and cloth binding.

"Marley's Ghost", original illustration by John Leech from the 1843 edition

Between 1855 and 1857, Little Dorrit was serialized monthly, earning Dickens nearly £12,000—more than any of his other novels. 

Oddly, Dickens never received an official title during his lifetime, and his critical reputation in his era was mixed. In an 1890s poll, readers were asked to choose between Dickens, William Makepeace Thackeray, and Edward Bulwer-Lytton as the greatest author. Surprisingly, Dickens came in last, with Bulwer-Lytton receiving the most votes.

When Dickens passed away, he left behind a fortune of approximately £93,000, a testament to his immense productivity and widespread popularity despite the ups and downs of his literary career.

FOOD AND DRINK Dickens was a devoted foodie, partial to “lamb chops breaded with plenty of ketchup.” His wife, Catherine, was known for her lavish cooking, which complemented his love of good food.

WRITING CAREER Charles Dickens, known for his rapid and spontaneous writing style, was a unique literary figure who approached his craft with remarkable dedication and peculiar habits. He wrote while facing north, believing this aligned him with the Earth's magnetic poles, and could famously bring mundane topics, like a vacuum manual, to life with his vivid imagination. 

Over his career, Dickens wrote 28 books, over 200 essays, and countless short stories, all while adhering to a strict writing schedule of just five hours a day.  His works often satirized and addressed Victorian societal issues, with his earlier novels appearing in serial form over 19 monthly parts, priced at a shilling each, with the last being a double issue.

When crafting his novels, Dickens would act out his characters' speeches in front of a mirror, gesticulating and vocalizing to perfect their voices. His first published collection, Sketches by Boz, was a series of magazine articles from the early 1830s. "Boz" was a childhood nickname of his youngest brother, which Dickens adopted as his pseudonym for these sketches. Here are some of his major works.

1. The Pickwick Papers Initially titled The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club, this work was a blend of stories about the club's members. Published as a monthly serial between April 1836 and November 1837, Dickens was the third choice to write it but eagerly accepted the role, calling the opportunity "too tempting to resist." The Pickwick Papers marked the first collaboration between author and illustrator, with "Phiz" (Hablot K. Browne) creating iconic comic illustrations. Although initially slow in sales, they surged from 400 copies for the first installment to 40,000 for the 15th. The character Sam Weller, with his exaggerated dialect, played a key role in boosting its popularity.

2. The Old Curiosity Shop Serialized as well, this novel famously led readers to beg Dickens to spare "Poor Nelly." The suspense was so intense that when the ship carrying the final installment docked in New York, a crowd of 6,000 gathered, crying, "Does Little Nell die?" Her death evoked profound sadness worldwide, though Oscar Wilde quipped, "One must have a heart of stone to read the death of Little Nell without laughing."

3. A Christmas Carol Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol in six weeks, fueled by excitement and long walks through London to refine the story. Struggling with debt at the time, he poured his energy into this tale of redemption. Before settling on "Tiny Tim," Dickens considered names like "Little Larry" and "Small Sam." 

Despite selling 6,000 copies in the first five days, the costly gilt pages and cloth cover meant Dickens only earned £130. Over the next two decades, he continued writing Christmas-themed stories annually. The novella remains the most frequently adapted book in Hollywood, with versions featuring characters like Mickey Mouse.

Charles Dickens in 1842, the year before the publication of A Christmas Carol

4. Hard Times This novel, based on the industrial town of Preston, Lancashire, critiques utilitarianism and political economy through exaggerated characters like Mr. Gradgrind and Mr. Bounderby. Initially unpopular and deemed "too socialist," it has since become a classic and was at one time the second best-selling Penguin Classic.

5. Nicholas Nickleby Written at the Kings Head Inn in Barnard Castle, Co. Durham, this novel exposed the cruel private schools of the time, leading to the closure of many such establishments. The phrase “All is gas and gaiters” became widely associated with it.

6. Bleak House In Bleak House, Dickens portrayed symptoms of dyslexia through the character of Mr. Krook, long before the condition was formally recognized. The novel also introduced the word "boredom" into the English lexicon.

7. Oliver Twist This novel popularized the genre of "social problem fiction." The Artful Dodger was based on a young pickpocket Dickens observed at a trial, and Fagin, the villain, shared a name with Dickens' childhood friend, Bob Fagin. The infamous "Please, sir, I want some more" scene became emblematic of Victorian poverty and reform.

8. David Copperfield This autobiographical novel, Dickens’ favorite, was almost titled Mags Diversions. Many characters were based on real-life figures, such as Dickens’ father inspiring Mr. Micawber and Mary Strong, a resident of Broadstairs, Kent, where Dickens spent many summers, modeling Aunt Betsy.

