FAMOUS ORPHANS  Orphans are among the most prominent figures in history and fiction, beginning in ancient times and continuing to the present day. Orphaned characters, both real and imagined, permeate every aspect of Western culture as inspirational examples of isolated, lonely children who overcame cruelty and hardship to become heroes, leaders, and champions.
Although orphans are thoroughly represented in our culture - from biblical figures like Moses to fictional characters like Oliver Twist - they are rarely recognized as a part of regular society. In the U.S. alone, nearly half a million children are estimated to be living in institutions and foster care centers throughout the nation, yet most Americans don't know they exist. Worldwide, 143 million children struggle to survive without a family of their own. Their stories will play out in institutions, on the streets, and otherwise removed from society. Far too few will have a happy ending.
Project Hope has compiled the information linked below to help you learn more about the people, events, and stories that shape our perceptions about orphans and adoptees. As you read these pages, please remember that YOU CAN bring hope to an orphan.
The pages of history are filled with real and fictionalized orphans:
 Moses' mother saved him by letting him drift down the Nile in a woven basket. He was adopted by the Pharaoh’s daughter, who found him in the bulrushes and raised him as an Egyptian prince. Moses discovered his Jewish identity and led his people of out slavery and into the Promised Land.
King Arthur was also an orphan. He was magically able to pull a sword from a stone, giving him the authority to organize an entire nation. Till this very day, his story provides inspiration for novels, poems, motion pictures and even a Broadway musical.
The Colosseum in RomeRomulus and Remus are said to have founded the ancient city of Rome. These twin boys were sons of Mars, the god of war. They  were left out to die as tiny infants, but miraculously saved by a female wolf who nursed them until they were found by a shepherd who adopted them as his own.
Historical or mythological, each of these humble, orphaned figures is credited with changing the course of our history.
For more information read Perspectives by Andrew Fedynsky. Back to top
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Missions to the poor is the response of the church to the commandment of Jesus to preach the gospel to every people in all nations. Its outreach is universal. Its fulfilment demands obedience. Its executions presuppoeses the annointing of the Holy Spirit. Its triumph is guaranteed by Jesus Christ Himself" Walter Horner
