J. K. Rowling

The Creation of Harry Potter Timeline

This timeline details the key moments in the conception, writing, and early publication of the Harry Potter series.

The Idea on a Train

1990

The idea for Harry Potter came to Rowling during a delayed train journey from Manchester to London in 1990. She has stated that the character of Harry Potter simply 'walked into her head.'

Writing in Portugal and Edinburgh

1990-1995

Rowling moved to Porto, Portugal, to teach English as a foreign language. She continued to develop the Harry Potter universe and began writing "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone". After marrying and having a daughter, Jessica, she returned to Edinburgh, Scotland, following her divorce. Living on state benefits, she continued writing in cafes.

Completion of the First Book

1995

Rowling completed the manuscript for "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" (later renamed "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" in the US).

Literary Agent and Publication

1996

Christopher Little Literary Agency agreed to represent Rowling, and the manuscript was submitted to several publishers. Bloomsbury eventually accepted the book, offering an advance of £2,500.

Publication of "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone"

June 26, 1997

"Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" was published in the United Kingdom to immediate critical acclaim and commercial success. It marked the beginning of a global phenomenon.