Impoverished Girl Uses Genius Move To Become Infamous Parisian Socialite

Cora Pearl was the premiere courtesan of Paris during the middle of the nineteenth century. Born under a different name in complete anonymity, she enjoyed a life of lavish luxury; she was desired and coveted by so many, but by the time of her death, it was all over. This rags-to-riches-to-rags story created one of the biggest sensations in English history.

A Forged Identity

The infamous Cora Pearl was not born; she was created. Eliza Emma Crouch, on the other hand, was born sometime in December of 1835 or 1836. The date is disputed because she changed her birth year and date to make herself younger.

English Roots

Known for her French involvement, she was actually born in England. Her father left the family while Emma was still young leading her mother to remarry. This caused a massive rift in the family dynamic for one serious reason.

Daddy Issues

Emma and her new stepfather had a volatile relationship, causing Emma and her sisters to be shipped off to a boarding school in France. The conclusion of her education would bring her to live with her grandmother in London.

Stuck in a Rut

She was employed as a milliner's assistant and found herself, in the prime of her youth, incredibly bored. Emma always had a strong, rebellious and passionate personality. Her remedial position would not last long. One major event would change her life.