The Strange Case of Charles and Florence Bravo - Victorian True Crime
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- Опубліковано 27 вер 2024
- The story of Charles Bravo centers on the mysterious and controversial death of an English barrister in 1876. Charles Bravo was a newly married lawyer who suddenly fell ill and died over the course of three days after ingesting a large dose of antimony, a toxic substance. His death became one of the most famous unsolved poisoning cases in Victorian England.
Key elements of the story include:
Charles Bravo's Background: Bravo was a successful barrister who married Florence Ricardo, a wealthy widow. Their marriage was reportedly troubled, with frequent quarrels and tensions.
The Incident: Bravo suddenly became violently ill on the evening of April 18, 1876. Despite medical treatment, his condition worsened, and he died on April 21. Before dying, he claimed to have taken nothing voluntarily that could have caused his illness.
Investigation: The inquest into Bravo’s death revealed that he had ingested antimony, a poison often used at the time in small doses for medicinal purposes. The circumstances suggested that the poison had been administered over time, leading to a buildup in his system.
Suspects:
Florence Bravo: His wife, whose previous marriage ended in scandal, was suspected due to their troubled relationship.
Dr. James Gully: Florence’s former lover and a prominent physician, was also suspected due to his close association with Florence.
Mrs. Jane Cox: The housekeeper, who had a contentious relationship with Bravo, was another suspect.
Outcome: Despite a thorough investigation and sensational media coverage, no one was ever charged with the murder. The inquest concluded with an open verdict, leaving the case unsolved.
The mystery of Charles Bravo's death remains one of the most intriguing unsolved cases in British criminal history, with theories ranging from accidental overdose to deliberate poisoning by one of the close associates.
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“What slower, deadlier poison is there than a lifetime of abuse, tragedy, and loneliness?” That gave me the shivers. Thank you…very well done!
Indeed. Came to comment on this very thing. Paul's tender heart for Florence's sad life really shines through.
It's so true
Abuse, tragedy, and loneliness describes my life so far. Hopefully, now that I am free of it, the rest of my life will get better.
There are so many stories like that it will fill millions of books, Thus the apostle paul was bloody clever when he said if you can do it stay single, this one solves all the other big problems except one-a way to control one sexual desires and urges and also deal with been alone sometime , anyone who can do that is a king in disguised.
@@democracyforall Yeah well, didn't save me. When they think your theirs and you dont follow thru,
they can get very pissy......trust me
My 93yr old grandma told me about this channel haha i love it as much as she does ❤
Haha, I love this! Please give her a hug from me ☺🤗
There's no finer a YT moment than an awesome comment meeting an awesome channel. Grandma Ligoo, if you're reading this, you ROCK! 🫂
Grandma has great taste. Enjoy
Mr. Brodie, I felt compelled to tell you that when I am feeling quite depressed and begin to be overwhelmed by hopeless irrational thoughts, I try to focus on the truly wonderful things in life that I appreciate, such as my wife, my dog, a excellent pastrami sandwich, a warm breeze on a sunny day in spring, and knowing that there are uniquely gifted people such as You in the world , who can raise my spirits and bring a feeling of comfort merely by the sound of their voice and natural charisma. Thank You kindly Paul, Mr. Brodie!
The world can be an overwhelming place at times (Seemingly more so lately) but I think you're tackling things in the right way by appreciating the positives. I'm extremely grateful to be counted amongst them ☺🙏
@AllGoodOutside What a truly heartwarming comment.. 🤗
@@WellINever Thank you for your understanding and your kind reply!
@@pimpozza I think you would agree that Mr. Brodie has a exceptional presence and manner of expressing himself😃
@@AllGoodOutside Yes, I would totally agree with that! I wish you a nice weekend.. 🤗🙋🏻♀️
Well I never… thought that a UA-cam channel would be my escape from anxiety, become a closely followed interest, educate me, and intensify my absolute love for history! Thank you!
When you introduce us to these people and their stories I feel as if I have met them. Well done!
Just imagine how her life would have been if Dr G had been able to divorce and they'd been married. Policing women's behaviour has led to so much heartache and loss, and not just for the women.
I couldn't agree more. If only people had been better at putting themselves in the shoes of others, they would not make or enforce laws that only cause misery. Most people just want to live a quiet happy life, but sometimes we need to cut ties and form new ones in order to make that possible. The fact Florence was so lonely due to social conventions is upsetting.
In our day and age she might have been able to use social media to connect with other lonely people around the world and perhaps find some comfort and happiness in that.
@@CocoWantsACrackeror, unfortunately, social media could have been used to more flagrantly direct abuse and threats toward her - it's a sad world we live in, and there have always been those who will attack anyone who seems like they might be happier or better off.
the man strung her along and used her, he used his wife as an excuse to avoid another marriage: he had reason for divorce, he chose to hot go through with it
@@bostonrailfan2427Do you have a source? (really interested)
@@CocoWantsACracker I doubt that...I never have.
