Buzz
Money has a peculiar way of encouraging eccentric behaviors. Perhaps it’s the sheer power of wealth that emboldens individuals to break free from convention. Whether it’s outlandish hygiene practices or unique culinary preferences, these famous figures have certainly made their mark. They exemplify the age-old truth that affluence and eccentricity often go hand in hand. Let’s explore some of the most eccentric habits of the wealthy throughout history.
10. Howard Hughes and His Obsessive Germaphobia
Let’s dive into the first outlandish habit. Enter the world of Howard Hughes, an aviation mogul and film producer, known for his strange and extreme behaviors.
Hughes was obsessed with cleanliness to an extraordinary extent, making most germaphobes appear nonchalant. He was known to wear cardboard shoe covers as footwear, ensuring that his feet never touched the floor. It didn’t stop there. Hughes even wrote a manual for his staff, detailing the exact procedures for handling and serving items like cans of peaches.
It’s difficult to truly comprehend what went on in Howard Hughes’s mind. However, one thing is certain: his life was filled with eccentricities that fascinated the public. His severe germophobia was just one aspect of his strange behaviors, which also included his tendency to live in seclusion and his obsessive-compulsive habits.
9. Nikola Tesla’s Fascination with Pigeons
Nikola Tesla, a genius inventor and a pioneer of electrical engineering, had an unusual bond with pigeons. He didn’t just have a fondness for these birds—he believed they communicated with him in a deeply meaningful way.
During his time in New York City, Tesla would often spend his days feeding and nurturing pigeons in local parks. However, one white pigeon held a particularly special place in his heart. Tesla even went as far as to claim that this bird was his source of inspiration. He believed it sent him messages and guided his creative process. Though most of us may not fully understand this communication with pigeons, it was undeniably central to his genius. It's odd, but when you consider the groundbreaking inventions Tesla brought to life, how can one question the mind behind it all?
8. Salvador Dalí’s Habit of Daily Power Naps
Salvador Dalí, the master of surrealism, also had his own surreal routine. When you think of artists at work, you might imagine them with brushes and canvases. But for Dalí, the key to unlocking his creativity lay in the art of napping. He was a strong believer in the power of the micro siesta. His technique was one of a kind. He would sit in an uncomfortable chair, holding a key loosely between his fingers. As he drifted into sleep, the key would slip from his hand and fall onto a plate beneath him. The sound of the clattering key would awaken him. This strange ritual became known as 'slumber with a key.'
Dalí’s unconventional nap technique allowed him to tap into the vivid imagery of his subconscious. By walking the fine line between wakefulness and sleep, he was able to access the surreal landscapes of his dreams. Once he woke up, Dalí would transform these dreamlike visions into works of art. His legendary power naps were integral to his status as one of the most influential and iconic artists in history.
7. Marlon Brando’s Ice Cubes in His Coffee
If you've watched *The Godfather* or *A Streetcar Named Desire*, you're familiar with Marlon Brando's iconic performances. However, you may not know about his unique way of enjoying a cup of morning coffee.
Instead of drinking a piping hot cup of coffee like most people, Brando preferred to throw ice cubes into his drink. But why? Brando explained that the ice cooled the coffee down quickly, allowing him to drink it without waiting. In a world where most of us blow on our steaming beverages, Brando’s method was a refreshing change. This simple, yet unusual, habit offers a glimpse into his laid-back, no-fuss approach to life.
6. Queen Elizabeth I’s Fascination with Makeup
Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland, who reigned from 1558 to 1603, was one of history's most influential rulers. However, she had a rather peculiar habit concerning her appearance.
Known for her strikingly pale complexion, the queen achieved this look through a concoction of white lead and vinegar as makeup. Yes, lead. This bizarre and hazardous mixture was not only damaging to her health but was also a reflection of the beauty trends of her time.
In Elizabethan England, pale skin was a symbol of nobility, implying that one did not have to work outside. However, using such toxic substances carried severe consequences. Prolonged use often resulted in skin damage, poisoning, or even death. Queen Elizabeth’s obsession with maintaining her pale appearance was a direct response to society’s dangerous and unhealthy beauty ideals.
