Alejo Carpentier
Swiss-Cuban author and musicologist

Born
December 26th, 1904
120 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1980
45 years ago — 75 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Cuba
Links & References
Born in Lausanne and raised in Havana, a prominent figure in Latin American literature emerged. Contributions to the genre of magical realism are significant, with the novel 'The Kingdom of This World' standing out as a pivotal work. Additionally, engaged in musical scholarship and journalism, offering insights into musicology from a Latin American perspective. The exploration of identity and history through literature defined much of the work. Moved to Paris in the 1920s, where interactions with various influential artists and intellectuals shaped literary style and thought. Returned to Cuba to support the revolutionary government and continued to produce influential works until death in 1980.
Published 'The Kingdom of This World'
Contributed to the development of magical realism
Worked as a musicologist and journalist
Other People Born on December 26th
Percy Hodge
Competed as a middle-distance runner representing England. Participated in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, finishing third in the 1500 meters event. Achieved national recognition for exceptional performances in various championships. Dominated the English championships in the early 1900s, contributing significantly to the sport's development in the country.
Continue ReadingPeter Hillary
Born in New Zealand, engaged in mountain climbing and charitable work. Climbed Mount Everest twice, first in 1990 and again in 1992 alongside his father, a renowned mountaineer. Contributed to the construction of schools and health centers in remote regions, focusing on improving education and healthcare. Actively participated in various expeditions and projects aimed at promoting adventure and environmental awareness.
Continue ReadingRené Bazin
This individual was a prominent French author and academic, recognized for contributions to literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a member of the Académie Française, this figure achieved prominence through a range of works that explored themes of nature, spirituality, and social issues. Works included 'L'Invasion' and 'Notre-Dame de Paris', which showcased narrative depth and literary skill. In addition to writing, served in academia, influencing a generation of writers and readers.
Continue ReadingTiit Rosenberg
Contributed significantly to the field of history, focusing on Estonian history and Baltic studies. Held academic positions at various universities, influencing the study and understanding of regional history. Engaged in research that illuminated Estonia's historical narratives, particularly during the 20th century. Published numerous articles and books that served as references in historiography.
Continue ReadingNobuhiko Matsunaka
Played in Nippon Professional Baseball from 1994 to 2013. Achieved significant success as a power hitter, mainly with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks. Recorded a standout season in 2004, during which won the Most Valuable Player award. Accumulated numerous accolades throughout the career, including multiple Golden Glove Awards and a home run title.
Continue ReadingCaroll Spinney
A prominent puppeteer and voice actor, contributed significantly to children's television. Created and performed beloved characters Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch on the show 'Sesame Street' for over four decades. Launched a successful career that combined puppetry with storytelling, making a lasting impact on educational television. Spinney's work involved elaborate puppeteering techniques and engaging vocal performances, earning recognition and awards in the industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 24th
David Kldiashvili
A prominent figure in Georgian literature, contributions included numerous works that reflected the social and political landscape of the period. Wrote plays exploring themes of national identity and cultural heritage. Worked to revive and promote Georgian theater through literary endeavors.
Continue ReadingMike Pinder
Pinder was a musician recognized for contributions to the progressive rock genre. He played the Mellotron with The Moody Blues, contributing to the band’s distinct sound. The group released several successful albums, particularly 'Days of Future Passed', which integrated orchestral elements with rock music, achieving significant commercial success. Pinder also co-wrote many of the band’s songs, showcasing songwriting skills throughout his career. After leaving the band, he pursued a solo career and released several albums, adding to his legacy in music.
Continue ReadingRolf Stommelen
A professional racing driver from Germany, participated in Formula One during the early 1970s. Competed for several teams, including the Iso-Marlboro F1 team. Achieved notable success in endurance racing as well, particularly in the 1973 24 Hours of Le Mans, where a strong performance contributed to the team’s standing. Also raced in various sports car events, gaining recognition within the motorsport community before an accident in 1983 that ended the racing career.
Continue ReadingThomas Fincke
A mathematician and physicist focused on mathematics and physics. Contributed to the fields with notable works. Authored 'Geometria' and 'Arithmetica', which were influential in mathematical education during the Renaissance. Had a significant impact on the mathematical community, especially in Denmark.
Continue ReadingJohnny Valentine
A professional wrestler with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s as a top competitor in various wrestling promotions. Notably held the NWA United States Heavyweight Championship and achieved recognition for a unique wrestling style that influenced future generations. Often participated in high-profile matches and rivalries, contributing to the evolution of professional wrestling entertainment. His work extended beyond the ring, participating in promotional events and influencing wrestling storylines.
Continue ReadingGuy Mairesse
Competed in endurance racing, particularly recognized for participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable success in the 1930s and 1940s driving for major brands. Held a strong reputation in French motorsport and was part of the early growth of racing events post-World War II.
Continue Reading