Everyone has a soft spot for a bad boy. These men exude an irresistible charm and charisma that can even soften the hardest of hearts. Despite their rebellious ways, there’s always something redeemable about them. The idea of “saving” them is a temptation that draws good-hearted women from near and far. These Don Juans and Robin Hoods are experts at capturing the hearts of women. I, for one, find them impossible to resist.
However, the term “bad boy” is a blanket term that covers various types of charming men. For this list, let’s break down exactly what kinds of bad boys we’re talking about. We’ll focus on three main categories: rakes, rogues, and libertines. So, what sets each of these types apart? What are their unique traits?
The rake, or rakehell, became popular during the Restoration period. This type is usually a witty, carefree man from the middle to upper classes who loves a wild lifestyle and is irresistibly attractive. Back in the Restoration era, these men were often seen in the “Merry Gang” of courtiers at King Charles II’s court. They were not only partiers but also patrons of the arts and highly intellectual. A well-known rake you might recognize is Giacomo Casanova. Frequently depicted as the real-life Don Juan, Casanova is famed for his numerous romantic escapades and his reputation as the ultimate party boy.
A rogue, on the other hand, is typically an outlaw. This can include pirates, bandits, or highwaymen. What makes them stand out is their charm and popularity despite their criminal professions. A famous rogue in history is Charles Earl Bowles, also known as Black Bart. He was dubbed the “gentleman bandit” of the southwest and was one of the most notorious stagecoach robbers of the 19th century. Known for his style and sophistication, Black Bart even left poems at the scene of some of his robberies.
Lastly, there’s the libertine. Known for advocating sexual freedom and rejecting societal norms, the libertine is perhaps the most dangerous type of bad boy. Often seen as dissolute, libertines indulge in life’s sensual pleasures with abandon. Notable libertines include John Wilmot, the 2nd Earl of Rochester, and the Marquis de Sade. These men are definitely ones to watch out for.
There you have it, the different facets of rakes, rogues, and libertines. Now, let’s dive into the list. In the past, we’ve explored lovable rogues in film and television, as well as Byronic bad boys in various media. Today, I want to look at the historical figures who inspired these charismatic characters. From the mostly harmless but charming to the truly naughty and dangerous, here are the real bad boys of history who sparked their fictional counterparts.
– Alexander the Great
– Benjamin Franklin
– Billy the Kid
– Lord Byron
– Giacomo Casanova
– Charles Earl Bowles (Black Bart)
– Elvis Presley
– Errol Flynn
– Julius Caesar
– Genghis Khan
– Howard Hughes
– John F. Kennedy
– John Wilmot, 2nd Earl of Rochester
– Mallanaga Vatsyayana (author of the Kamasutra)
– King Charles II of England
– Marc Antony
– Ned Kelly
– Oscar Wilde
– Percy Bysshe Shelley
– Pablo Picasso
– The Marquis de Sade
– Sir Walter Raleigh
– Captain William Kidd
– Claude Duval
– Hugh Hefner
Can you think of any other historical bad boys I’ve missed? Feel free to share your thoughts below!
