Antoine Houdar de la Motte

French author and playwright

Antoine Houdar de la Motte - French author and playwright
Born

January 18th, 1672
353 years ago

Died

December 26th, 1731
293 years ago — 59 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent figure in 17th-century French literature, contributed significantly to the development of drama and poetry. Best remembered for rewriting Homer's 'Iliad' into a modern French verse, aimed at making classical works more accessible. Authored 'Renaud' and 'Don Quichotte', showcasing advancements in the literary style of the time. Participated in the formation of the French Academy, which aimed to standardize and promote the French language and literature.

Wrote a modern adaptation of 'Iliad'

Authored 'Renaud'

Contributed to 'Don Quichotte'

Participated in the founding of the French Academy

Other People Born on January 18th

Gianfranco Brancatelli

Race car driver, known for endurance racing
Born
January 18th, 1950 75 years ago

This individual was an accomplished race car driver from Italy. He competed in various endurance racing events during the late 20th century. Secured multiple wins in the FIA World Endurance Championship and had notable participation in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His career in motorsport spanned several decades, contributing to the development of racing in Italy and achieving recognition within the sport.

Continue Reading

Max Fried

Baseball player, World Series Champion
Born
January 18th, 1994 31 years ago

Born in 1994, this baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 2017 with the Atlanta Braves. Contributed significantly to the Braves' success during the 2020 and 2021 seasons, including winning the World Series in 2021. Achieved strong individual performance statistics, becoming a key player for the team.

Continue Reading

John Boorman

Film director, producer, screenwriter
Born
January 18th, 1933 92 years ago

A British director, producer, and screenwriter played a significant role in the film industry from the 1960s onwards. He gained prominence with the release of the film 'Deliverance' in 1972, which showcased his skill in weaving intense narratives. Other notable works include 'Excalibur' (1981), a retelling of the Arthurian legend, and 'Hope and Glory' (1987), which received multiple Academy Award nominations. He established a reputation for his unique visual style and thematic depth, often exploring the complexities of human nature and societal issues.

Continue Reading

Angelique Kerber

Professional tennis player and Grand Slam champion
Born
January 18th, 1988 37 years ago

Born in 1988, a professional tennis player achieved significant success on the WTA tour. Captured three Grand Slam titles, including the Australian Open, US Open, and Wimbledon. Reached the world No. 1 ranking in January 2017, becoming the first German woman to hold the top position since Steffi Graf. Contributed to Germany's Fed Cup team with multiple victories. Notable for strong baseline play and incredible defensive skills.

Continue Reading

Dave Bautista

Wrestler and actor, starred in Guardians of the Galaxy
Born
January 18th, 1969 56 years ago

Bautista began his career in professional wrestling, making a name in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) where he achieved significant success. He won the World Heavyweight Championship four times and was part of the iconic tag team Evolution. Transitioning to acting, Bautista gained recognition for his role as Drax the Destroyer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, particularly in 'Guardians of the Galaxy' and its sequels. He also appeared in films like 'Blade Runner 2049' and 'Spectre'. Bautista’s mixed martial arts background complements his wrestling career, showcasing his athletic prowess.

Continue Reading

Perro Aguayo

Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
January 18th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 73 years old

Began wrestling in the early 1960s and gained prominence in lucha libre, wrestling primarily in Mexico. Developed a distinctive style and was recognized for passionate performances and charismatic personality. Held multiple championships throughout career, including the NWA World Lightweight Championship and the CMLL World Heavyweight Championship. Influenced many future wrestlers and contributed to the growth of lucha libre internationally. Became a successful promoter in Mexico after retirement, organizing significant wrestling events.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 26th

Ina Boudier-Bakker

Dutch author known for literary works
Born
1875 150 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1966 58 years ago — 91 years old

An author from the Netherlands, this individual contributed significantly to Dutch literature in the early 20th century. The literary career commenced with short stories and novels that often explored themes of everyday life and social issues. Notable works included 'The Silent Woman' and 'The Old House'. Many writings reflected strong emotional depth and vivid characterizations, showcasing the complexities of human relationships. This author also engaged in the literary community through various roles, including journalism and editing, further influencing Dutch culture. The literary contributions continued to be celebrated long after passing in 1966.

Continue Reading

Francis Caulfeild

2nd Earl of Charlemont, Irish Politician
Born
January 3rd, 1775 250 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1863 161 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 2nd Earl of Charlemont and held a prominent position in Irish politics during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Played a key role in advocating for parliamentary reform and contributed to the establishment of the Volunteer Movement, which aimed to strengthen Irish self-governance. Engaged in various social and political issues of the time and was involved in the establishment of the Royal Irish Academy.

Continue Reading

Herbert Otto Gille

German general during World War II
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1966 58 years ago — 69 years old

A German general served during World War II, leading key military operations on the Eastern and Western fronts. Gille played significant roles in battles including the Siege of Leningrad and the defense of Germany during the Allied invasion. His strategic decisions were noted for both their effectiveness and controversy. Post-war, Gille was captured and later released.

Continue Reading

Dorothy Bliss

Invertebrate Zoologist & Researcher
Born
February 13th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1987 37 years ago — 71 years old

An American invertebrate zoologist specialized in the study of various marine species. Conducted significant research on the ecology and biology of marine invertebrates. Contributed to the understanding of coral reef ecosystems and the role of invertebrates within those habitats. Served in various academic and research institutions, mentoring upcoming scientists in the field.

Continue Reading

Ted Ditchburn

English footballer and coach
Born
October 24th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 19 years ago — 84 years old

A professional footballer and manager. Played as a goalkeeper and spent the majority of his playing career at Tottenham Hotspur from 1939 to 1959. Won the FA Cup in 1961 with Tottenham and later served as a coach. Managed several clubs, including a short stint at Wycombe Wanderers.

Continue Reading

Jack Benny

Actor and comedian of radio and television
Born
February 14th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1974 50 years ago — 80 years old

An actor and producer, he gained fame through radio, television, and film. A career spanning several decades included a successful radio show, 'The Jack Benny Program,' which aired from 1932 to 1955. The show transitioned to television where it continued to entertain audiences until 1965. Known for a classic comedic persona characterized by a distinct timing, he was widely regarded for his contributions to the entertainment industry. Benny also appeared in films such as 'To Be or Not to Be' and 'The Horn Blows at Midnight.' His work earned him multiple awards, including an Emmy Award for Best Comedy Series.

Continue Reading