Sherlock Holmes
Because he is so commonly referenced in pop culture today, Sherlock Holmes is often mistaken for a real-life detective from years gone by. The beloved detective might have been based on a British surgeon called Joseph Bell, but as it turns out, he has never existed in real life. Author Arthur Conan Doyle, who brought the character to life, has never suggested that he was a historical figure, in spite of him becoming one thanks to his widespread popularity.
Sherlock Holmes
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