I’ve always been fascinated by this story. I like Jane Cox for this. Bravo didn’t get along with her, and maybe she was afraid she would be fired, like the coachman. She had three children to support, so wouldn’t have wanted to lose a good job as Florence’s companion/housekeeper. Great video, anyway!
Yes, Jane Cox was determined to paint Florence as the murderer, throwing so much muck to sully her reputation so no one would pity or believe Florence, or look at Jane, herself.
I believe it was Jane Cox. She had become protective and didn't like how she was being treated. She had access to the horses meds. Disappeared after inquiry to me is "whew, that was close."❤
I did have to wonder as well what happened with her own husband.
And although I don't think it was the 'good, kind' doctor I do think he was the worst villain in the whole story. Committing his own wife, having a prodigious affair, killing his own child. Not an upstanding chap to be sure.
It's always a special treat when I see your notifications.
Great commentary, so clearly spoken, Thank-you.Such a fascinating series......
Thank you Mr brodie can't wait to watch this video. You videos cheer me up especially now I'm stuck in bed with a terrible flu 😢
Hoping you get well soon, Emma! 🙏🤧
@@WellINever thank you very much. I'm hoping I get better as I'm going burghley house for my birthday on Tuesday
Get better super-quick! 🙂
Get well, and happy almost birthday ☺️✌️
Oh no! Get well soon!
A recent follower of yours, Sir. But I think your videos are fantastic!
Keep up the great work!
❤ from a subscriber
Gee, thanks, Paul. Just had to throw in that tear-jerker ending, didn’t ya? Lol, another great story, sir. Good to see you!
Being a widow might get sympathy while being divorced would be looked down upon for some reason. She ditched a gold digger who tried offing her? I like that version. Idk. She had money, I wonder why she didn't just sail to Scotland or Americal. Money is all you need for a good fresh start, well before computers.
Good morning, afternoon/evening WIN people and Paul and crew! ❤
Btw how big is the WIN producing crew?
She was likely afraid to step outside of the only world she knew. She kept trying to play by the "rules" given to her, and it ruined her 😢
Even after computers, being able to pay off the correct people can get you a whole new identity.
Brilliantly delivered Paul, thank you for these wonderful excerpts of our history.
Hi Paul just watching this now love and appreciate your work. Many thanks. 😊
Mr Brodie you really put your heart and soul into these stories, you sounded like you got a little heavy hearted there at the end, i think this one took a lot out of you, you made my heart drop a bit as well and i am a scruffy ole working guy from Arkansas. lets go have a beer and remember the good times!
❤😢😮😢😊🎉😊😊😢 12:47
Such a mystery!
Another truly exceptional presentation.. you never let us down, Paul.. Thank you so much, as always.. 💚🤗
Nicely presented sir. To hear of so many sad, desperate and miserable people in this story makes me wonder if being in a different time would have made a difference.
Love this channel
Thank you kindly Mr Brodie.
Every time I see a new video has been posted here, I smile to myself and can hardly wait to get a drink and settle in for what I know will be, a very intriguing and fascinating story. I just can't get enough of the great story telling and that soothing, melodic voice. Love and great respect from Florida, US.
Quite a story. Thanks for this bit of history
Awesome as always keep up the good work
Something about your British accent and your articulation makes you very enjoyable to listen to.
I thank you for your service sir!
I didn't know this was on, about to watch it
Always a delight to see Paul pop up. 😊
Ooh a new episode just in time for my before bed wind down! ❤An excellent case as usual. Thank you.
"#BRAVO" .
Another great, but very tragic tale to say to.
I'm pretty sure you get this a lot, but I can't help it: as an American livin in Prague, I not only appreciate the stories you tell, I also adore your accent - I honestly wish I could talk like you do. 🖤
Wonderful videos, I am a big fan, thank you.
Love your voice, love your show, thank you. 🙏🕊💙✨
Thank you for the interesting content, I look forward to seeing your videos they are all good ! Thanks again!
Wonderful as always Thank you Paul
Thanks for the upload, Paul!
Golly. That hit hard at the end. I think you hit the nail on the head with that one. So heartbreaking for Florence.
Thank you for the video!
I love these stories-- the way you narate them and time period
As always thank you😊
Florence may have felt she couldn't divorce Charles since it was her marriage to him that restored her station in society. Doctor Gulley may have felt that, since Florence was suffering as a result of being in another miserable, abusive marriage, poisoning Charles was an act of kindness and convinced Jane to mix the poison into Charles' water.
Hm...sad story. Enthralling and mysterious but sad. Well told Mr Brody.
Thank you for another interesting video!
...another well told story! Thank you, Paul!
