Scientists & Inventors · 20th Century
Alan Turing’s Last Words
“Unknown — he died alone from cyanide poisoning.”— Alan Turing, June 7, 1954
Who Was Alan Turing?
Alan Turing cracked the Nazi Enigma code at Bletchley Park and is considered the father of theoretical computer science. His work helped win World War II and laid the foundations for modern computing.
The Final Moments
Turing was found dead by his housekeeper, with a half-eaten apple beside his bed. He had been prosecuted for homosexuality and subjected to chemical castration. Whether his death was suicide or accidental is debated.
Are These Words Verified?
Official inquest records confirm Turing died alone and was found by his housekeeper the next day. The circumstances preclude any last words being recorded.
Sources
- archive Inquest records, June 1954
- biography Andrew Hodges's Alan Turing: The Enigma
Legacy
Turing was posthumously pardoned in 2013. The Turing Award is the highest honor in computer science, and the Turing Test remains the benchmark for artificial intelligence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Alan Turing’s last words?
“Unknown — he died alone from cyanide poisoning.”
How did Alan Turing die?
Alan Turing died on June 7, 1954 at the age of 41. Cause of death: Cyanide poisoning (suicide or accidental).
Were Alan Turing’s last words documented?
Official inquest records confirm Turing died alone and was found by his housekeeper the next day. The circumstances preclude any last words being recorded.
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