- Harry Houdini (1874-1926) The Great Houdini is a name that will forever define the term "escape artist."
- As the Budapest-born, American-bred performer would so often proclaim, "No prison can hold me; no hand or leg irons or steel locks can shackle me. No ropes or chains can keep me from my freedom."
- The real name of Harry Houdini was Erich Weiss
- There is no question that Houdini is the most famous magician in history. His name is synonymous with escapes; his ability to get out of seemingly impossible situations- and his knack for publicizing these events- made him a legend in his own time.
- The Houdini myth is about to be examined, and truth really is stranger than fiction!
- Houdini was born Erich Weiss on March 24, 1874. Though he claimed throughout his life that Appleton, Wisconsin was his birthplace
- He was really born in Budapest, Hungary. He was four years old when his family moved to America
- Houdini was small, standing a mere 5'5", with dark, wavy hair, dark gray eyes and a high-pitched voice
- Houdini was poorly educated. He was, however, extremely athletic and highly motivated to succeed
- According to an autobiographical pamphlet published by the magician in 1920, Houdini said that his favorite place was Hollywood, California and that his favorite song was Auld Lang Syne (the traditional New Year's Eve tune)