Thank you love your work ❤
Bravo looks like the stereotypical, wealthy Victorian scoundrel 😅
this tale is heartbreaking.
Excellent story, as good as the early ones ! Thank you!
Another great report Paul.
Sad case as so many of these are but this one seems to have been such a mix of emotions and mystery.
Yaay! My Favourite Narrator!
I remember reading three dissections of the Bravo case, and they each picked a different cause (including Bravo accidentally poisoning himself).
Someone with strong opinions about the case wrote a parody of Oliver Goldsmith's poem "When Lovely Woman Stoops To Folly".
When lovely woman stoops to folly
And finds her husband in the way,
What charm can soothe her melancholy,
What art can turn him into clay?
The only means her aims to cover
And save herself from prison locks,
And repossess her ancient lover,
Are Burgundy and Mrs Cox!
Oh my god, in EVERY picture of Charles he is so smug and full of himself! Gross.
I grew up a couple of minutes walk from The Priory. It was abandoned and neglected, but the braver members of our crowd used to get inside to explore. They all said it was haunted and most of the local kids were scared of the place
I really enjoyed it 😊
I’m thinking it was Mr. Griffiths and Ms. Cox conspiring. Thank you for the video.
My guess is that he took the poison to frame his wife and get her money then realized he had taken too much. Rather than admit as much he simply said nothing.
I love that Florence goes to her parents like 'I want to leave my arsehole husband' and they said 'no, go see our doctor friend, he'll fix you' and the doctor friend goes 'yeah you should leave him'
Thank you.
Thank you, Another Great case. Dr has the look of Robert DeNero
Well, I never thought such a sad story existed.
Thanks!
Hopefully for a beer, not taxes
Thank you so much! If not beer, I'll put it towards a nice whisky 😁🙏
I am so annoyed. I have been subscribed to your channel for a long time and have had "all" notifications on. I received the notification for this video, only to realise that I had not received notifications for several of your previous videos! I rely heavily on notifications because, when you're subscribed to 750+ channels, it's impossible to keep track of all of them! Anyway, I took the advice from a friend and unsubscribed and re-subscribed with (all) notifications turned on. Let's hope that works. Blimey...
Cheers. 😊
First time hearing this story. Fascinating.
When lovely woman stoops to folly
And finds her husband in the way,
What charm can soothe her melancholy,
What art can turn him into clay?
The only means her aims to cover
And save herself from prison locks,
And repossess her ancient lover,
Are Burgundy and Mrs Cox.
- Contemporary, after Goldsmith.
The Priory stood on a corner of Tooting Bec common and as a young child we often walked past it. I knew nothing then of these events, the Priory could hardly be seen through the trees, but i was always scared and felt a real sense of loss and tragedy just there, for no reason as i thought.
Thank you❤
For hundreds of years, poisonings were commonplace throughout the world and were used as a solution to many of life's problems and inconveniences, even as a source of revenue for some to collect life insurance benefits. Not all poisoners were caught and prosecuted; many got away with it, especially if they only did it once.
Medical doctors were surprisingly woefully uneducated in recognizing the signs and symptoms of various forms of poisonings.
Fortunately as divorces became easier to obtain and more socially and religiously acceptable, the incidences of spousal poisonings decreased.
Terribly Sad. As a retired detective, the sparse circumstantial evidence points to Bravo poisoning himself. The "illness" of his wife, who if she died would leave him with her money, but not with the burden of his mentally ailing wife. The fact he called for hot water, and no container for the poison was found. The question that seems to remain (imho) was the poison accidentally used by Bravo, or did the lady's companion slip it into his water as self defense of her lady, with Bravo realizing what had happened, but could not accuse the lady's companion for fear of his slow poisoning of his wife coming to light ???
If Anything, The WORST Abuse She Ever Suffered Was At HER Own Hands (That Led To Her Passing). Too Bad No One Will Ever Know Who Was Responsible For The Demise Of Her 2nd Husband. Unlucky She Was Indeed...Whether She Was Guilty Or Not.
Thank you 😊
What a tragic story. I think he accidentally over sipped the poison and thus killed himself. I think it was an act to discredit his wife and get her money. Poor Florence shunned for falling in love and keeping her own fortune. Thank you Paul.
❤ listening to you
It was me I did it. Nobody knew until just now, but I did it.
Brilliant
Well I Never...
was serious facial hair a requirement to join the plod back then
Proof the X-men’s Wolverine could time travel.
Wait what i soon perked up when you said where I live 😂❤
😢😢A whole life of unhappiness..❤
My son's name is Brodie. You have a Brodie ish personality. Keep up the great work.
Thank you for this. Well I never!
