Celebrity History
Thoundands of years ago, one of the best ways to become famous was through a title, such as a monarch, or to be a warrior whose deeds had a direct impact on the lives of their fellow countrymen.
But this wasn't the only way yo be famous or have your name splashed across history books. Some of the first ever celebrities were winners in the ancient Olympic Games. When the winners returned home, part of the city wall was demolished so they didn't have to use gates like "ordinary mortals". They also won the right to life-long free meals and famous poets would write them hymms of praise, which would be performed in their honour.
"Ancient Rome advertised its most famous, powerful inhabitants by imprinting their faces onto coins and many being immortalised as scultures. In 44BC, Julius Caesar was the first Roman to appear on a coin in his own lifetime, in a departure from the usual coin designs which depicted his achievements and claims he was descended from Venus."
" Gladiators, whose bloodthirsty contests drew thousands of spectators, also gained fame during the Roman era, despite their notorious reputation as outlaws. News of their battles spread by word of mouth, and boys idolised them, often taking fighting lessons at gladiator scholls, whilst women were known to have affairs with the muscle- bound fighters.
In 1160, another now- famous figure, Thomas Becket, Thomas was archdeacon of Canterbury and chancellor of king Henry. Becktet became a martyr after being murdered by four knights, thought to be connected with the king.After he died he got a reputation as " father of the poor and the comforter of the sorrowful" which was spread by the church. Becket's story endured through to the modern day and the cathedral draws thousands draws thousands of fascinated visitors to spot where he was murdered.
