Ian Fleming Biography
Ian Fleming (1908 - 1964) was born in London on 28 May 1908 into a wealthy English family. He studied at prestigious institutions such as Eton and Sandhurst Military Academy in England, Germany and Switzerland. Before achieving fame as a writer, Fleming devoted himself to journalism at Reuters from 1929-1933, after which he began working in banking (1935-1939). Between 1945 and 1949 he was a naval intelligence officer while also representing the London Sunday Times as a foreign manager during the Second World War. During his years in naval intelligence, Fleming rose to the rank of lieutenant and later became commander. He was the director's full-time assistant, the right-hand man of Admiral John Godfrey, one of Britain's top spymasters. As he planned and executed dangerous missions, Fleming fueled his imagination. His experiences were later reflected in his adventurous James Bond tales. Towards the end of his career as a Secret Service agent, Ian discovers the beautiful island of Jamaica, far from war, full of peace and pleasure where he will later build a house and write his famous Bond series. After retiring, Fleming moved there and began building his new career as a writer, returning to England only for a few months each year. Some famous novels featuring the legendary spy James Bond, which have been adapted for the screen, include From Russia, with Love (1957), Dr. No (1958), Goldfinger (1959) and Thunderball (1961). Despite receiving much criticism, the Bond phenomenon has continued to grow not only through new novels but also through merchandise such as clothing, games and toys. Releases of the New Bond films have continued over the years, as have the series of novels written by other writers even after Ian Fleming's death. Fleming's declining health and outdoor activities prohibited by his doctors caused a heart attack that led to his death at the Royal St. George's Sandwich golf course in Kent on 12 August 1964.