9. Martin Chuzzlewit Written after Dickens visited America, this novel featured unflattering depictions of Americans, sparking outrage. Some characters were even publicly burned in New York. Despite these controversies, it introduced phrases like “Charity begins at home.”

10. A Tale of Two Cities With its iconic opening and closing lines, this novel is one of Dickens’ most quoted works.

11. Great Expectations Based on Gads Hill in Rochester, this novel initially had a bleak ending but was revised for a more optimistic resolution to appeal to readers’ tastes. Its themes of ambition and regret remain poignant.

While beloved, Dickens was criticized for excessive sentimentality. Anthony Trollope nicknamed him “Mr. Popular Sentiment” in The Warden. Some of his most sorrowful scenes, like Little Nell's death, are both admired and parodied for their emotional weight.

MUSIC AND ARTS He spent his teenage evenings at Theatre. He hoped to become an actor. Always keen on theatre and first piece of writing was a play. 

In the early 1830s Dickens was toying with the idea of an acting career, and he remained fascinated by the theatre throughout his life, often directing and acting in shows to raise money for charitable causes and friends in distress.

Dickens continued to organise and appear in amateur theatricals, and in 1857 he went to Manchester to perform in The Frozen Deep by Wilkie Collins, where he met the young actress, Ellen Ternan.

Dickens was very much into Punch and Judy shows. He mentions them in four novels. The Old Curiosity Shop. Dombey & Son. Oliver Twist and Little Dorritt. 

Sometimes in his Mutual Friends reading tours Dickens would work himself into such a frenzy he would faint. He read extracts from his books and acted the scenes as he read. He read with great force and animation and held audiences spellbound.

Charles Dickens had a complex relationship with music throughout his life. Though he struggled to master any instrument, he developed a deep appreciation for its power and incorporated it extensively into his literary works. As a child, Dickens took piano lessons, but his teacher soon gave up in despair. Later attempts at learning the violin and the accordion during his first transatlantic voyage proved equally unsuccessful.

Despite his limited instrumental skills, Dickens cultivated a keen appreciation for music. He admired the works of Mendelssohn, Chopin, and Mozart, and was deeply moved by Gounod's opera Faust. He also enjoyed traditional songs, Irish melodies, and national airs.

Dickens frequently incorporated musical references into his novels. His works are filled with ballads and traditional songs, and he often used music to develop characters and enhance the atmosphere of his scenes, as exemplified by Mr. Morfin, the amateur cellist in Dombey and Son. He even wrote lyrics for an operetta titled The Village Coquettes, for which John Hullah composed the music.

LITERATURE A passionate bibliophile, Dickens cherished literary classics. The Vicar of Wakefield by Oliver Goldsmith was a particular favorite. He was rarely seen without a pocket edition of Shakespeare, much of which he knew by heart. He also admired 18th-century novelists like Henry Fielding (he was first inspired to write by Fielding's Tom Jones) and Tobias Smollett, whose works undoubtedly influenced his own writing style.

Dickens penned approximately 30,000 letters during his lifetime.

Dickens had a whimsical touch to his home decor. At Gad's Hill, his estate, he cleverly disguised some woodwork with a collection of "bookshop" shelves filled with fictional titles, a testament to his playful spirit.

With 247 contributions to the English language, Dickens’s literary influence is unparalleled. He coined terms like “doormat” (Great Expectations), “clap eyes on” (David Copperfield), and “butterfingers” (The Pickwick Papers).

NATURE Dickens drew inspiration from nature and frequently walked up to 20 miles to think out his plots.

PETS Dickens adored animals. His white cat, Williamina, famously snuffed out candles with her paw and became a mother to kittens Dickens kept in his study. After Williamina’s kitten, “The Master’s Cat,” died, Dickens turned its paw into a letter opener. 

His raven, Grip, was another cherished pet. This intelligent bird, hatched around 1839, became a beloved member of the Dickens household at 1 Devonshire Terrace in Marylebone, London. Grip possessed a surprisingly extensive vocabulary and was particularly fond of the phrase "Halloa old girl."

However, Grip's intelligence was often accompanied by mischievous behavior. She delighted in burying coins, cheese, and other objects in the garden and had a penchant for biting people, including the coachman and the Dickens children. The family dog was no match for Grip's playful aggression, often having its dinner stolen. Despite these antics, Grip was treated like a cherished member of the family, enjoying the freedom to roam the house much like a cat or dog.

Tragically, Grip's life was cut short in 1841 when she ingested white lead paint left by painters in the stable. Despite veterinary care, she succumbed to illness on March 12th. In a poignant tribute, Dickens had Grip stuffed and mounted, preserving the memory of his beloved pet.

