Alan Jay Lerner
Songwriter and composer of musicals
A prominent American songwriter and librettist, contributed significantly to the world of musical theater. Collaborated with composer Frederick Loewe, creating enduring works that are celebrated for their melodies and lyrics. Famous works include 'My Fair Lady', 'Camelot', and 'Brigadoon'. The collaboration established a standard for musical storytelling. Received numerous accolades throughout a prolific career in theater, including Tony Awards and an Academy Award.
Wrote the musical 'My Fair Lady'
Wrote the musical 'Camelot'
Wrote the musical 'Brigadoon'
Won multiple Tony Awards
Other People Born on August 31st
George Hervey
English soldier and politician
Born
August 31st, 1721 304 years ago
Died
1775 250 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1721, a significant military figure and politician held the title of 2nd Earl of Bristol. Served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing various affairs and governance during a notable period. Involved in military campaigns and became an influential figure in English aristocracy. His tenure in Ireland included efforts to address complex political and social issues of the time.
Continue ReadingCaligula
Roman Emperor and tyrant
Born
August 31st, 12 2013 years ago
Died
January 24th, 41 1984 years ago — 28 years old
Ascended to the imperial throne in 37 AD and ruled until assassination in 41 AD. His reign was marked by extravagant spending and a series of controversial political decisions. Initiated significant construction projects, including the expansion of the imperial palace. Under his rule, Rome witnessed numerous public spectacles and games, often reflecting his personal whims and desires. His leadership style became characterized by brutality and unorthodox behavior, leading to widespread discontent among the Senate and military.
Continue ReadingSanford Meisner
Acting teacher, developed Meisner technique
Born
August 31st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1997 28 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor and acting coach, played a pivotal role in the development of the Meisner Technique, a widely influential method of acting that emphasizes emotional authenticity and improvisation. Founded the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City, which became a renowned institution for training actors. Taught numerous successful actors and left a legacy that continues to shape acting education.
Continue ReadingJohnny Wactor
American actor known for daytime role
Born
August 31st, 1986 39 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2024 1 years ago — 37 years old
An American actor recognized for performances in daytime television. Appeared as Brando Corbin on the soap opera 'General Hospital', earning attention for a prominent storyline. Also involved in other television projects and films, contributing to the entertainment industry through both scripted and unscripted roles.
Continue ReadingQueen Rania of Jordan
Queen and advocate for education reform
Born
August 31st, 1970 55 years ago
Born in 1970, the Queen holds a degree in Business Administration. Engaged in various educational initiatives, she established the Jordan River Foundation, focusing on community empowerment and education. Advocating for global education, she has worked with UNICEF and launched the 'The Queen Rania Teacher Academy' to improve teaching standards and professionalism in Jordan. The Queen participates in numerous forums discussing the importance of education and women's rights. Her royal duties also include supporting various charitable initiatives that promote social development.
Continue ReadingRichard Basehart
American actor in 'Moby Dick'
Born
August 31st, 1914 111 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1984 41 years ago — 70 years old
An American actor began career in the 1940s and gained prominence through performances in film and television. Starred in the classic film 'Moby Dick' as Captain Ahab and received acclaim for the role. Appeared in the television series 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea' as Admiral Harriman Nelson, becoming a recognizable figure in sci-fi television. Worked with notable directors and actors throughout career, contributing to significant productions in various genres.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 14th
G. K. Chesterton
Essayist and playwright
Born
May 29th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1936 89 years ago — 62 years old
An English essayist, poet, and playwright contributed significantly to early 20th-century literature. Worked as a journalist, providing cultural criticism and commentary through various publications. Developed a distinctive writing style characterized by wit and paradox. Achieved recognition for creating the detective character Father Brown, who featured in numerous short stories and novels. Published influential works, including 'Orthodoxy' and 'The Everlasting Man', which discussed topics of faith and philosophy. Participated actively in debates on social issues and contributed to discussions on religion, politics, and art.
Continue ReadingJerome K. Jerome
Author and playwright of 'Three Men in a Boat'
Born
May 2nd, 1859 166 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1927 98 years ago — 68 years old
An English author and playwright contributed significantly to comedic literature in the late 19th century. The work 'Three Men in a Boat', published in 1889, achieved widespread popularity for its humor and vivid depiction of a boating holiday on the Thames. Jerome's writing often blended humor with social commentary, capturing the essence of his time. Alongside humor, he penned plays and essays, establishing a reputation as a versatile writer. Jerome's influence extended to later comedic writers, and his notable style garnered lasting recognition in English literature.
Continue ReadingRobin Olds
General and fighter pilot, WWII veteran
Born
July 14th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2007 18 years ago — 84 years old
A general and fighter pilot, served in the United States Air Force. Played a pivotal role during World War II and the Vietnam War. Commanded the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing and significantly contributed to air combat strategies. Participated in several notable missions, including the engagement known as the 'Wild Weasel' operations that supported bombing campaigns. Instrumental in shaping air power tactics and developing pilot training programs.
Continue ReadingSalvatore Quasimodo
Italian poet and Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1968 57 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1901, a prominent Italian poet and novelist, the individual contributed significantly to the literary landscape of the 20th century. The work often addressed themes of existentialism and human suffering, reflecting the turmoil of the era. The poet was associated with the Hermetic movement, emphasizing a dense and symbolic style. In 1959, the individual received the Nobel Prize in Literature for the lyrical beauty of poetry, which articulated the human experience amidst the aftermath of World War II. Several collections, including 'Oboe Sommerso,' showcased a profound engagement with the complexity of life and nature, solidifying the individual's position within modern Italian literature.
Continue ReadingGünther von Schwarzburg
German king during the 14th century
Born
1304 721 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1349 676 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as king from 1340 until death in 1349. His reign was marked by political conflicts and struggles for power among various factions in Germany. Engaged in disputes with local nobility and sought to strengthen royal authority. Played a significant role in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during a turbulent period. His death led to a shift in the balance of power.
Continue ReadingEmmeline Pankhurst
Political activist and suffragist leader
Born
July 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1928 97 years ago — 69 years old
A political activist dedicated to women's suffrage in the United Kingdom. Founded the Women's Social and Political Union in 1903, advocating for women's right to vote. Organized demonstrations and campaigns, utilizing militant tactics to draw attention to the cause. Pankhurst was imprisoned several times for her activities. Her efforts contributed significantly to women achieving the right to vote in 1918, largely credited as a pivotal moment in British history.
Continue Reading