George Gordon Byron

George Gordon Byron was born to Captain John Byron and Catherine Gordon in Holles Street, London. His father was a profligate and his mother was a Scottish heiress.

At the age of 10, George Gordon Byron inherited the Barony of Byron and the family estate, Newstead Abbey, following the death of his great-uncle, the 5th Baron Byron.

Byron begins his formal education at Harrow School, a prestigious public school near London, where he excels in both academics and sports despite his lameness.

Byron publishes his first collection of poetry, 'Hours of Idleness,' which receives harsh criticism. He responds with the satirical poem 'English Bards and Scotch Reviewers.'

Byron takes his seat in the House of Lords and delivers his first speech, advocating for the rights of Luddites, a group of textile workers who destroyed machinery in protest.

Byron's long narrative poem 'Childe Harold's Pilgrimage' is published, bringing him instant fame and establishing him as a leading figure in English Romantic poetry.

Byron marries Anne Isabella Milbanke, a highly educated and socially prominent woman. The marriage is tumultuous and ends in separation within a year.

Amidst scandal and personal turmoil, Byron leaves England for the Continent, never to return. He travels through Switzerland and Italy, where he continues to write prolifically.

Byron begins writing 'Don Juan,' his most ambitious and celebrated work, a satirical epic poem that reflects his experiences and the social mores of the time.

Byron travels to Greece to support the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule. He joins the revolutionary forces and provides financial and logistical support.

Byron dies of a fever in Missolonghi, Greece, where he was actively involved in the Greek War of Independence. His body is returned to England and buried at Newstead Abbey.