Nobel Prize Day: Six Interesting Facts about Alfred Nobel

Annually, on December 10th, the world observes Nobel Prize Day, marking the death anniversary of Alfred Nobel. This day serves as a tribute to individuals who, like the award's founder, have made significant contributions across various fields.

Born on October 21, 1833, in Stockholm, Sweden, Alfred Nobel, a Swedish businessman, chemist, engineer, industrialist, philanthropist, and founder of the esteemed Nobel Prize, was a versatile individual. Additionally, he explored poetry as a means to gain deeper insights into our thoughts, lives, relationships, and surroundings, showcasing a multifaceted personality.

Jack of All Trades

Alfred was known for his work in humanitarian and scientific philanthropies and left a bulk of his fortune in trust to establish what is now regarded as one of the most prestigious international awards, the Nobel Prize. It is believed that he wrote his will without any legal counsel.

Establishing the Nobel Prize

Alfred not only achieved proficiency in chemistry by the age of 16 but also demonstrated fluency in several languages, including English, French, German, Swedish, and Russian.

A Polyglot 

Before his death, Nobel wrote a play called Nemesis, copies of which were given to limited publications but were later said to be destroyed by his family who thought it would undermine his legacy. He died on October 10, 1896, at his villa in San Remo, Italy.

Author of Nemesis