Nellie Bly’s Journey Around the World

On November 14, 1889, pioneering journalist Nellie Bly embarked on an ambitious journey to circumnavigate the globe in less than 80 days. This endeavor was inspired by Jules Verne’s popular novel, Around the World in Eighty Days. Bly’s journey not only aimed to break the fictional record set by Verne’s protagonist, Phileas Fogg, but also to challenge societal norms and expectations of women during the late 19th century.

Background

Nellie Bly, born Elizabeth Cochran Seaman, was an investigative journalist known for her daring and immersive reporting style. She gained fame for her exposé on the conditions of asylum patients at Blackwell’s Island in New York City, where she went undercover to reveal the harsh realities faced by the mentally ill. Her work highlighted her courage and commitment to social justice.

The Journey

• Departure: Bly set sail from Hoboken, New Jersey, aboard the steamship Augusta Victoria on November 14, 1889.
• Route: Her journey took her across Europe, through the Suez Canal, to South Asia, East Asia, and across the Pacific Ocean back to the United States.
• Challenges: Throughout her travels, Bly faced numerous logistical challenges, including delays and the complexities of coordinating transportation across multiple countries.

Key Events

• Meeting Jules Verne: During her journey, Bly had the opportunity to meet Jules Verne in Amiens, France, which added a layer of personal significance to her quest.
• Public Interest: Her journey was closely followed by the public, with newspapers providing regular updates on her progress. Bly’s adventure captivated audiences and was a testament to the growing influence of mass media.

Outcome

• Completion: Nellie Bly successfully completed her journey in 72 days, 6 hours, and 11 minutes, arriving back in New York City on January 25, 1890.
• Impact: Her achievement was celebrated worldwide and solidified her status as a trailblazer in journalism. It also challenged gender stereotypes, proving that women could undertake and succeed in endeavors traditionally dominated by men.

Legacy

Nellie Bly’s journey around the world remains a significant milestone in both journalism and women’s history. Her courage and determination continue to inspire generations of journalists and adventurers. Bly’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s dreams, regardless of societal constraints.