History of Jack the Ripper in Timeline

Jack the Ripper was an unidentified serial killer active in London's Whitechapel district in 1888. Known also as the Whitechapel Murderer and Leather Apron, the Ripper terrorized the impoverished area. His identity remains unknown, fueling enduring fascination and speculation. The murders attributed to him are characterized by extreme brutality.

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Full Timeline

September 1913: Identification of "Dear Boss" letter author

In September 1913, Chief Inspector John Littlechild identified Tom Bullen as the journalist who wrote the "Dear Boss" letter and postcard, attributed to Jack the Ripper.

1931: Fred Best's Confession

In 1931, journalist Fred Best reportedly confessed that he and a colleague at The Star wrote the letters signed "Jack the Ripper" to boost interest in the murders.

2006: Jack the Ripper as worst Briton

In 2006, a BBC History magazine poll selected Jack the Ripper as the worst Briton in history.

2015: Opening of the Jack the Ripper Museum

In 2015, the Jack the Ripper Museum opened in east London, attracting criticism from the Tower Hamlets mayor and protestors.

2021: "Jack The Chipper" protests

In 2021, protests occurred when the second "Jack The Chipper" fish and chip shop opened in Greenwich, leading to boycott threats.

2021: Value of Whitechapel Vigilance Committee reward

In 2021, the £50 reward offered by the Whitechapel Vigilance Committee for information leading to the capture of Jack the Ripper would be equivalent to between £5,900 and £86,000.

2023: Cost of lodging in Whitechapel

In 2023, the equivalent cost of a coffin bed in Whitechapel's common lodging-houses would be £2 per night, while sleeping on a 'lean-to' rope would cost twopence.