Late Bloomer Biographies

Freya Stark: Late Bloomer & Fearless Nomad, Part 2

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“People who have gone through sorrow are more sympathetic…not so much because of what they know about sorrow, but because they know more about happiness.” At the end of Part 1, Freya lay close to death after a horrific factory accident ripped away half her scalp. A young doctor performed an experimental surgery that took [...]

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Freya Stark: Late Bloomer & Fearless Nomad, Part 1

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“There can be no happiness if the things we believe in are different from the things we do.” ~Freya Stark My great-uncle Bob arrived in his 1958 Chevy Bel Air, dapper in a tweed suit and fedora. A diamond-studded elk’s tooth hung from his watch fob. He was his lodge’s Exalted Ruler. I called him [...]

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Jules Verne: From Failed Stockbroker to Father of Science Fiction

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Verne failed at writing plays and trading stocks before turning to his fabulous tales at age 35.

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Edith Wharton: Beyond Downton Abbey

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Edith Wharton published her first book at age 35, a decorating guide for the rich. A quarter century later, she became the first woman to win the Pulitzer.

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Was Ben Franklin A Late Bloomer?

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Franklin’s achievements still electrify. He was a printer, statesman, activist, inventor and diplomat. By 26, he was a best-selling author. So could he also be a late bloomer?

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Grandma Moses: The Importance of Keeping Busy

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“Painting’s not important. The important thing is keeping busy.” Words of wisdom from 101 years of living. Grandma Moses painted to the end, but didn’t start until age 76!

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Heinrich Schliemann & The Truth About Troy, Part 2

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Heinrich Schliemann–discoverer of Homer’s Troy, self-taught polyglot, self-made man. Admirable accomplishments. But did he go too far with Agamemnon’s mask?

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Heinrich Schliemann & The Truth About Troy, Part 1

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He spoke 14 languages, made millions and worshiped Homer. In his 40s, he brought Troy from fiction to reality. Was Heinrich Schliemann the real deal or a con?

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Mrs. Somerville: First Scientist

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The United Kingdom’s first recognized scientist was a self-educated Scots woman who lived during the 19th century!

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The Secret Life of Late Bloomer Sue Monk Kidd

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Sue Monk Kidd published The Secret Life Of Bees at age 53. Her spiritual journey took her from traditional Baptist wife to writer of the sacred feminine.

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Amerigo Vespucci: The Power of Recognizing The Obvious

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If you count historical success by cities and controversy, Columbus has the edge.But if you liken it in square miles, late bloomer Amerigo Vespucci wins by two continents!

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Veteran Don Mittelstaedt: Still Blooming at 92!

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He’s blind in one eye and has difficulty walking, but World War II photographer Don Mittelstaedt has embraced new technology and become a documentary film producer at age 92.

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