Belle Gunnss Research Paper

Belle Gunness: Hell’s Belle - The Birth & Upbringing of Baleful Belle Belle Gunness was a heinous serial killer who murdered between 1884 and 1908 and was believed to have murdered over 40 people. Throughout history, Gunness has also been referred to as “Hell’s Belle” and “Lady Bluebeard” (Rosewood 201). Six feet and over 200 pounds, Belle Gunness could effortlessly control her victims (BE2). Though Gunness committed her disturbing crimes in America, she was born in Selbu, Norway on November 11, 1859 (Belle Gunness Biography). Gunness was the eighth child of her family and was the daughter of a stonemason and his wife (Rosewood 201). She was named Brynhild Paulsdatter Strseth, however, she later changed this name to Belle when she settled

Considering this, one common story exists. This story pertains to a specific incident that occurred in Gunness’ youth. The story states that Belle Gunness attended a dance whilst pregnant (Alexander). At the said dance, Gunness was kicked in the stomach, resulting in a miscarriage. The man who kicked Belle Gunness was extremely wealthy, and thus, did not suffer any consequences. However, the individual died soon after the attack, and Gunness is suspected to be responsible (Rosewood 201). Following the incident, Belle Gunness began work at a farm to obtain money to move to America, in hopes of finding further wealth. When Gunness arrived in the United States, she changed her name from Brynhild to Belle, in an attempt to fit in as a new American (Rosewood

The doctors testified of his heart problems, and no autopsy was performed. The most suspicious element of his death, however, was that two life insurance policies happened to align with the exact date he died. Belle Gunness collected the funds and purchased a farm near La Porte, Indiana (Rosewood 202). Sorenson’s family grew awfully skeptical of Gunness’ intentions, but the claims never went anywhere. She married once more in April of 1902 to Peter Gunness before settling for her sinful life ahead in La Porte. The marriage did not last long, and a week after being wed, Peter’s baby girl passed away in Gunness’ care. Peter was also murdered soon after the child (Rosewood