Houdini was a master of escapology, able to free himself from handcuffs, chains, and even straitjackets. He performed these escapes in front of live audiences, and they often became the stuff of legend. In one of his most famous escapes, Houdini was suspended upside down in a glass of water and freed himself in less than a minute. He also performed an escape from a trunk that had been nailed shut and dropped into the East River.
Showmanship
Houdini was a gifted showman, and his performances were often as much about entertainment as they were about skill. He would often add dramatic elements to his escapes, such as having them done underwater or in front of a live audience. He also had a knack for self-promotion, and he used his fame to become one of the most well-known entertainers of his time.
Mystique
Houdini was able to create an aura of mystery around himself, and this only added to his appeal. He was often reluctant to reveal the secrets of his tricks, and he would often leave audiences guessing as to how he did them. This mystique made him even more popular, and it helped to cement his status as one of the greatest magicians of all time.