37 Facts About L Ron Hubbard

Early Life and Education

L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, led an intriguing life filled with many notable events. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years and education.

1. Born on March 13, 1911, in Tilden, Nebraska, Hubbard was the only child of Harry Ross Hubbard and Ledora May Waterbury.
2. His family moved frequently due to his father's naval career, exposing Hubbard to various cultures and experiences.
3. At age 12, Hubbard became the youngest Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.
4. He attended George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where he studied civil engineering but did not complete his degree.
5. Hubbard was an avid reader and writer from a young age, showing a particular interest in science fiction and adventure stories.

Military Service

Hubbard's military service during World War II is often discussed and debated. Here are some key points about his time in the armed forces.

6. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1941, serving as a lieutenant.
7. Hubbard claimed to have been injured in combat, though official records do not fully support this.
8. He was relieved of command twice during his service, once for mistakenly shelling Mexican territory.
9. Despite controversies, Hubbard received several medals, including the American Defense Service Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.
10. His experiences in the Navy influenced his later writings and the development of Scientology.

Writing Career

Before founding Scientology, Hubbard was a prolific writer. His literary career spanned various genres and mediums.

11. He published his first short story, "The Green God," in 1934.
12. Hubbard wrote under multiple pseudonyms, including Winchester Remington Colt and René Lafayette.
13. His most famous science fiction work, "Battlefield Earth," was published in 1982.
14. He also wrote numerous pulp fiction stories, contributing to magazines like "Astounding Science Fiction."
15. Hubbard's writing extended to screenplays and radio dramas, showcasing his versatility as an author.

Founding Scientology

The creation of Scientology marked a significant turning point in Hubbard's life. Here are some pivotal moments in the religion's formation.

16. In 1950, Hubbard published "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health," which became a bestseller.
17. He founded the Church of Scientology in 1953, establishing its first church in Camden, New Jersey.
18. Scientology's teachings are based on Hubbard's writings, including "The Way to Happiness" and "The Fundamentals of Thought."
19. The religion emphasizes self-improvement and spiritual enlightenment through practices like auditing.
20. Hubbard introduced the concept of the "E-meter," a device used in auditing sessions to measure a person's mental state.

Controversies and Legal Issues

Hubbard's life was not without controversy. His actions and the practices of Scientology have sparked numerous legal battles and public debates.

21. In the 1960s, several countries, including the UK and Australia, banned or restricted Scientology.
22. Hubbard faced multiple lawsuits, including allegations of fraud and tax evasion.
23. The FBI investigated him in the 1970s for his involvement in Operation Snow White, a covert operation to infiltrate government agencies.
24. Despite legal challenges, Hubbard maintained a loyal following and continued to promote Scientology.
25. His teachings and practices remain controversial, with critics accusing the church of being a cult.

Later Years and Legacy

Hubbard's later years were marked by seclusion and continued influence over Scientology. His legacy endures through the church and its followers.

26. In 1980, Hubbard went into hiding, living in seclusion until his death.
27. He continued to write and direct Scientology's activities from his secret locations.
28. Hubbard died on January 24, 1986, in Creston, California, at the age of 74.
29. After his death, the Church of Scientology declared him to have "discarded the body" to continue his spiritual research.
30. Hubbard's writings and teachings continue to be the foundation of Scientology, with millions of followers worldwide.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond his well-known achievements, Hubbard's life included many lesser-known but equally fascinating facts.

31. He claimed to have traveled to Asia as a teenager, where he studied Eastern philosophies.
32. Hubbard was an accomplished sailor, owning several boats throughout his life.
33. He developed a keen interest in photography, often documenting his travels and experiences.
34. Hubbard created his own language, "Scientologese," used within the church.
35. He wrote a series of adventure novels set in the Caribbean, reflecting his love for the sea.
36. Hubbard's personal library contained over 20,000 books, showcasing his diverse interests.
37. Despite controversies, Hubbard remains a polarizing figure, with both ardent supporters and vocal critics.

Hubbard's Legacy in a Nutshell

L. Ron Hubbard's life was anything but ordinary. From his early days as a prolific writer to founding Scientology, his journey left a lasting impact. His science fiction works captivated many, while his controversial religious movement sparked heated debates. Despite the controversies, his teachings attracted a global following, making him a significant figure in modern religious history.

Hubbard's influence extends beyond Scientology. His contributions to literature, philosophy, and even maritime adventures showcase a multifaceted personality. Whether viewed as a visionary or a polarizing figure, his legacy continues to provoke thought and discussion.

Understanding Hubbard's life offers insights into the complexities of human belief and the power of ideas. His story reminds us that one person's vision can shape the world in unexpected ways.