Harry Houdini is one of history’s best known illusionists—famous for his sensational escapes. He’s one of The Amazing Max’s favorites! Houdini began his career in magic in 1891, when he was just seventeen. Though he began with card tricks, Houdini soon made a name for himself as an escape artist. Often called Harry “Handcuff” Houdini, he would challenge police officers to find ways to restrain him. Over time, Houdini’s tricks became more and more complex—and dangerous. In one of his most famous acts, “The Chinese Water Torture Cell,” Houdini was suspended upside-down in a case full of water. The escape required Houdini to hold his breath for over three minutes!
Surprisingly, considering the dangerous nature of his acts, Houdini died of peritonitis on October 31st, 1926. This is why Halloween is also National Magic Day!
Guess what?
The Amazing Max lives on the same magical block in New York City that Houdini lived on!
