Abdelwahab Meddeb
Tunisian-French author and poet
Born
1946
80 years ago
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
France
Links & References
An author, poet, and scholar engaged with themes of identity, culture, and the modern Arab world. Received education in Tunisia and France, enriching the literary landscape with a distinctive voice. Contributed significantly to literature with a rich blend of prose and poetry, exploring the complexities of the Mediterranean socio-political climate. Authored works in both French and Arabic, highlighting the nuances of intercultural dialogue. Selected works include the novel 'Talismano' and contributions to various literary journals and anthologies.
Published 'Talismano' in 1997
Contributed scholarly essays on Arab literature
Other People Who Died on November 5th
Robert Maxwell
Publisher and politician with a shipbuilding career
Born
June 10th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old
Born in Czechoslovakia, served in the British Army during World War II. Established a successful publishing empire, notably with Pergamon Press. Engaged in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for the Labour Party. Acquired the Mirror Group Newspapers, overseeing significant operations in the UK media landscape. Controversially involved in financial dealings, faced scrutiny for business practices before his death in 1991.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Palmer
New Zealand Prime Minister, legal reformer
Born
April 21st, 1942 84 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2020 5 years ago — 78 years old
A notable figure in New Zealand's political landscape, served as the 33rd Prime Minister from 1989 to 1990. Prior to the premiership, held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Justice and Deputy Prime Minister. Instrumental in implementing constitutional reforms and modernizing legal frameworks. After leaving politics, contributed to academia and legal scholarship, focusing on constitutional law and governance.
Continue ReadingLouis Alter
American musician and songwriter of 'Room 504'
Born
June 18th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1980 45 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1902, a prominent figure in American music, particularly in the genre of popular songwriting. Contributed significantly to the music scene during the mid-20th century. Worked extensively as a composer and pianist, creating memorable songs that resonate with audiences. Collaborated with various artists and musicians, enhancing the landscape of popular music of the time.
Continue ReadingJacques d'Adelswärd-Fersen
French author and poet known for poetry
Born
February 20th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1923 102 years ago — 43 years old
Born in France, one of the significant figures in early 20th-century literature. Published various works including poetry that explored themes of beauty and desire. His writings were marked by a lyrical style and emotional depth, influencing later generations of poets. Also known for his life experiences, which included time spent in exile due to his sexual orientation. His literary contributions continued to be a point of interest for scholars examining queerness in literature and the arts.
Continue ReadingAdolf Brudes
Polish-German racing driver
Born
October 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1986 39 years ago — 87 years old
Competed in various European racing events during the early 20th century. Achieved notable success in the European Championship for Drivers. Participated in multiple races, showcasing driving talent and technical skill.
Continue ReadingAlexandre de Rhodes
French missionary and linguist
Born
March 15th, 1591 435 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1660 365 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a Jesuit missionary in Vietnam, where significant contributions to the introduction and establishment of the Latin alphabet for the Vietnamese language occurred. Published the first Vietnamese dictionary and a grammar book, which laid the foundation for modern Vietnamese orthography. Worked extensively with Vietnamese language and culture, deeply influencing the development of written Vietnamese.
Continue Reading