Daniel Defoe

Date of Birth: September 13, 1660

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: April 24, 1731

Biography

Daniel Defoe was an English writer, journalist, and spy, best known for his novel “Robinson Crusoe.” Born in London, Defoe was the son of a butcher and later became a prosperous merchant. Despite his success in commerce, he faced financial troubles and turned to writing as a means to support himself. Defoe’s career as a writer was diverse, encompassing political pamphlets, satirical works, and novels. His most famous work, “Robinson Crusoe,” published in 1719, is considered one of the first novels in the English language and remains a classic of world literature. Defoe’s writing often reflected his personal experiences and the socio-political climate of his time, providing valuable insights into 17th and 18th-century England.

5 Interesting Facts about Daniel Defoe

1. Daniel Defoe was a prolific writer, producing over 300 works throughout his career.

2. He was imprisoned several times due to his political writings, most notably for his satirical pamphlet “The Shortest-Way with the Dissenters.”

3. Defoe is often credited with pioneering the novel as a literary form.

4. In addition to “Robinson Crusoe,” his other notable works include “Moll Flanders” and “A Journal of the Plague Year.”

5. Defoe worked as a spy for the English government, gathering intelligence and influencing public opinion through his writings.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Daniel Defoe

1. “Fear of danger is ten thousand times more terrifying than danger itself.”

2. “In trouble to be troubled, Is to have your trouble doubled.”

3. “The soul is placed in the body like a rough diamond, and must be polished, or the luster of it will never appear.”

4. “All our discontents about what we want appeared to spring from the want of thankfulness for what we have.”

5. “Vice came in always at the door of necessity, not at the door of inclination.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Defoe faced numerous financial difficulties throughout his life, and while exact figures are not available, he never achieved substantial wealth. His highest net worth is estimated to be modest, given his frequent ventures into debt.

Children

Daniel Defoe had eight children with his wife, Mary Tuffley. Their names were Mary, Daniel, Sophia, Constance, Hannah, Henrietta, Maria, and Benjamin.