A visiting card depicting Grip, the raven of Charles Dickens.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS While Dickens was not a sportsman, he enjoyed barefoot races, beach cricket, and rounders with his children and neighbors.

He maintained his physical fitness by taking cold showers and enjoying long walks, frequently covering distances of twelve to twenty miles a day.

"If I were on turf and had a horse to enter the Derby I would call that horse Fortnum and Mason convinced that with that name he would beat the field." Charles Dickens

SCIENCE AND MATHS Dickens didn’t particularly engage in science or mathematics, but his interest in human psychology and societal structures shaped his novels and social advocacy.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Charles Dickens had complex and contradictory religious views. He once stated he “hated Catholicism, despised Non-conformists,” and was “disgusted by the established church.” He likened listening to a Baptist sermon to being “steamed like a potato.” Despite this, his work often reflected a deep moral and spiritual concern for the oppressed and impoverished. 

Dickens was also deeply interested in the supernatural. He belonged to The Ghost Club, a group that explored paranormal phenomena, and was a firm believer in mesmerism, considering himself a kind of healer capable of transferring healing energy to others.

POLITICS Dickens used his platform to highlight social injustices and advocate for the welfare of the underprivileged. In 1847, he partnered with Angela Burdett-Coutts to open Urania Cottage, a rehabilitation center for London prostitutes, where he personally interviewed new admissions and documented their progress. His novels, such as Oliver Twist and Hard Times, also served as searing critiques of societal inequalities. In Hard Times, he satirized political economists through characters like Mr. Bounderby, the self-made man, and Mr. Gradgrind, the strict Utilitarian schoolmaster.

SCANDAL When aged 22 and a reporter, Dickens wrote "The Bloomsbury Christening, " a story for a monthly magazine about mean Nicodemus Dumps, a predecessor of Scrooge. A few months later Dickens discovered the story had been adopted for the stage and was running at the Adelphi without permission or credit. 

By the late 1860s, Dickens’s personal life became strained due to his secret relationship with actress Ellen Ternan. To maintain their affair’s secrecy, he reportedly established her in homes on London’s outskirts. 

MILITARY RECORD Charles Dickens had no formal military service. However, his vivid imagination and powerful narratives often highlighted the societal impacts of war, poverty, and industrialization, with a sharp focus on their effects on ordinary people.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Dickens suffered from asthma throughout his life and found some relief through opium, a common remedy of his time. His experience inspired the depiction of Mr. Omer, an asthmatic character in David Copperfield. To combat insomnia, Dickens placed his bed with its head pointing north, believing this alignment allowed magnetic fields to flow through his body. When his system failed, he often embarked on long nocturnal walks, during which he drew inspiration for his novels.

In 1864 Dickens' health was beginning to show signs of severe strain and he collapsed while giving a public reading of his work. Doctors advised him that he must rest but, in defiance of this advice, he embarked on a gruelling schedule of readings, including a tour of America in 1867-1868

HOMES Charles Dickens's early years were marked by frequent moves. His family relocated to Portsea in 1812, then to London in 1814, and later, in 1817 to 2 (now 11) Ordnance Terrace, Chatham. Afterward, the family faced financial instability, leading to frequent moves as his father struggled with debt. In 1823, they returned to London, settling in Camden Town.

2 Ordnance Terrace, Chatham, Dickens's home 1817 – May 1821

When Dickens married Catherine Hogarth, they moved into rooms at Furnival’s Inn, Holborn. Between 1837 and 1839, they lived at 48 Doughty Street near Russell Square in Clerkenwell. This house, now known as the Charles Dickens Museum, is his only surviving London home. Here, he wrote The Pickwick Papers, Oliver Twist, and Nicholas Nickleby at a small table in the first-floor living room, often chatting with visitors while working.

In 1839, Dickens moved to a larger home at Devonshire Terrace, located at the northern end of Marylebone High Street, where he lived until 1851. He then spent three months at 3 Albion Villa in Folkestone, where much of Little Dorritt was written. 

Later that year, he relocated to Tavistock Square, Bloomsbury. At Tavistock House, he installed a hidden door in his study disguised as part of a wall of books, with titles like The Unpowder Magazine, Hansard’s Guide to Refreshing Sleep, and Cats’ Lives (nine volumes). Tavistock House became his final London residence.

Dickens lived at Elm Lodge in Petersham, Surrey for a time, before settling at Gad’s Hill Place near Rochester in 1856. This home, which he had admired as a boy, remained his residence until his death. Gad’s Hill Place, now a school, was later famously occupied by Rod Hull and his puppet, Emu.

