L. Frank Baum

Date of Birth: May 15, 1856

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: May 6, 1919

Biography

L. Frank Baum, born Lyman Frank Baum, was an American author best known for his children’s book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” He was born on May 15, 1856, in Chittenango, New York. Baum’s fascination with storytelling began at an early age, and he often entertained his family with his imaginative tales. He pursued various careers, including acting, newspaper editing, and store owning, before he found his true calling in writing. Baum’s first major success came in 1900 with the publication of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” which became an instant classic. The success of the book led to a series of sequels and adaptations, including the iconic 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.” Baum wrote a total of 14 novels in the Oz series, creating a rich and enduring fantasy world that has captivated generations. Baum was also a pioneer in the field of merchandising, creating a range of Oz-themed products, from toys to stage plays. Despite his success, Baum faced financial difficulties throughout his life and struggled with health issues in his later years. He passed away on May 6, 1919, in Hollywood, California.

5 Interesting Facts about L. Frank Baum

1. L. Frank Baum wrote under several pseudonyms, including Edith Van Dyne and Floyd Akers.

2. He was an early advocate for women’s suffrage and supported various progressive causes.

3. Baum’s mother-in-law, Matilda Joslyn Gage, was a prominent suffragist and greatly influenced his views on women’s rights.

4. He dabbled in various business ventures, including a failed attempt to raise chickens and a dry goods store.

5. The Wizard of Oz series has been translated into multiple languages and has never been out of print since its first publication.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from L. Frank Baum

1. “There is no place like home.”

2. “A heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others.”

3. “True courage is in facing danger when you are afraid.”

4. “Imagination has brought mankind through the dark ages to its present state of civilization.”

5. “Everything has to come to an end, sometime.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, L. Frank Baum’s net worth was estimated to be around $500,000, which would be equivalent to several million dollars today.

Children

L. Frank Baum had four children with his wife, Maud Gage Baum. Their names were Frank Joslyn Baum, Robert Stanton Baum, Harry Neal Baum, and Kenneth Gage Baum.