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Why did James McNeill Whistler go bankrupt after winning the libel trial against John Ruskin?

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Although James McNeill Whistler won his libel suit against John Ruskin in 1878, he was awarded only a farthing in damages—the smallest coin of the realm—and was not granted legal costs.12

Because he was responsible for paying his own substantial legal fees, the financial burden of the trial forced him into bankruptcy in 1879. As a result of this financial collapse, Whistler was compelled to vacate his home, the White House in Chelsea, and eventually relocate to Venice.12