Abraham Goldfaden

Russian playwright and actor

Abraham Goldfaden - Russian playwright and actor
Born

1840
185 years ago

Died

January 9th, 1908
117 years ago — 68 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

Russia

Links & References

A significant figure in Yiddish theater, played a crucial role in its development in the late 19th century. Founded the first professional Yiddish theater in Romania, which helped to popularize the genre. Authored several plays that remain influential in Yiddish literature, including 'Bar Kochba.' Goldfaden's work reflected the cultural and social issues of Jewish communities, and he often infused dramatic narratives with humor and poignancy.

Founded the first professional Yiddish theater

Authored the play 'Bar Kochba'

Other People Who Died on January 9th

Wen Tianxiang

Chinese general and scholar from the Song dynasty
Born
1236 789 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1283 742 years ago — 47 years old

A general and scholar during the Song dynasty, contributed to the resistance against the Mongol invasions. Played a significant role in the defense of the Southern Song as a commander. Captured and executed, he composed the famous poem "Song of Righteousness" expressing loyalty and patriotism. His legacy as a symbol of national pride persists in Chinese culture.

Continue Reading

Wayne Munn

American Football Player and Wrestler
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1931 94 years ago — 35 years old

Played American football as a tackle and gained prominence in professional wrestling. Achieved notable success in both sports during the early 20th century. Competed at the collegiate level before transitioning to a professional career. Gained recognition for contributions to wrestling as a champion and in various wrestling promotions. His athletic career spanned multiple decades, making significant contributions to both the realms of football and wrestling.

Continue Reading

Josep Maria Castellet

Spanish poet and literary critic
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent figure in Spanish literature, specialized in poetry and literary criticism. Contributed significantly to contemporary Catalan culture and literature. Authored several poetry collections and critical essays, emphasizing the importance of language and identity. Served as an influential editor, fostering the work of emerging writers. Participated in cultural and literary movements, focusing on the Catalan language and its preservation.

Continue Reading

Countee Cullen

American poet and playwright
Born
May 30th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1946 79 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent figure during the Harlem Renaissance, the individual contributed significantly to American literature through poetry and plays. The work often explored themes of race, identity, and society, with a notable emphasis on African American experiences. Notable poetry collections include 'Color' and 'Copper Sun'. The individual also wrote plays that were performed in New York, enriching the cultural fabric of the era. In addition to literary achievements, involvement in various artistic and social circles characterized this person's career, fostering connections among contemporary thinkers and artists.

Continue Reading

Imi Lichtenfeld

Martial artist, creator of Krav Maga
Born
May 26th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1998 27 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Hungary, a martial artist, boxer, and gymnast developed Krav Maga, a self-defense system integrating techniques from various martial arts and boxing. Emigrated to Israel and became involved in training military and law enforcement personnel. The system emphasized practical defense against real-world threats, contributing to its widespread adoption across the globe. Established a training center in Israel, further promoting the discipline. His work laid a foundation for the evolution of modern self-defense.

Continue Reading

Caroline Herschel

German-English astronomer & comet discoverer
Born
March 16th, 1750 275 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1848 177 years ago — 97 years old

An astronomer, contributed significantly to the field of astronomy during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Discovered several comets, with the most notable being the comet 35P/Herschel-Rigollet. Collaborated with her brother William Herschel, assisting in the construction of telescopes and making observations. Published catalogues of stars and nebulae, improving the cataloging and classification of celestial objects. Became the first woman to receive a salary as a scientist, recognized for her contributions to the field.

Continue Reading