Charles Mackay
- Born:
- 27 March 1814, Perth, Scotland
- Died:
- 24 December 1889, London, England
- Nationality:
- Scottish
- Profession(s):
- Journalist, Author, Poet, Songwriter
Early Life and Education
- Spent part of his early life in London due to his father's military service.
- Received education at various schools in England and Belgium.
- Returned to London at the age of 18 to pursue a literary career.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his career as a journalist, contributing to various newspapers and periodicals.
- Associated with the Morning Chronicle and later became editor of the Illustrated London News.
- Gained popularity for his insightful and engaging writing on social and economic issues.
- Served as a special correspondent during the American Civil War for The Times.
- Authored numerous books on history, etymology, and social commentary.
Notable Works
- Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds (1841)
- The Thames and its Tributaries (1840)
- Legends of the Isles (1845)
- Voices from the Mountains (1847)
Legacy and Impact
Charles Mackay's legacy rests primarily on his insightful social commentary and his exploration of human behavior in his written works. His book, Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds, remains relevant today, offering valuable insights into market psychology and collective irrationality. His contributions to journalism and literature solidify his place as a significant figure in Victorian-era intellectual life.