Ole Bull

Ole Bull was a Norwegian virtuoso violinist and composer, who was regarded as one of the greatest violinists of the 19th century. He was influenced by both classical and folk music, and composed many works for the violin, often inspired by Norwegian culture and scenery. He also promoted Norwegian nationalism and supported the independence movement from Sweden. He traveled extensively throughout Europe and America, giving thousands of concerts and earning fame and fortune. He was friends with many prominent artists and writers, such as Franz Liszt, Robert Schumann, Henrik Ibsen, and Mark Twain. He also attempted to establish a Norwegian colony in Pennsylvania, called Oleana, but the project failed. He was married twice and had six children. He died of cancer at his island home, Lysøen, near Bergen, in 1880.