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February 7, 1812: Birth of Charles Dickens

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February 7, 1812: Birth of Charles Dickens

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Charles John Huffam Dickens is born in Portsmouth in 1812, England, to John and Elizabeth Dickens. He is the second of eight children in a middle-class family.

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When he was 9 years old he was sent to school but 3 years later his father was sent to prison for debts so Dickens was forced to work in a blacking factory. He suffered 3 years of loneliness and hardship, this experience profoundly influences his later writings, especially 'David Copperfield' and 'Great Expectations'.

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At first he worked as a journalist. In 1833 he published sketches of Victorian life in society for newspapers under the pseudonym of Boz. Dickens publishes his first story, 'A Dinner at Poplar Walk,' in the Monthly Magazine. This marks the beginning of his literary career.

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Dickens' first novel was 'The Pickwick Papers', which was pubblished in instalments and revealed the author's humoristic and sarcastical qualities. Tells about the adventures of Pickwick Club members. Its immense popularity catapults him to literary stardom at the young age of 24.

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Dickens writes and publishes 'Oliver Twist' in monthly installments. This novel tells the story of an orphan who escapes a workhouse and embarks on a journey through the seedy underbelly of London. He encounters a cast of memorable characters, including Fagin, the Artful Dodger, and Bill Sikes as he seeks to find his place in the world.

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Dickens publishes 'A Christmas Carol', which becomes an instant classic and helps to establish many of the traditions we associate with Christmas today.

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Dickens publishes 'David Copperfield', considered his most autobiographical novel. He later called it his 'favourite child' among his works.

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Dickens publishes 'A Tale of Two Cities', set against the backdrop of the French Revolution. It becomes one of his most famous historical novels.

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Dickens publishes 'Great Expectations', a coming-of-age story that explores themes of wealth, poverty, and human nature. It is considered one of his greatest literary achievements.

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Charles Dickens passes away at the age of 58, leaving behind an unfinished novel, 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood'. He is buried in Poets' Corner at Westminster Abbey, solidifying his place among the greatest figures in English literature.