Alan Paton
South African author and activist

Born
January 11th, 1903
122 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1988
37 years ago — 85 years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
South Africa
Links & References
An influential author and political activist, contributed significantly to anti-apartheid movements in South Africa. Wrote the acclaimed novel "Cry, the Beloved Country," which highlighted the struggles of apartheid. Engaged in various social and political issues throughout his life, working to promote human rights and social justice. Served as the first president of the South African Liberal Party from its founding in 1953 until 1968.
Wrote the novel 'Cry, the Beloved Country'
Co-founded the South African Liberal Party
Other People Born on January 11th
Son Ye-jin
Born in 1982, this South Korean actress gained popularity through roles in romantic dramas and films. Achievements include leading roles in the television series 'Something in the Rain' and 'Crash Landing on You', which garnered high viewership ratings and critical acclaim. The actress also starred in films such as 'The Classic' and 'My Wife Got a Family', solidifying a reputation in the South Korean entertainment industry. Throughout her career, she has received multiple awards for acting excellence.
Continue ReadingThomas Hicks
Competed in the 1904 St. Louis Olympics, winning the marathon event. During the race, faced harsh weather conditions and endured a controversial finish. After completion, became recognized as the first American to win an Olympic marathon.
Continue ReadingLim Sung-jin
Born on January 11, 1999, a professional volleyball player from South Korea. Played as a member of the national team and competed at various international tournaments. Contributed significantly to the team's performance during competitions.
Continue ReadingCarroll Shelby
Achieved prominence as a race car driver and automotive designer. Competed in various race events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Developed the Shelby Cobra sports car, which became an iconic symbol of American automotive performance. Established Shelby American, a company that manufactures high-performance cars and parts. Collaborated with Ford to create the Mustang Cobra and the GT350, contributing significantly to the automotive industry.
Continue ReadingNick Solak
Played as an infielder in Major League Baseball (MLB) for teams such as the Tampa Bay Rays, Texas Rangers, and the Chicago White Sox. Originated from Woodridge, Illinois, showed strong performance at the University of Louisville before being drafted in the second round of the 2016 MLB Draft by the New York Yankees. Made his MLB debut in 2019 and contributed significantly during his tenure with each team.
Continue ReadingJasper Fforde
An English author, primarily engaged in writing literary fantasy novels. Gained recognition through the Thursday Next series, which blends elements of crime fiction and fantasy within classic literature. The work explores themes of literary theory and the relationship between fiction and reality. Additionally, authored the Nursery Crime series, featuring detective tales set in a world of nursery rhymes, adding a unique twist to traditional storytelling. Fforde's writing is characterized by wit, wordplay, and innovative narrative techniques, attracting a dedicated readership.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 12th
Metastasio
A prominent poet and composer, contributed significantly to the operatic form in the 18th century. Served as the court poet for the Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI and worked in Vienna. His libretti were widely set to music by numerous composers, influencing the development of opera seria. Despite a modest background, achieved considerable success and recognition in the realms of music and literature through innovative texts that shaped operatic conventions.
Continue ReadingAdoniram Judson
A significant figure in American Christianity, contributed to the missionary movement in Burma. Arrived in Burma in 1813 and dedicated efforts toward evangelism and translation. Developed the first complete Burmese-English dictionary and helped translate the Bible into Burmese, facilitating the spread of Christianity and helping to establish a Burmese church. Engaged in extensive linguistic studies, influencing the understanding of Burmese culture and language.
Continue ReadingJoe Louis
A professional boxer and wrestler gained international fame as a heavyweight champion. Held the world heavyweight boxing title from 1937 to 1949, defending it 25 times, a record at the time. Became a significant figure in sports history, transcending athletics to influence social issues during his career. Fought in several iconic bouts, most notably defeating Max Schmeling in 1938, a match symbolizing the racial tensions of the era. Transitioned to wrestling later in his career, continuing to engage audiences nationwide until retirement.
Continue ReadingMohammad Al Gaz
A prominent Emirati politician and diplomat, held key positions within the United Arab Emirates government. Served as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and contributed to international diplomacy efforts, shaping UAE's foreign policy. Played a significant role in enhancing diplomatic relations with various countries and participated in numerous high-level meetings and initiatives. Engaged in discussions on regional security and development issues, further solidifying the UAE's presence on the global stage.
Continue ReadingArthur Freed
Worked extensively in the film industry as a songwriter and producer. Contributed to several iconic musicals during the mid-20th century. Pioneered the integration of songs into the narrative of films, significantly influencing the genre. The creation of 'Singin' in the Rain' remains a hallmark of musical cinema. Developed a signature style that combined engaging storytelling with unforgettable melodies.
Continue ReadingGeorge Wald
Accomplished neurologist and academic contributed significantly to the field of vision and photochemistry. Conducted groundbreaking research on the biochemical processes of vision, particularly the role of rhodopsin in the retinal structure. Served on the faculty at Harvard University, influencing generations of students and researchers. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1967 for discoveries related to the function of the retina.
Continue Reading