Explained: Houdini’s centennial spotlight: A newly published essay and a fresh fight over when and how he died

Harry Houdini died a century ago, and interest in him continues with new publications and events.

peritonitis

A serious inflammation of the abdominal lining, cited as the official cause of Houdini's death.

appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix, which Houdini was hospitalized for before his death.

Vaudeville

A theatrical entertainment genre popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries featuring variety acts.

autopsy

A medical examination of a body after death to determine cause; none was performed on Houdini.

seance

A gathering where people attempt to communicate with the dead, held in cities Houdini visited as part of centennial events.