1-156-764 - Ann Ronan Picture Library/Heritage-Images

Jules Verne, French adventure and science fiction author, 1888. Jules Verne (1828-1905) was one of the pioneers of science fiction. His novels, including 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Around the World in 80 Days enjoyed great popularity and influenced other authors, amongst them HG Wells. Verne's work often anticipated later scientific inventions and techological breakthroughs, including manned spaceflight.