- From strange pregnancies to lightening strikes, these are some bizarre stories.
These bizarre people in history were pretty strange. Do you think you know all the people and stories on this list?
Joshua Norton of San Francisco, 19th Century
After losing his fortune, Joshua Norton declared himself “Emperor of the United States” in 1859. He later expanded his imaginary empire to include Mexico. San Franciscans embraced the eccentric figure, accepted his self-issued money and treated him with affection.
Mary Toft of England, 1726
Mary Toft convinced several doctors that she had given birth to rabbits. Physicians initially took her claims seriously, and
the story reached the attention of King George I’s court. Eventually, investigators discovered that Toft had been inserting animal parts into herself. She confessed to the deception. Do you think this is one of the most bizarre people in history?
Emperor Caligula of Rome, 1st Century
Caligula’s reign became associated with extravagant behavior and political cruelty. Ancient sources claim he planned to make his favorite horse, Incitatus, a consul. Historians debate how literally this should be taken; it may have been a deliberate insult to Rome’s political establishment rather than a serious appointment.
The Man Who Survived the Most Lightning
Strikes Roy Sullivan of America
American park ranger Roy Sullivan was struck by lightning seven times during his lifetime. He survived every documented strike, although he suffered burns and other injuries. Guinness World Records recognizes him for the record. Do you think this is one of the most bizarre people in history?
Grigori Rasputin of Russia, 1869–1916
Rasputin became influential around the Russian imperial family because Empress Alexandra believed he could help her son Alexei, who suffered from hemophilia. His reputation for mystical powers, political influence and sexual scandal made him one of late imperial Russia’s most controversial figures.
Emperor Norton and His Currency
Norton issued his own imperial bonds and currency despite possessing no government authority. Some San Francisco businesses reportedly accepted his notes as souvenirs or in good humor. His eccentricity became part of the city’s culture.
Violet Jessop a Maritime Survivor
Violet Jessop worked aboard several major ocean liners and survived the sinking of the Olympic’s sister ships Titanic and Britannic, as well as the collision involving Olympic. Her extraordinary survival record earned her the nickname “Miss Unsinkable.” Do you think this is one of the most bizarre people in history?
Charles Domery an Insatiable Eater
A Polish soldier serving in the French Revolutionary era became famous for reportedly consuming enormous quantities of food. Medical observers described his extreme appetite and unusual eating habits. His story survives primarily through historical medical accounts.
Joseph Merrick “The Elephant Man” of London
Merrick became famous in Victorian London because of severe physical abnormalities. He later lived at the London Hospital under the care of surgeon Frederick Treves. Modern diagnoses have included Proteus syndrome, although the exact medical condition remains debated. Do you think this is one of the most bizarre people in history?
Nero’s Claimed Eccentricities
Roman emperor Nero developed a reputation for performing publicly as a musician and actor—activities considered inappropriate for a Roman emperor. His participation in competitions and artistic performances contributed to his bizarre public image.
Did any of these bizarre people in history surprise you? Tell us if anyone did in the comments!