History is filled with enigmas and unsolved mysteries. From influential leaders to ordinary people who lived extraordinary lives, thousands of characters and events have left a mysterious imprint on our lives. Let us take a journey around the world to meet some of the most mysterious people who made their presence in the pages of history.
Eva Perón, Evita – Argentina
The first Lady of Argentina, Eva Peron or ‘Evita’ (1919–1952), was the second wife of President Juan Perón. She is notable as the spiritual leader of the nation and the most powerful woman in Latin America during her time. She is revered in Argentina as an icon of female empowerment, and her legacy is punctuated with mystery and controversy.
For example, to this day, the actual cause behind her death remains a mystery. It was reported that she died due to complications of cervical cancer in 1954 at the age of 33, but this was never officially confirmed. Furthermore, her embalmed body went missing after her death, only to be found and identified 16 years later when it was retrieved from Italy and returned to Argentina.
“I’m proud to belong to a people who is capable of giving their life for their ideals or beliefs.”
― Eva Peron
Vlad Dracula III, the Legendary Impaler – Romania
Next up is the notorious Romanian ruler, Vlad Dracula III, also known as Vlad the Impaler (1431–1476). He is infamous for his brutal methods of torture and punishment, including impalement, especially when dealing with his enemies. He also earned himself the nickname ‘Vlad the Impaler’ due to his penchant for impaling others.
Though his life and death remain shrowded in mystery, sources suggest that he was killed in battle at the age of 45. His body was never found, so to this day, there are still countless theories and rumours related to his life and death.
“The truth is that, Vlad Țepeș was a cruel man, but less cruel than many other rulers of his period, who found it legitimate to kill even innocent people or to punish those without a just trial.”
― Ion Grigorescu, The Romanian People
Jack The Ripper, the Identity of London’s feared Serial Killer – England
Arguably the most mysterious figures of all time is London’s own Jack the Ripper. An unidentified serial killer famous for targeting female prostitutes from 1888 to 1891, Jack the Ripper’s identity remains unknown to this day. His murders were fierce and gruesome and caused shockwaves in Britain and around the world.
Though the identity of Jack the Ripper has never been confirmed, detectives and investigators over the years have proposed over 100 suspects. Unfortunately, there is still no definitive answer to the mysterious identity of Jack the Ripper. It looks like this enigma will continue to triumph in the pages of history.
“I am down on whores and I shant quit ripping them till I do get buckled.”
― From a letter allegedly written by Jack the Ripper
Genghis Khan, the Greatest Conqueror – Mongolia
Perhaps one of the greatest rulers and conquerors in the world, Genghis Khan (1162–1227) united the nomadic Mongol tribes from northern Asia and led them on an unprecedented journey of conquest. During his reign, he commanded a vast empire stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Caspian Sea.
Like many other historical figures, the mystery around Genghis Khan’s death also remains unsolved. Some scholars suggest that he died of illness, while other sources state that he was assassinated by a rival tribe. Genghis Khan’s death and burial site remain enveloped in mystery, as his tomb has still not been found.
“It is not wisdom but Authority that makes a great ruler.”
― Genghis Khan
Conclusion
All these figures from history are a testament to the enigmatic nature of the past. They were real people with real lives, but their stories were buried under the weight of time and mystery. Nevertheless, their lives continue to captivate millions of people around the world centuries after their death.
Source:
- Napier, J. C. (1980). Eva Perón: The Myths of a Woman. University of Chicago Press.
- Snyder, C. (2009). The Mystery of Jack the Ripper. History Extra.