History Daily: The Genesis of the Nobel Prize

Host: Lindsey Graham | Release Date: November 27, 2024

Introduction

In this compelling episode of History Daily, host Lindsey Graham takes listeners on an intricate journey through the life of Alfred Nobel—the inventor behind dynamite and the founder of the prestigious Nobel Prizes. The episode delves deep into Nobel's scientific endeavors, personal tragedies, and the profound relationships that ultimately shaped his enduring legacy.

Alfred Nobel’s Early Endeavors and Innovation

September 3, 1864, Stockholm, Sweden

The episode opens in a Stockholm chemical plant where a 30-year-old Alfred Nobel is meticulously experimenting with nitroglycerin, a highly explosive substance. Nobel's determination to stabilize nitroglycerin marks the beginning of his quest to revolutionize the explosives industry.

"If I can make it safer, he figures, his family's business will stand to make a fortune." (00:10)

Nobel's relentless experimentation leads to the creation of dynamite, a safer and more manageable form of nitroglycerin. This invention not only transforms construction and mining industries but also inadvertently contributes to military advancements, much to Nobel's dismay.

Personal Tragedy and Professional Setbacks

Nobel's journey is marred by personal loss when his brother dies in an explosion at their family’s chemical plant. This tragedy fuels his resolve to perfect his explosive compounds and underscores the dangers inherent in his work.

"His brother's death won't be enough to make Alfred Nobel give up on his quest to produce a stable, usable form of nitroglycerin." (00:10)

Despite initial successes, Nobel faces significant challenges. The German authorities, skeptical of his safety measures, repeatedly halt the construction of his new plant in Krummel. These setbacks intensify Nobel's focus on refining his products, ultimately leading to the successful development of dynamite.

The Invention of Dynamite and Its Global Impact

By 1867, Nobel triumphs over previous failures by creating a stable nitroglycerin paste mixed with kieselguhr, resulting in dynamite. This invention garners widespread acclaim and substantial wealth for Nobel but brings unintended consequences.

"Within only a few months of its opening, several buildings are leveled in another explosion when a store of nitroglycerin detonates unexpectedly." (04:12)

Dynamite becomes a staple in construction and mining but also falls into military hands, escalating its destructive potential. Nobel grapples with the ethical implications of his invention, setting the stage for his later quest for peace.

Meeting Bertha von Suttner: A Catalyst for Change

1876, Paris, France

Nobel's personal life takes a pivotal turn when he meets Bertha von Suttner, an Austrian governess and pacifist writer. Their relationship profoundly influences Nobel's worldview, steering him away from the violence associated with his inventions.

"Bertha's novel also stirs something inside Alfred, now aged 55 and with a sense of his own mortality." (14:11)

Bertha's passionate advocacy for peace and her critique of militarism resonate deeply with Nobel. Their correspondence over two decades fosters Nobel's commitment to leveraging his fortune for global betterment rather than destruction.

Crafting the Legacy: The Establishment of the Nobel Prize

November 27, 1895, Paris, France

As Nobel's health declines, he channels his remaining years into securing a lasting legacy. He drafts his will, dedicating his fortune to establish the Nobel Prizes, honoring those who have conferred the greatest benefit to humanity.

"Alfred writes that he wants his estate to fund a series of awards for scientists, researchers, and writers whose work has most benefited humankind." (11:55)

Despite initial familial disputes over his will, courts uphold Nobel's wishes, leading to the first Nobel Prizes five years after his death. Nobel's vision materializes, recognizing luminaries like Marie Curie, Albert Einstein, and Martin Luther King Jr., and cementing his legacy as a patron of peace and progress.

"No award would have pleased Alfred Nobel more than the fifth recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, pacifist writer Bertha von Suttner." (11:55)

Conclusion

Alfred Nobel's life is a testament to the complex interplay between innovation and responsibility. His journey from a visionary scientist to the founder of the Nobel Prizes underscores a profound commitment to fostering peace and human advancement. This episode of History Daily not only chronicles Nobel's remarkable achievements but also highlights the enduring impact of his legacy on the world.

Notable Quotes

• Alfred Nobel’s Determination:

  "If I can make it safer, he figures, his family's business will stand to make a fortune." (00:10)

• Impact of Dynamite:

  "Within only a few months of its opening, several buildings are leveled in another explosion when a store of nitroglycerin detonates unexpectedly." (04:12)

• Bertha von Suttner’s Influence:

  "Bertha's novel also stirs something inside Alfred, now aged 55 and with a sense of his own mortality." (14:11)

• Nobel’s Legacy:

  "No award would have pleased Alfred Nobel more than the fifth recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, pacifist writer Bertha von Suttner." (11:55)

Timestamps

• 00:10 – Introduction to Alfred Nobel’s experiments and early challenges.
• 04:12 – Development and impact of dynamite.
• 11:55 – Meeting Bertha von Suttner and the conception of the Nobel Prize.
• 14:11 – Bertha’s influence on Nobel’s vision for peace.

This episode was written and researched by Owen Paul Nichols, with audio editing by Mohammad Shazi and sound design by Molly Bach. Special thanks to the executive producers William Simpson for Airship and Pascal Hughes for Noiser.