I must admit, if it wasn't for this channel... I wouldn't have knowledge of the many things I have learned from the stories told here. I had never heard of Antimony and until I looked it up and saw the other name for it. I knew I had just learned something NEW and what exactly the mineral was used for BEFORE the industrial purposes its used for today. From Medicines to Euthanizing animals, to COSMETICS... A toxic substance, used for putting horses down, smeared on your face for beauty sounds so enticing, doesn't it???
Thankfully its not just the subject of the killings that teaches me New things, but also the stories themselves TEACH ACTUAL TRUE HISTORY... Unlike schools today with their lets focus on NONHISTORICAL CRAP in a class meant to teach of the many lessons of the past....
Just sad😢
Please for the love of god, narrate some Poirot novels.
A compelling argument for him accidentally poisoning himself.
Poor Florence! Her own parents were more worried about their reputation and status than her health. What incredibly selfish people!
Then she went on to have a long affair with a married man.
Another engaging video that really got my brain sleuthing. I can see why people like Jane Cox, but (and I may be playing devils advocate here) given Charles' dislike for Florence' s drinking perhaps he referred to things like laudanum as 'poison' seeing as it contains Opium. Also if Cox didn't realise that his condition was because of poison she may have felt the need to have things like the sheets cleaned in case of the 'illness' steading particularly if Florence health was already bad. Also did the inquest ever look into Charles ex mistress, the one he left with a young daughter to marry Florence for her money?
I highly recommend that you take a look at the case of Jeremiah Grant the highwayman in Ireland!
There is a book written in the 3 days prior to his hanging called ‘the life and times of Jeremiah Grant, the highwayman’ that is an account of his life written in his own words and published in 1816 (The entire book can be found online for free)
His life is filled with interesting situations, attempted murders, multiple prison escapes, love affairs and his sister being hung for murdering her lover (who her brothers had attempted to kill and who was therefore planning to kill her brothers in return!)
He is an ancestor of mine who I have always been interested in (albeit not proud of!😅)
I'm just reading a book on this case which goes into much more detail. It's a case that never will be solved. Florence Bravo had the motive means and opportunity and so is the most likely suspect. But then there is Mrs. Cox and also the accidental self poisoning theory.
So sad
Sounds like the good Dr was grooming Florence as opposed to championing her.
Greatly told😉
Ysault Bridges makes a very convincing case in " How Charles Bravo died" that Charles Bravo was systematically administering antimony to Florence in order to kill her for her money. The symptoms of her illnesses and the miscarriages she suffered were results of this slow poisoning. Charles took the antimony by mistake and then could not or would not confess to it. He was a psychopath. Florence was the victim. ( she recovered her health after his death,) Her alcoholic decline and death were the result of extreme hostility from the press and public opinion.. Other accounts take different views but Bridges seems to have uncovered the truth.
Funny how police work during the Victorian times was inadequate at best, yet was the era of the best private detectives. Perhaps Scotland Yard actually learned from the writers??😊
Victorian times was a cruel and harsh era for the impoverished. Any modicum of law would be to protect the wealthy elite. I'm convinced the identity of the Ripper was known back then but due to being one of their own it resulted in a cover up. Anyway I digress from the case in question
My dear sir, this American loves all things British from the awesome Royal Family that I love and adore, to the line of rulers that start with William the conqueror all through the Plantagenets and the end of the war of the roses, The Yorks and the Lancastrians starting the Tudor line through all of the Stuarts reign and of course the happy Hanoverians to the Victorian Era and the lovable Windsors and the second Elizabethan Era to the current King Charles lll.
What I love the most is the stories you dear sir tell of some of the most despicable nasty people in British history and you tell it so well ✌️❤️😎
Hello, I tried to join your channel I gave my bank the go ahead to pay you. They approved the payment. Then nothing from the prompt! Can you do anything?
If only Florence and Jane had gotten together! Even just platonically, it sounds like things would have been much more peaceful and amicable (and ultimately less lonely), poor Florence!
If I had to guess I would say Jane Cox. Probably without Florence's knowledge. Maybe she thought she was doing her mistress a favour and expected Florence to be grateful. Then when she wasn't she turned on her...
Marrying someone you don't love will never solve your problems. 😂
Who TF is Charles Bravo?
Listen to the story.
A failed lawyer and ruthless husband.
I shouldn't judge people by their photographs, but Charles wore a smug smirk with a truly villainous mustache. He was a wastrel and a fortune hunter. None of which excuses someone poisoning him. Yet Charles himself seems slightly more plausible as a suspect than anyone else. He may have accidentally injested poison he had meant for his wife.
The suspects:
32% Himself - Charles Bravo
22% The housekeeper - Jane Cox
20% His wife - Florence Bravo
18% Her ex-lover - James Gully
8% Ex-coachman - George Griffiths
I think it was septisitis, since his tooth was bothering him. At first I thought it was her "close friend" but losing her job I dont think she would have risk that.