The term "mastermind" can refer to several different things, leading to varying answers depending on the context. Here's a breakdown:
1. The Board Game "Mastermind":
Mordecai Meirowitz, an Israeli postmaster and telecommunications expert, invented the board game Mastermind in 1970. It's a code-breaking game where players try to guess the secret code set by their opponent.
2. The British Game Show "Mastermind":
Bill Wright, a British television producer, created the British game show Mastermind in 1970. The show features contestants answering questions on their specialist subject, often under intense pressure from the iconic black chair.
3. The Concept of a "Mastermind Group":
While no single person invented the concept of a mastermind group, Benjamin Franklin is credited with establishing the first documented modern-day mastermind group in the United States in 1727. These groups are comprised of individuals who meet regularly to support each other's goals, provide accountability, and share ideas.
4. The "Mastermind" in a Narrative Context:
The term "mastermind" often refers to a cunning individual who plans and executes a complex scheme, usually criminal in nature. In fictional narratives, the identity of the mastermind is typically revealed at the climax of the story.
Therefore, the answer to "Who invented masterminds?" depends on the specific context of the term "mastermind".
