Lesser-known Facts about Late Charlie Chaplin on His Birth Anniversary

Today,16 April, marks the birth anniversary of the renowned British comedian and entertainer Charlie Chaplin, who is best known for his character, the naive and lovable Little Tramp.

Chaplin also has been the definition and benchmark of comedy for a long time now. His silent films have made the world of cinema laugh, cry and feel for years and continue to leave their charms.

He is regarded as one of the film industry's most important figures. His career spanned more than 75 years, from childhood in the Victorian era until a year before he died in 1977, and encompassed both adulation and controversy.

Born in London, Chaplin began performing at an early age, touring music halls and later working as a stage actor and comedian.

At the age of 19, he was signed to the Fred Karno company, which took him to the United States.

His luck came when he was scouted for the film industry and began appearing in 1914 for Keystone Studios. He soon developed the Tramp persona and attracted a large fan base.

The late star directed his own films and continued to hone his craft as he moved to the Essanay, Mutual, and First National corporations.

By 1918, he became one of the world's best-known figures, after he wrote a book about his journey, titled My Wonderful Visit.

Throughout his career, he received many accolades including, an Honorary Academy Award for "the incalculable effect he has had in making motion pictures the art form of this century" in 1972, as part of a renewed appreciation for his work.

Chaplin passed away at age 88 from natural causes on December 25, 1977, at his home in Vevey, Switzerland. His funeral was a small and private Anglican ceremony according to his wishes.