🎵 The Powder and the Prize - Alfred Nobel, Sweden, 1833 to 1896 (History Preview)

Alfred Nobel was born in 1833 in Stockholm, Sweden. He studied chemistry and engineering in Europe, including time with chemist Théophile-Jules Pelouze in Paris. In the 1860s, he focused on stabilizing nitroglycerin. This work led to his invention of dynamite in 1867, which allowed for safer use of powerful explosives in mining, construction, and warfare.

The invention brought Nobel international fame and significant wealth. He established factories and laboratories in over 20 countries. However, Nobel was deeply troubled by the destructive potential of his invention. This concern intensified in 1888 when a French newspaper mistakenly published his obituary, titled “The merchant of death is dead.” The experience prompted Nobel to reflect on how he would be remembered.

In 1895, Alfred Nobel signed a will dedicating the majority of his fortune to the establishment of five annual prizes: for physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature, and peace. The Nobel Prizes were first awarded in 1901, five years after his death in 1896.

Nobel remained unmarried and lived a private life marked by scientific curiosity, literary interest, and moral concern over the uses of technology. His decision to fund the prizes ensured that his legacy would focus not on the weapon, but on the recognition of human achievement and peace.

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📘 Glossary
• Alfred Nobel – Swedish chemist and inventor of dynamite; founder of the Nobel Prizes.
• Dynamite – A stabilized form of nitroglycerin invented by Nobel in 1867.
• Nitroglycerin – A powerful but unstable explosive compound.
• Théophile-Jules Pelouze – French chemist under whom Nobel studied in Paris.
• “Merchant of death” – Nickname given by a premature obituary in 1888.
• Nobel Prizes – Awards established by Nobel’s will to honor achievements in science, literature, and peace.
• Stockholm – Capital of Sweden and Nobel’s birthplace.
• San Remo – Italian city where Nobel died in 1896.
• Industrial age – Historical period marked by technological and scientific advancements during the 19th century.

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