The Oxford dictionary of Nicknames has a depth and breadth that is almost stunning. It covers politicians, kings, queens, presidential rulers, politicians, soldiers, religious figures, musicians (of all types) controversial figures, actors, actresses, cities, institutions both famous and otherwise, businessmen and women, publications, criminals, sports teams, etc., etc. Some of the nicknames are still well-known, and others have fallen into relative obscurity. There's George R. Kelly, who became known as Machine Gun Kelly. Apparently his wife bought him his first machine gun (hey? Who said ...
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