Hugo Gernsback

Hugo Gernsback published the first science fiction magazine, Amazing Stories, and is often called the “Father of Science Fiction.” 

Born in Luxembourg, Gernsback immigrated to the United States in 1904. Intensely interested in electricity and radio, by 1906 he was marketing a home radio set, and in 1908 launched his first magazine, Modern Electrics. It was in this magazine that Gernsback published his novel, Ralph 124C 41+ (1911). A catalogue of the marvelous technology of the 27th century, it revealed his interest in scientific prediction. It was soon followed by a series featuring the scientific adventures of the fictional Baron Munchausen.

In 1923, Gernsback coined the term “scientific fiction,” and its diminutive: “scientifiction.” In 1926 he launched Amazing Stories, the first true science fiction magazine published in English. An immediate commercial success, it allowed him to launch several more magazines, including Wonder Stories and Science Fiction Plus. The Science Fiction Achievement Awards are named the “Hugos” in Gernsback's honor.

Induction Year: 1996

SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY

Ralph 124C 41+ (1911)

PUBLICATIONS FOUNDED

Amazing Stories (1926)
Wonder Stories (1929)
Science Fiction Plus (1953)