Clive Cussler

Clive Cussler is an author renowned for his thrilling adventure novels. Born in 1931, Cussler began his writing career in the 1960s, with non-fiction works about maritime history, and later released his first novel in 1973. Since then, his Viking-branded novels have sold over 150 million copies, and have been printed in over forty different languages. He has also established himself as a respected underwater explorer, lending further support to his acclaimed works of historical fiction that involve curious and often long-lost relics.

Early Career

Clive Cussler was born in 1931 in Aurora, Illinois, and his family soon relocated to California where he spent his childhood. He attended Pasadena City College, where he studied to become an aircraft technician. Cussler subsequently served in the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant in the Air Force Reserve, and was the recipient of a number of decorations. After serving in the military, Cussler subsequently worked as an advertising copywriter and creative director, writing catchy advertisements for a number of different products.

In 1966, Cussler released his first book; a non-fiction work about maritime history. It was an immediate success, and in response, Cussler decided to dedicate himself to writing. In fact, he was able to quit his day job and become a full-time writer. Cussler’s novels began with 1973’s The Mediterranean Caper, the first of many to feature the fearless Dirk Pitt, from whom Cussler derived his pen name. Since then, he has published an astounding number of books detailing the investigations, explorations, and adventures of Dirk Pitt, and presented the work in an obvious and accessible manner that appealed to a large audience.

Dirk Pitt

The Dirk Pitt novels revolve around a protagonist who begins as an individual contributor to the United States government, but steadily grows to become a beloved world-wide hero. Pitt, who is a combination of a detective and an action hero, is often seen searching for lost objects, ancient artifacts, and ancient mysteries. Cussler was inspired to develop Dirk Pitt as a protagonist after his own experiences exploring the seas, as he was exposed to many curious mysteries.

In each book, Pitt embarks on a highly complex mission that ultimately saves the world from a potential disaster. Armed with humor and wit, Pitt is always guided by his sense of justice and morality, standing as a beacon of courage and justice in the face of unbeatable odds. Pitt’s persona has kept readers enchanted for decades, and along with his intriguing adventures and explorations, he successfully draws readers back for yet another captivating book.

Exploration

Clive Cussler is also an appreciable underwater explorer, having dived around the world to search for lost ships. He discovered several notable vessels, including the Carpathian, a British troop carrier from the First World War. In addition to his discoveries, Cussler’s exploits inspired the very novels he is renowned for.

Cussler’s exploration experience is also alive in his National Underwater and Marine Agency (NUMA). Established in 1979, NUMA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving maritime and submerged heritage and exploration. The organization assists government and educational institutions in searching for historic vessels, and works with form archaeology teams to preserve underwater wreckage, regardless of its age.

Conclusion

Clive Cussler is an accomplished author whose novels have become required reading for millions of readers. His works, which were largely inspired by his exploits in maritime exploration, present interesting adventures and mysteries to uncover. It is his ability to tie in elements of his own life that have made him so successful and respected; Cussler has certainly made his mark within the literary world.