Alfred Nobel and the story of the Nobel Prize

Synopsis

Alfred Nobel had been called many names in his lifetime, but he was most hurt when he was referred to as a "merchant of death." The great inventor of dynamite was devastated to learn that he was regarded in such a negative manner. There were so many peaceful uses for his invention that he could not fathom why people claimed that his wealth came mainly from devising innovative ways "to mutilate and kill." Alfred did not want to be remembered like that! So in his will he ordered that his vast estate be invested and that the interest be awarded each year as prizes "to those persons who during the previous year have rendered the greatest services to mankind." This is the story of the moody and reclusive inventor and his great legacy, the Nobel Prize. Book jacket.