Who are the greatest magicians of all time, and what makes them so legendary?

Magic is an art form that has been practiced for centuries, and over the years, some performers have become legendary for their incredible acts and illusions. Here are the top 10 greatest magicians of all time:

1. Harry Houdini: Known as the 'King of Handcuffs,' Houdini is famous for his death-defying escape acts, which included freeing himself from straitjackets and underwater chambers.
2. Dai Vernon: Known as the 'Professor,' Vernon was a master of sleight of hand and was revered by fellow magicians for his skill and creativity.
3. David Copperfield: One of the most recognizable magicians in modern times, Copperfield is famous for his large-scale illusions, such as making the Statue of Liberty disappear and walking through the Great Wall of China.
4. David Blaine: Known for his endurance stunts, Blaine has performed numerous death-defying feats, such as being buried alive and encased in a block of ice.
5. Penn & Teller: This duo is known for their irreverent and unconventional approach to magic, incorporating elements of comedy and audience participation into their acts.
6. Maskelyne and Devant: This British duo were pioneers in the field of magic and helped popularize it as a legitimate form of entertainment.
7. The Great Lafayette: This Scottish magician was known for his lavish stage shows and his tragic death during a performance, in which his set caught fire.
8. Channing Pollock: This American magician was known for his elegant and sophisticated stage presence, as well as his skill with manipulating doves.
9. Harry Blackstone Sr.: This American magician was known for his elaborate stage shows, which included levitation and vanishing acts.
10. Orson Welles: Although primarily known as a filmmaker, Welles was also an accomplished magician and performed on numerous occasions throughout his life.

What makes these magicians so legendary is their skill, creativity, and ability to captivate audiences with their acts. Whether it's death-defying stunts, elegant illusions, or irreverent humor, these performers have left a lasting impact on the art of magic.