5. Andy Warhol’s Fondness for Fast Food
Nearly everyone is familiar with Andy Warhol’s iconic pop art. He gained fame for his depictions of celebrities and consumer products. However, his obsession with something rather unexpected—fast food—might come as a surprise. Specifically, Warhol had a deep affection for McDonald’s.
Warhol’s daily routine often involved indulging in a McDonald’s meal. He was such a frequent visitor that he ate there nearly every day for over 20 years. In fact, he even incorporated a McDonald’s bag into one of his artworks. But what connects fast food with the world of fine art?
For Warhol, it was about embracing the ordinary objects and experiences that defined modern life. McDonald’s symbolized this idea perfectly. So the next time you enjoy a burger and fries from your favorite fast-food spot, remember—you might be sharing a culinary link with one of the greatest artists of the 20th century.
2. Charles Dickens’s Midnight Walks
We’ve all encountered a story or two from the literary genius Charles Dickens, known for masterpieces such as *A Tale of Two Cities* and *Great Expectations*. But did you know he had a rather peculiar and somewhat eerie writing ritual? Each night, in the dead of darkness, Dickens would take long, solitary walks through the winding streets of London.
These midnight walks were more than just a form of exercise for Dickens. They were integral to his creative process. He drew inspiration from the lively and mysterious streets of London after dark. The characters, stories, and ambiance of the city’s nighttime world flowed into his mind and made their way into his novels.
Dickens was known to roam the city for miles, often losing himself in its narrow alleys and busy thoroughfares. During these solitary journeys, he refined his storytelling and honed his ability to capture the essence of Victorian London’s spirit.
1. Albert Einstein’s Sockless Philosophy
Albert Einstein, the famous theoretical physicist whose name is forever linked to genius, had a surprisingly relaxed approach to his wardrobe. One of the quirks that caught attention was his refusal to wear socks.
Einstein’s reasoning for skipping socks was simple, yet unconventional. He believed they were unnecessary since his shoes already protected his feet. Additionally, he had problems with his big toes, which led to large holes in his socks. Rather than wasting time pairing socks, he preferred to focus on more important matters, like solving the mysteries of the universe.
In a world where many are consumed by appearances, Einstein’s refusal to wear socks serves as a reminder that true brilliance goes beyond the need to conform. His legacy isn’t just confined to the theory of relativity; it’s also about embracing individuality and focusing on what truly matters in life.
1. Michael Jackson’s Elephant Love
Few can match the King of Pop in both talent and eccentricity. Michael Jackson’s love for elephants stands as one of his most unusual yet endearing traits. He had a pet elephant named Gypsy, who even accompanied him on his ‘Bad’ tour, traveling alongside the pop star to various locations around the world.
This affection for elephants wasn’t a fleeting fancy for Jackson. He shared a unique bond with animals, and elephants, with their intelligence, grace, and majesty, deeply fascinated him. Gypsy was a loyal companion, and their relationship became a topic of fascination for the public. Jackson’s love for elephants is a reminder that fame and wealth can give individuals the freedom to pursue the most unusual passions. It also highlights the profound connections between humans and animals, transcending societal expectations. For Jackson, Gypsy wasn’t merely an exotic pet but a reflection of his complex character.
4. Benjamin Franklin’s Air Baths
Have you ever come across the term 'air bath'? If not, don’t feel bad – I hadn’t either. However, Benjamin Franklin, one of our nation's Founding Fathers, swore by it. Franklin was a firm believer in the invigorating power of fresh air and made it a point to engage in a daily practice he called 'air baths.'
Franklin’s air baths were straightforward yet peculiar. Each morning, he would rise early, sit unclothed in his room, and fling open the windows to let the outdoor air flood in. He believed this practice not only refreshed his body but also rejuvenated his mind.
His dedication to these air baths stemmed from his conviction in the healing properties of nature. Franklin viewed them as a means of maintaining his health and a way to energize both body and mind to start the day afresh.
While I personally prefer a hot shower to jumpstart my day, Franklin’s air bath highlights his commitment to holistic health. It also offers a rare insight into the mindset of a man unafraid to challenge conventional thinking for the sake of personal growth.
