13 Facts About Nathan Leopold

The Infamous Crime

Nathan Leopold is best known for his involvement in one of the most notorious crimes of the 20th century. This section delves into the chilling details of the crime that shocked the world.

1. Nathan Leopold, along with his accomplice Richard Loeb, kidnapped and murdered 14-year-old Bobby Franks in 1924. They committed the crime to prove their intellectual superiority, believing they could execute the perfect crime.

2. The murder was meticulously planned for months. Leopold and Loeb even rented a car under a false name to avoid detection.

3. Despite their careful planning, a pair of eyeglasses found near the crime scene led to their capture. The glasses had a unique hinge, which only three people in Chicago had, including Leopold.

The Trial

The trial of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb was a media sensation. This section covers the courtroom drama and its aftermath.

4. The trial was one of the first to be dubbed the "trial of the century." It drew massive public and media attention due to the gruesome nature of the crime and the social status of the defendants.

5. Clarence Darrow, a famous defense attorney, represented Leopold and Loeb. He argued against the death penalty, focusing on their young age and psychological state.

6. The trial lasted for 32 days, and both Leopold and Loeb were eventually sentenced to life imprisonment plus 99 years.

Life in Prison

After their sentencing, Leopold and Loeb's lives took different paths. This section explores their time behind bars.

7. Richard Loeb was killed in prison in 1936 by a fellow inmate. The attack occurred in the shower room, and Loeb died from 58 stab wounds.

8. Nathan Leopold, on the other hand, became a model prisoner. He earned a master's degree, taught classes, and even worked in the prison hospital.

9. Leopold wrote a book titled "Life Plus 99 Years," detailing his experiences and reflections on his crime and imprisonment.

Parole and Later Life

Nathan Leopold's life took a surprising turn after decades in prison. This section highlights his life after parole.

10. Leopold was paroled in 1958 after serving 33 years. His release was controversial, sparking public outrage and media frenzy.

11. After his release, Leopold moved to Puerto Rico, where he worked as a medical technician and later as a teacher. He lived a relatively quiet life, avoiding the spotlight.

12. Leopold dedicated much of his later years to humanitarian work. He volunteered at a hospital and worked on various social projects.

13. Nathan Leopold died in 1971 from a diabetes-related heart attack. Despite his efforts to reform, his name remains synonymous with one of the most infamous crimes in American history.

Reflecting on Nathan Leopold's Life

Nathan Leopold's story is a mix of brilliance and darkness. Known for his high IQ and birdwatching skills, his life took a grim turn with the murder of Bobby Franks. This crime shocked the nation and led to a sensational trial. Despite his heinous act, Leopold's later years showed a man seeking redemption. He earned a degree in prison, worked to help others, and even found love. His release in 1958 allowed him to live quietly until his death in 1971. Leopold's life reminds us that people are complex, capable of both great intelligence and terrible deeds. His story continues to fascinate, serving as a cautionary tale about the potential for both good and evil within us all.