Making History Come Alive Newsletter offers you Nellie Bly, born Elizabeth Cochran on May 5, 1864, in Cochran's Mills, Pennsylvania, a pioneering American journalist
One of her most notable achievements was her remarkable journey around the world in 72 days, a feat that not only captivated the public but also challenged societal norms regarding women’s roles in journalism and exploration.
Background
- Early Career: Bly began her journalism career in the late 19th century, initially writing for a Pittsburgh newspaper where she adopted the pen name "Nellie Bly." She gained fame for her investigative reporting, including a daring undercover expose on the conditions in a mental institution, which she documented in her book *Ten Days in a Mad-House*. This work brought attention to the mistreatment of patients and established her as a serious journalist.
- Inspired by Jules Verne: Bly's decision to attempt a trip around the world was inspired by Jules Verne's novel *Around the World in Eighty Days*, published in 1873. The story of Phileas Fogg's journey sparked her ambition to complete the journey in even less time, which would serve as both an adventure and a publicity stunt.
The Journey
- Preparation and Departure: In 1889, Bly proposed her idea to her editor at the New York World, Joseph Pulitzer. After securing support, she prepared for her journey by packing only what was necessary, including a small bag of essentials. On November 14, 1889, she departed from Hoboken, New Jersey, embarking on her quest to circumnavigate the globe.
- Route and Challenges: Bly's route took her through various countries and continents, including England, France, India, and Japan. She traveled by ship and train, often facing significant challenges such as delays, cultural differences, and the limitations of travel infrastructure at the time. Notably, she encountered political unrest in places like Brindisi, Italy, and had to navigate the complexities of travel as a lone woman in a male-dominated society.
- Record-Breaking Achievement: Despite these challenges, Nellie Bly completed her journey in just 72 days, 6 hours, and 11 minutes, arriving back in New Jersey on January 25, 1890. This achievement surpassed the fictional journey outlined in Verne's novel and made her an international celebrity.