# Charles Mackay

## Biography

Charles Mackay was a Scottish poet, journalist, and author born in Perth in 1814. Educated in Brussels, he embarked on a varied literary career that saw him contribute to and edit several prominent publications. He began writing in French before moving to London and working for The Sun and as assistant sub-editor of The Morning Chronicle. Mackay later served as editor of the Glasgow Argus and The Illustrated London News. A prolific writer, he penned numerous poems, songs, and novels, achieving widespread popularity for his lyrical verse, with many of his songs set to music. He is best remembered today for his enduring work, *Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds*, first published in 1841, which explores historical fads and irrational behaviors. Mackay also traveled extensively, notably to North America as a correspondent during the American Civil War. He received an LL.D. from the University of Glasgow and died in London in 1889.

## Books

- [Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds](https://samolit.com/books/96246)