Howard Hughes was an American businessman, investor, and aviator known for his eccentric lifestyle and immense wealth. He was also known for his will and testament, which has remained a subject of discussion among legal experts and historians. In this article, we will explore the details of Howard Hughes' will and testament.
Early Life of Howard Hughes
Howard Hughes was born on December 24, 1905, in Houston, Texas. He was the only child of Howard Robard Hughes Sr. and Allene Stone Gano. His father was an inventor and businessman, while his mother was a socialite. Howard Hughes inherited his father's wealth and business acumen, and he began investing in various industries at a young age.
Howard Hughes' Business Ventures
Howard Hughes' business ventures included aviation, film, and real estate. He founded the Hughes Aircraft Company in 1932, which became one of the leading aerospace and defense contractors in the world. He also produced several successful films, including "Hell's Angels" and "The Outlaw." Additionally, he invested heavily in real estate, particularly in Las Vegas.
Howard Hughes' Personal Life
Howard Hughes' personal life was marked by controversy and scandal. He was married twice, but both marriages ended in divorce. He was also involved in several high-profile relationships with actresses and models, including Katharine Hepburn, Ava Gardner, and Jean Peters. Additionally, he became increasingly reclusive in his later years and was rumored to have suffered from mental illness.
Howard Hughes' Last Will and Testament
Howard Hughes' last will and testament was signed on April 5, 1972, in Las Vegas. The will was 19 pages long and contained several unusual provisions. One of the most notable provisions was the creation of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which was tasked with advancing medical research and education. The will also named several people as beneficiaries, including his ex-girlfriend Eva McLelland, his pilot and personal assistant, and his cousin William Lummis.
Controversy Surrounding Howard Hughes' Will
Howard Hughes' will was the subject of several legal challenges after his death in 1976. Some of his distant relatives claimed that the will was a forgery and that they were entitled to a share of his estate. Additionally, several people who were not named in the will claimed that Hughes had promised them a portion of his fortune. However, these challenges were ultimately dismissed by the courts, and the provisions of the will were upheld.
Legacy of Howard Hughes
Howard Hughes' legacy is complex and multifaceted. He was a pioneer in aviation and aerospace, a successful businessman and investor, and a controversial figure in his personal life. His will and testament created a lasting legacy through the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which has made significant contributions to medical research and education. Despite the controversy surrounding his life and death, Howard Hughes remains a prominent figure in American history.