35 Surprising Facts about Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein (1879-1955) is a household name today, celebrated as one of the greatest scientists in history, whose discoveries continue to shape our understanding of the universe. However, there is much more to Einstein than meets the eye. Get ready to uncover 35 fascinating facts about this legendary figure, including some quirky and surprising details about his personality and life.

1. Walking and Thinking

Albert Einstein was known to walk around while thinking, often leaving his students or colleagues perplexed. This habit helped him synthesize ideas and foster new insights.

2. His Unusual Birth

Einstein was born with a oddly-shaped head, with an unusually large back head. Within a few weeks, the shape returned to normal.

3. Delayed Speech

Einstein faced significant speech difficulties and did not speak until he was 4 years old. He communicated via written and mathematical symbols at an early age, which was seen as remarkable by his parents.

4. Violinist

In his free time, Einstein played the violin and was an avid fan of classical music, often quieting his thoughts through music. He even named his violin 'Lina.'

5. Renunciation of Citizenship

Einstein renounced his German citizenship at the age of 17 to avoid serving in the military. Soon after, he obtained Swiss citizenship.

6. A Love for Vienna

During his time at Swiss Federal Polytechnic School, Einstein became an admirer of Vienna, his frequent trips to recordings the city compelled him to move there permanently.

7. Failing Exams

During his entrance exam, Einstein failed most of the subjects except for mathematics and physics. He was accepted to the school through an exception.

8. Refusing to Wear Socks

Einstein reportedly refused to wear socks, believing they were a hasty solution to a problem that shoes should address directly. He often said, "Even on the most solemn occasions, I got away without wearing socks and hid that lack of civilization in high boots."

9. The 'Miracle Year' (1905)

1905 is known as the 'Miracle Year' as Einstein published four groundbreaking papers and submitted his doctoral dissertation that same year. This was a pivotal period in his career and the scientific community.

10. Einstein's Personal Life

One of his first rules for his first wife, Mileva Maric, included stopping talking when he asked her to, serving him three meals a day, and abstaining from physical intimacy.

11. Personal Interests and Passions

Einstein loved sailing and playing violin. He even had a special rule for his wife regarding the violin! Despite his many achievements, he was known for his hobbies and simple daily routines.

12. Einstein’s Inventions

Einstein is often praised for his theoretical contributions, but he also filed for a patent for a refrigerator that used alcohol gas in 1926, although it was never produced.

13. Controversial Theories

In 1920, Einstein renounced his theory of the 'cosmological constant' after meeting with astronomer Edward Hubble. Later, this theory turned out to be a stepping stone to the study of dark energy.

14. Smoking Habits

Einstein was a heavy smoker, claiming that smoking contributed to a calm demeanor in all human affairs. He was known to be fonder of his pipes than cigars or cigarettes but never turned down an offer.

15. Renunciation of Nobel Prize?

Einstein was offered the presidency of Israel in 1952 but declined. He was also known to make some strange rules for his wife, such as not expecting any physical intimacy from her.

16. Brain Theft

After Einstein’s autopsy, the pathologist who took his brain reportedly stole it and kept it in a jar, denied returning it for a long time.

17. Frances and Lieserl

Einstein and his first wife, Mileva Maric, had a daughter named Lieserl, who was born in 1902 but her fate remains a mystery. Some believe she died of sickness, while others say she was given for adoption.

18. Mentality Versus Methodology

Einstein preferred visual experiments conducted in his mind over lab tests. His deep visualization helped him in formulating theories without the need for physical experiments.

19. A Personal Professor

Elsa Einstein, his second wife, carrying the last name Einstein, was actually related to Albert. They married in 1919 and together they navigated the challenges of fame.

20. Nobel Prize in 1921

Surprisingly, Einstein won the Nobel Prize for his explanation of the photoelectric effect in 1921, not for his Theory of Relativity, which was not yet fully understood by the academic community at that time.

Albert Einstein’s life and work continue to inspire and intrigue people today, challenging traditional ways of understanding the world around us. From his unique habits to his revolutionary theories, there is much to learn from this visionary scientist.