Anita Brookner
English novelist and art historian
English novelist and art historian
A prolific novelist and art historian, contributed significantly to literature and art criticism. Authored several novels, with notable works including 'Hotel du Lac', which won the Booker Prize in 1984. Wrote extensively on art history, analyzing the works of prominent artists and carrying out detailed critiques in various publications. Served as a professor of art history at the Courtauld Institute of Art, where teachings encompassed modern French art and its influences. The ability to intertwine personal experience with broader concepts in literature marked the writing style.
Won the Booker Prize for 'Hotel du Lac'
Authored over 20 novels
Served as art history professor at Courtauld Institute
Achieved significant success in motorcycle racing, competing primarily in the MotoGP World Championship. Claimed two Moto2 World Championships in 2015 and 2016 while racing for Ajo Motorsport. Transitioned to the premier class with notable performances, securing multiple podium finishes. Represented various teams including Tech3 and KTM, demonstrating consistency and skill on a global stage. Continues to compete at high levels in international motorcycle racing events.
Continue ReadingA prominent figure in French music, recognized for contributions to the chanson genre. Initiated a musical career in the 1950s, often incorporating poetic lyrics reflecting personal and social themes. Gained popularity through hits like 'L'eau vive,' which showcased mastery in songwriting and sensitivity in vocal delivery. Throughout the career, collaborated with various artists and participated in numerous musical festivals, enhancing the French music scene. Continued to write and perform until the end of life, inspiring new generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingA YouTuber gained recognition for innovative beauty videos and unique fashion experiments. Created content that combined humor and detailed product reviews, leading to a substantial following. Developed a distinct brand through engaging with viewers on various beauty topics, including makeup transformations and style challenges. Collaborated with numerous brands and contributed to trends within the beauty community. Transitioned into vlogging, sharing insights into personal life and experiences.
Continue ReadingAn Australian Rules footballer, played for the Richmond Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). The player had a significant career, contributing to the team's defensive lineup and showcasing skills as a key defender. Achievements include leading the team to multiple finals series and successfully winning the AFL Premiership in 2017. Earned accolades for exceptional performance in both regular seasons and finals.
Continue ReadingA prominent figure in the Franciscan movement, founded the Order of Poor Ladies, known as the Poor Clares, in 1212. Inspired by the teachings of Francis of Assisi, devoted life to poverty and service. Established a monastic community in San Damiano, which emphasized a simple lifestyle and prayer. Canonized as a saint in 1255, recognized for her deep spirituality and commitment to the Franciscan ideals.
Continue ReadingPlayed professional ice hockey in the NHL. Began career with the Washington Capitals. Contributed to the team winning the President's Trophy. Played a key role as a defenseman for the Vegas Golden Knights during their inaugural season, helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Final. Later joined the Vancouver Canucks, bringing experience and skill to the team's defensive lineup.
Continue ReadingA prominent figure in 18th-century French literature, contributed significantly to literary criticism and the evolution of French literature. Founded the 'L'Année littéraire', which provided critical assessments of contemporary works and authors. Engaged in notable disputes with other literary figures, particularly with the philosopher Voltaire. Advocated for rigorous standards in literary evaluation and commentary, influencing future generations of critics and writers.
Continue ReadingBorn into slavery, dedicated life to abolishing it and aiding fellow enslaved people in escaping to freedom. Played a critical role as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, guiding numerous individuals to safety. Actively participated in the women's suffrage movement post-Civil War. Served as a nurse, spy, and cook during the Civil War, demonstrating versatility in efforts for equality and freedom.
Continue ReadingA Flemish physician and botanist, this figure contributed significantly to botanical science in the 16th century. The compilation of works included 'Cruydeboeck', a comprehensive herbal text that cataloged various plants and their medicinal uses. Herbal knowledge during this period was limited, and this work synthesized ideas from earlier scholars and his own observations. The text was widely circulated in Europe and influenced herbal medicine and botany for generations. Additionally, the figure’s insights into plant classification contributed to the later development of botanical nomenclature.
Continue ReadingThirteenth Earl of Oxford served as an English commander and politician during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Held the title of Lord High Constable of England, a position of significant authority in the monarchy. Played a crucial role in the Wars of the Roses, aligning with the Yorkists and later supporting Henry VII. His contributions were pivotal in shaping the political landscape of England during a time of civil unrest.
Continue ReadingThis individual was an American chemist and pharmacist who was instrumental in developing the Scoville scale, a measurement used to quantify the heat of peppers and other spicy foods. The scale provides a standardized method for assessing spiciness based on the concentration of capsaicin, the compound responsible for heat. This work became a significant reference for both culinary and agricultural practices. In addition to the Scoville scale, contributions included research in the field of flavor chemistry and advancements in food safety. Published extensive research that contributed to the understanding of food composition and its effects.
Continue ReadingA physicist and academic from the Netherlands, contributions focused on optics and the development of phase contrast microscopy. This innovation allowed for the study of transparent biological specimens without fixation or staining, enhancing microscopy techniques. The work led to recognition and receiving the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1953 for the invention of the phase contrast microscope, which significantly advanced biological and medical research.
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