Who inspired Harry Houdini to become a magician?

Harry Houdini's inspiration to pursue magic as a career came from a French illusionist named Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin. Houdini became captivated by the art of illusion and magic after his first encounter with Robert-Houdin's performances in Paris. Inspired by Robert-Houdin's artistry, Houdini adopted the stage name "Houdini" as a tribute to his idol and dedicated himself to mastering the craft of magic, eventually rising to become one of the most famous and influential magicians in history.