TRAVEL Charles Dickens had a deep appreciation for seaside resorts, frequently visiting Broadstairs and Boulogne. He spent many summers at Fort House in Broadstairs, which was later renamed Bleak House. Another favorite destination was Rockingham Castle in Northamptonshire, which inspired Chesney Wold in Bleak House. Additionally, Dickens rented a house in Bonchurch on the Isle of Wight, calling it “the prettiest place I ever saw in my life at home or abroad.”

In January 1842, Dickens traveled to America with his wife, leaving their four children at home. Eager to experience American society and freedom firsthand, he landed in Boston, where his visit thrilled the city’s elite. Dickens toured extensively across the eastern United States, ventured as far west as Illinois, and spent two weeks in Montreal.

By 1844, burdened with debt, Dickens decided to move his family abroad in hopes of finding cheaper living conditions than London. The family traveled through Paris and Marseille to Geneva before returning to England in 1846.

On June 9, 1865, Dickens was involved in the infamous Staplehurst train crash. While traveling on the tidal express from Folkestone to London with Ellen Ternan, his mistress, and her mother, the train derailed due to loosened rails on a viaduct. The first six carriages plunged into the river below, while Dickens’ first-class carriage teetered precariously on the bridge. Unharmed, Dickens managed to rescue Ellen, her mother, and other passengers from the wreckage. He then descended to the riverbank, brandy flask in hand, to assist the injured and dying.

Despite his heroism, the experience left Dickens with a profound fear of train travel, often making him physically ill. In the aftermath, he discreetly avoided the official inquiry to prevent a scandal over his relationship with Ellen. Notably, before leaving the scene, Dickens retrieved the unfinished manuscript of Our Mutual Friend from his carriage. He later added a postscript to the novel referencing the accident.

DEATH Dickens suffered a stroke on June 8, 1870, at his Gad’s Hill home after working on The Mystery of Edwin Drood. He never regained consciousness and passed away the following day. Despite his wish to be buried in Rochester Cathedral, he was interred in Westminster Abbey’s Poets’ Corner.

Speculation remains about the circumstances of his stroke, with some suggesting it occurred at Ellen Ternan’s home and that she had him transported back to Gad’s Hill to avoid scandal.

Dickens’s literary genius and his compassion for the downtrodden earned him an enduring place in history. The inscription on his tomb aptly reads: “He was a sympathiser to the poor, the suffering, and the oppressed; and by his death, one of England’s greatest writers is lost to the world.”

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Charles Dickens has been a prominent figure in media and popular culture for over a century, with his works and life inspiring numerous adaptations, portrayals, and interpretations across various forms of media:

1. Film Adaptations: Dickens’ novels have been extensively adapted into films since the early days of cinema:

A Christmas Carol: One of the most frequently adapted stories in film history, with versions ranging from the classic 1938 film to modern reinterpretations like The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) and Scrooged (1988).

Oliver Twist: Adapted into notable films, including David Lean’s 1948 version and Roman Polanski’s 2005 adaptation.

Great Expectations: Another favorite for filmmakers, with adaptations by David Lean (1946) and Alfonso Cuarón (1998), among others.

2. Television: Dickens’ works have been staples of British and international television:

BBC adaptations have brought serialized versions of David Copperfield, Little Dorrit, and Our Mutual Friend to life.

Bleak House: Adapted as a BBC miniseries in 1985 and again in 2005, earning critical acclaim for its innovative style.

Modernized reimaginings, such as Dickensian (2015–2016), creatively combined characters from his novels into one interconnected story.

A Christmas Carol continues to appear as holiday specials, including a darker, psychological BBC adaptation in 2019 starring Guy Pearce.

3. Dickens as a Character: Dickens has been portrayed in films like The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017), which dramatizes the creation of A Christmas Carol and explores his creative process, with Dan Stevens playing Dickens.

In Dickens of London (1976), a TV miniseries, Roy Dotrice played Dickens, exploring his life and family.

He appears as a character in Doctor Who (2005), portrayed by Simon Callow, who also famously performed one-man shows based on Dickens' readings.

4. Documentary Features: Documentaries about Dickens' life and legacy include Dickens on Film (2012) and Charles Dickens: A Tale of Ambition and Genius (2017), exploring his works and their impact on literature and society.

5. Video Games: Dickens himself appears as a character in Assassin's Creed Syndicate (2015), where players can help him investigate supernatural mysteries in Victorian London.

6. The only known statue of Charles Dickens resides in Philadelphia’s Clark Park, despite his will forbidding statues of any kind. The monument depicts Dickens with Little Nell.

ACHIEVEMENTS One of the most influential novelists in English literature.

His works continue to be widely read and enjoyed today.

His social commentary and critiques of Victorian society remain relevant.

Sources The Independent, Encarta Encyclopedia, Nigel Rees' Dictionary of Phrase & Fable, 100 Great Modern Lives, Faber Book of Anecdotes, Food For Thought