In ancient America, violent death in urban areas was very common. They ranged from disputes between friends, family, lovers, money and gangs. The case of HH Holmes, however, was different. His first name is Herman Mudgett and he will later be known by HH Holmes. The name HH Holmes would be known as one of America's first serial killers. Many wonder whether man was born predestined to commit such crimes. Not as a cruel act of God, but rather as a mental disorder. Mudgett himself states: "I could not help the fact that I was a murderer, any more than the poet has the inspiration to sing." However, I, along with others, believe that although he was indeed a sociopath (the ability to interact normally with others, yet behaves dangerously and violently and feels no remorse) it was his upbringing that nurtured Mudgett to become the brute HH Holmes. His parents were devout Methodists and required complete obedience from him. As a child he was abused by his father. To escape the daily struggles at home, Mudgett sought refuge in the woods. It was common for him to see soldiers' remains and battle graves from the Civil War that officially ended in 1865. While in the woods, he performed dissections on animals, living and dead. This animal abuse was clearly her way of dealing with abuse from her father. The Civil War also desperately needed better medical care, such as doctors and pharmacists. Human skeletons that were typically considered sacred were now displayed in doctors' offices. This is where young Mudgett became truly fascinated with the human body. Mudgett's fascination with human anatomy along with his skill with the scalpel. ...... middle of the paper ...... I felt helpless. It is quite tenable that because he grew up in a wealthy family, the belief that those who had money held the power. It was this idea that fueled his insurance scams, not the issue of needing the money. Although he got rid of people during construction to preserve many of its mysteries, the result of saving a large amount of money promoted the idea that he held the power. It also helps implant his manipulation skills. When his lust for power and need for manipulation finally met, his killing spree began. In each course of action Mudgett pushed his limits, seeking more power until it led to a new action. Herman Mudgett was a very intelligent man. He was far from showing Neolithic actions, yet he is flawless in his presentation as a sociopath. Dr. HH Holmes was made, not born.