Who is the most mysterious man to have ever lived?

 Determining the "most mysterious man" is subjective and depends on various factors, including the criteria used for evaluation and individual perspectives. However, one historical figure often considered mysterious due to the lack of concrete information about his life is the ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras.

Pythagoras (circa 570–495 BCE) was a mathematician and philosopher known for the Pythagorean theorem and his contributions to geometry and number theory. While he made significant contributions to mathematics, the details of his life are shrouded in legend and mystery.

Key aspects contributing to the mysterious aura surrounding Pythagoras include:

1. **Lack of Writings:** Pythagoras is credited with many mathematical and philosophical ideas, but no writings directly attributed to him have survived. Most of what is known about Pythagoras comes from later sources, and the line between historical fact and myth is blurred.

2. **Secretive Society:** Pythagoras founded a religious and philosophical movement known as the Pythagorean Brotherhood. The inner workings of this society were kept secret, and members were bound by strict rules of silence. This secrecy has contributed to the mystique surrounding Pythagoras and his teachings.

3. **Numerology and Mysticism:** Pythagoras and his followers were known for their interest in numerology and the mystical properties of numbers. The association of certain numerical ratios with cosmic significance added to the perception of Pythagoras as a mystical figure.

4. **Religious Influence:** Pythagoras' teachings included religious and ethical components, and he was viewed almost as a semi-divine figure by some of his followers. The blending of mathematics, philosophy, and religious elements contributes to the enigmatic nature of his persona.

While Pythagoras is one example, there are many historical figures considered mysterious for various reasons. The level of mystery often depends on the availability of historical records, the cultural context, and the nature of the individual's contributions to knowledge and society.