Clifford Cohen
================

Full Name and Common Aliases

Clifford Cohen was born as Clifford Irving, but he is more commonly known by his pseudonym, Clifford Irving.

Birth and Death Dates

Born: 1930
Died: 2017

Nationality and Profession(s)

Cohen was an American con man, best-selling author, and memoirist. He was a master of deception, with multiple aliases and fabricated personas throughout his life.

Early Life and Background

Born in 1930, Cohen grew up in New York City. His early life was marked by poverty and hardship. He was the son of Jewish immigrants who struggled to make ends meet. This background would later influence his writing and shape his worldview.

Cohen's interest in writing began at an early age. He started writing stories and poems as a teenager, drawing inspiration from his surroundings and experiences. After dropping out of high school, he worked various jobs to support himself while continuing to write in his spare time.

Major Accomplishments

In the 1960s, Cohen achieved significant success with his first novel, _The Art Forger_. However, it was his later work that brought him widespread recognition and notoriety. His most notable achievement is likely his attempt to sell a fake autobiography of Howard Hughes, claiming it was written by Hughes himself.

Cohen's plan involved creating a fictional manuscript, complete with forged letters and documents, to sell to publishers. He managed to deceive several major publishing houses, including McGraw-Hill, before the scheme was exposed in 1969.

Notable Works or Actions

In addition to his forgery of the Hughes autobiography, Cohen wrote several books under various pseudonyms. These works include novels, memoirs, and even a biography of Mark Twain. His writing often explored themes of identity, deception, and the human condition.

Cohen's life was not without controversy. He was known for his cunning and manipulative nature, using his charisma to deceive those around him. However, he also had a talent for creating compelling stories that captivated readers.

Impact and Legacy

Clifford Cohen's impact on literature is multifaceted. While some view him as a master con artist, others see him as a skilled writer who explored the complexities of human nature through his work. His ability to create engaging narratives, often rooted in deception, raised questions about the boundaries between truth and fiction.

Cohen's legacy extends beyond his writing. He remains an intriguing figure, with many regarding him as a modern-day Scheherazade. His story has inspired numerous adaptations, including films, plays, and even a TV series.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Clifford Cohen is widely remembered for his audacious schemes, clever writing, and ability to manipulate those around him. His life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deception and the blurred lines between truth and fiction. Despite controversy surrounding his actions, Cohen's impact on literature and popular culture remains significant.

His story continues to captivate audiences, inspiring reflection on the nature of identity, creativity, and the power of storytelling. Whether viewed as a con artist or a masterful writer, Clifford Cohen remains an enigmatic figure whose legacy continues to shape our understanding of human nature.