Alfred Nobel
The Man Behind the Nobel Prize
Since 1901, the Nobel Prize has been honoring men and women from all corners of the globe for outstanding achievements in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and for work in peace. The foundations for the prize were laid in 1895 when Alfred Nobelwrote his last will, leaving much of his wealth to the establishmentof the Nobel Prize. But who was Alfred Nobel? Articles, photographs,a slide show and poetry written by Nobel himself are presented hereto give a glimpse of a man whose varied interests are reflected inthe prize he established. Meet Alfred Nobel - scientist, inventor,entrepreneur, author and pacifist.
Biographical Information
Alfred Nobel (1833-1896) was born in Stockholm, Sweden, on October 21, 1833. His family was descended from Olof Rudbeck, the best-known technicalgenius in Sweden in the 17th century, an era in which Sweden was agreat power in northern Europe. Nobel was fluent in several languages,and wrote poetry and drama. Nobel was also very interested in socialand peace-related issues, and held views that were considered radicalduring his time.
The Will
On November 27, 1895, Alfred Nobel signed his last will in Paris. When it was opened and read after his death, the will caused a lot of controversy both in Sweden and internationally, as Nobel had left much of his wealth for the establishment of a prize! His family opposed the establishment of the Nobel Prize, and the prize awarders he named refused to do what he had requested in his will. It was five years before the first Nobel Prize could be awarded in 1901.
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