Angelica Kauffman
Painter of historical and mythological scenes
Born in Switzerland, this artist became a prominent figure in the 18th century. Active in London, she gained recognition as a leading painter of historical and mythological subjects. As one of the founding members of the Royal Academy in London, she made significant contributions to the art community. Her works showcased classical themes, often featuring prominent figures from history and mythology. Kauffman also operated a successful art studio and was known for her portraits, capturing the likeness of several notable individuals.
Co-founding the Royal Academy in London
Painting 'Cornelia, Mother of the Gracchi'
Other People Born on October 30th
Fred W. Friendly
Journalist and broadcaster for CBS News
Born
October 30th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1998 27 years ago — 82 years old
Worked in journalism and broadcasting, contributing significantly to the field of television news. Played a crucial role at CBS News as a producer for programs such as 'See It Now' and 'Face the Nation.' Focused on investigative reporting and brought critical issues to public attention during the 1950s and 1960s. Later served as President of PBS, promoting educational programming.
Continue ReadingAndré Chénier
Poet known for 'La Jeune Captive'
Born
October 30th, 1762 263 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1794 231 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1762, a Turkish-French poet and playwright, associated with the French Revolution. Developed a unique style blending classical and romantic traditions. His poetry often focused on themes of love, nature, and the human experience. Chénier's most celebrated work, 'La Jeune Captive,' reflected his deep emotional sensitivity. Arrested during the Reign of Terror, he was executed in 1794, shortly before his poems gained recognition posthumously. His influence on French literature is noted for paving the way for the Romantic movement in the 19th century.
Continue ReadingRagnar Granit
Neuroscientist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 30th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1991 34 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent neuroscientist, made significant contributions to the understanding of the physiology of the retina and the mechanisms of visual perception. Worked at various research institutions and held academic positions during a distinguished career. In 1967, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly for research on the function of the retina and the physiological role of different types of photoreceptors.
Continue ReadingMiguel Hernández
Spanish poet and playwright
Born
October 30th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1942 83 years ago — 31 years old
A prominent figure in 20th-century Spanish literature, focused on themes of love, nature, and social justice. His literary career was marked by the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War, during which many of his works were written. Hernández's poem collection, 'Perito en Lunas', showcased his mastery of metaphor and was published in 1937. His works faced censorship under the Franco regime, leading to imprisonment. Despite this, his poetry maintained a significant cultural legacy in Spain and beyond. His untimely death in 1942 occurred while he was incarcerated, but his influence continues to resonate in the Spanish literary canon.
Continue ReadingMichael Winner
Film director and screenwriter
Born
October 30th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
An English director, producer, and screenwriter, Winner gained recognition primarily for directing the film 'Death Wish' in 1974. He began his career in the British film industry and became a prominent figure in the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to 'Death Wish', Winner directed several other notable films including 'The Mechanic' and 'Bullseye'. He also produced and managed various television projects and worked as a newspaper columnist. His style often included elements of dark humor and controversy.
Continue ReadingEmperor Chūkyō of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Kamakura period
Born
October 30th, 1218 807 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1234 791 years ago — 15 years old
A Japanese emperor who reigned briefly in the early 13th century during the Kamakura period. Ascended to the throne in 1231 and reigned until 1232. Deposed by the powerful Kamakura shogunate, which sought to control imperial authority and governance. After his abdication, spent the remainder of life in seclusion in a temple. His short reign marked a time of political transition and the consolidation of military power in Japan.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 5th
Kanō Motonobu
Japanese painter, Kano school founder
Born
August 28th, 1476 549 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1559 466 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Japanese painter from the 16th century, he played a significant role in establishing the Kano school of painting. Active during the Muromachi period, he developed a style that combined traditional Japanese techniques with influences from Chinese painting. His works often featured landscapes, figures, and a variety of nature themes, embodying the aesthetics of the time. He served as an official painter to the shogunate and contributed to several important decorative projects within the imperial court. His legacy continues through the Kano school, which became a leading force in Japanese painting for centuries.
Continue ReadingAl Capp
American cartoonist of 'Li'l Abner'
Born
September 28th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1979 46 years ago — 70 years old
An author and illustrator from the United States, created the comic strip 'Li'l Abner' which ran from 1934 to 1977. This work satirized American culture and social issues through the adventures of a fictional Appalachian character and his quirky community. Capp's distinctive style and humor garnered widespread attention and became a staple in American comic art. In addition to his famous comic strip, he contributed to various political and social commentary through his artistic work, influencing the landscape of American cartoons.
Continue ReadingMaurice Utrillo
French painter of cityscapes
Born
December 26th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1955 70 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1883, a French painter specialized in scenes of urban life and landscapes. Created over 3,000 works, often depicting Montmartre in Paris. The use of vibrant colors and unique perspectives characterized the works, making them distinct within the art community. Utrillo, often inspired by the streets and buildings surrounding him, developed a personal style that combined Impressionism with elements of post-Impressionism. Struggled with mental health issues throughout life, which influenced both the personal and artistic journey. The artist's legacy continues to thrive through exhibitions and collections across major art institutions.
Continue ReadingGuy Lombardo
Violinist and bandleader, 'Auld Lang Syne'
Born
June 19th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Canada, became a prominent bandleader in the United States. Founded the Royal Canadians, which gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. Blended traditional pop and big band music, leading to a long career that included annual New Year's Eve broadcasts. Lombardo's orchestra was synonymous with New Year's celebrations for decades, performing 'Auld Lang Syne' as the clock struck midnight. He played for audiences in venues such as the Waldorf Astoria in New York City and recorded numerous albums throughout his career.
Continue ReadingLuis Cernuda
Spanish poet, critic, and author
Born
September 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent figure in the Spanish Generation of '27, this poet is recognized for contributions to Spanish literature through various poetic forms and critical essays. His work often explored themes of desire, exile, and identity. Important collections include 'Los placeres prohibidos' and 'La realidad y el deseo'. His literary career spanned several decades, marked by a commitment to blending traditional and avant-garde styles in poetry. Cernuda spent much of his life in exile due to the Spanish Civil War, residing in places such as Mexico and the United States, where his writings continued to evolve and gain recognition.
Continue ReadingEddie Harris
Jazz saxophonist and bandleader
Born
October 20th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1996 29 years ago — 62 years old
An American saxophonist contributed significantly to jazz music. Active from the 1960s, introduced innovative techniques such as the use of electronic effects on the saxophone. Gained recognition with the album 'Elevator to the Gallows' and the hit single 'Listen Here'. Collaborated with prominent artists and bands, influencing a generation of musicians. Continued performing and recording until the 1990s, showcasing versatility across jazz styles.
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