Harry Houdini

Born Erik Weisz, later Ehrich Weiss or Harry Weiss; Harry Houdini was an American illusionist and stunt performer, popularly known for his sensational escape acts. Throughout his career, Houdini gained fame after repeatedly escaping from police handcuffs and jails. Different wardens from all around the world gave him certificates for escaping from their prisons. After making his name in America, Harry toured Europe, where he took himself one step further by escaping from straitjackets and coffins. His magic skills helped him catch frauds that scientists and academics had never been able to do. Houdini also starred in number of movies.  He was also a keen aviator, and aimed to become the first man to fly a plane in Australia.

"What the eyes see and the ears hear, the mind believes.

I am a great admirer of mystery and magic. Look at this life - all mystery and magic.

Fire has always been and, seemingly, will always remain, the most terrible of the elements.

A common pickpocket trick is for the operator to carry a shawl or overcoat carelessly over the left arm, and to take a seat on the right side of the person they intend to rob in a streetcar or other vehicle."