Historical Figures

Too fast to live, too young to die, he was a rebel without a cause. James Byron Dean was an American actor in the 1950’s and is a cultural icon. He is the symbol of teenage disillusionment and social estrangement. Dean was the first actor to receive a posthumous Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and remains the only actor to have had two posthumous acting nominations. His remarkable life and tragic death transformed him into a timeless legend.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, more commonly known as ‘Mahatma’, was the preeminent leader of India’s independence movement in British-ruled India. Gandhi organized boycotts against British institutions, led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. His teachings are used today and have inspired the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.

His face is on the $10 bill, he was one of the most influential contributors to the United States Constitution, he created the United States financial system, he was the first Secretary of the Treasury and he is currently the subject of the biggest Broadway Musical. Alexander Hamilton’s legacy is stronger today than ever before. Sponsor: https://www.soylent.com/lives

Amelia Earhart’s disappearance on July 2, 1937 is one of the great mysteries of the 20th century. A number of theories about her death have emerged in the last 79 years. We examine her remarkable life as the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic, to being a successful author and a feminist icon and finally what really happened on July 2, 1937.

Kurt Cobain was one of the greatest figures in music history and the voice of a generation. Experience his rise to fame and struggles that led to his tragic death. This episode is dedicated to the two loves of his life, Courtney Love and Frances Cobain and to all of the millions of fans world-wide.

Commonly regarded as the most famous magician who has ever lived, Harry Houdini’s grand escape acts and illusions made him into a world icon. We take you on a journey through his life, the secrets behind his tricks, the woman he loved, his struggles and triumphs and how he really died... or did he?

Grigori Rasputin, called the Mad Monk, was one of history’s most interesting figures. A Russian peasant turned mythical faith healer gained influence in Russia by curing the Tsar’s son of hemophilia. His death helped ignite the Russian Revolution. Did he have supernatural powers? Poison, beating and gunshots couldn’t kill him. We examine his life, his rise to power and his ultimate tragic death.

Remarkable Lives, Tragic Deaths examines the lives and deaths of prominent people who changed history and influenced pop culture. Here is a sneak preview of what to expect. The first episode premieres Wednesday August 3rd and new episodes are released every Wednesday.