Jules Verne

February 8, 1828 - March 24, 1905

The French author, Jules Verne, one of the premiere pioneers of science fiction, is best known for infusing his passion for travel and exploration into his stories of adventure and Science Fiction.

Verne studied to become a lawyer, but his interest in writing was more important and frequently interfered with his studies. As a result, his father withdrew his financial support and Verne became a stockbroker to support himself and his family.

Verne had difficulty getting his writing published and was often told his writing was "too scientific" until he met the French publisher Hetzel. Hetzel assisted Verne in lightening and brightening up his writing. After this, Verne published two or more novels each year. Many consider the novels that comprise the Voyages Extraordinaires to be his most successful and well-known works of fiction. These include A Journey to the Center of the Earth, From the Earth to the Moon, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, and Around the World in Eighty Days.

Verne's later works were much darker which is believed to be related at least in part to the death of several important individuals in his life including the death of his publisher friend Hetzel. Verne also became involved in politics and was appointed "Chevalier" by the National Order of the Legion of Honor in France, the highest decoration in the country.