Antti Aarne

Finnish historian, scholar of folklore

Antti Aarne - Finnish historian, scholar of folklore
Born

December 5th, 1867
157 years ago

Died

February 2nd, 1925
100 years ago — 57 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Finland

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the field of folklore studies. Developed the Aarne-Thompson classification system for folktales, which served as the foundation for categorizing and analyzing folk narratives. Published numerous articles and books on Finnish folklore, making primary sources more accessible to scholars and the public. His work laid the groundwork for future research in comparative folklore and mythology.

Developed the Aarne-Thompson classification system

Published influential works on Finnish folklore

Other People Born on December 5th

Fritz Lang

Film director of Metropolis and M
Born
December 5th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1976 49 years ago — 85 years old

Austrian-American director, producer, and screenwriter played a significant role in the development of film noir and science fiction. Early career began in Germany, where notable works included 'Metropolis' (1927), a pioneering science fiction film, and 'M' (1931), a landmark psychological thriller. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s, continuing to influence the cinematic landscape with films like 'Fury' (1936) and 'You Only Live Once' (1937). His innovative storytelling and visual style left a lasting impact on the film industry.

Continue Reading

Norishige Kanai

Japanese astronaut and doctor
Born
December 5th, 1976 48 years ago

Graduated from the University of Tokyo with a medical degree. Worked as an physician in Japan prior to joining JAXA. Participated in the ISS Expedition 55/56 mission from December 2017 to June 2018. Conducted various scientific experiments and contributed to advancing medical research in a microgravity environment.

Continue Reading

Arik Benado

Israeli footballer; Maccabi Tel Aviv
Born
December 5th, 1973 51 years ago

Played as a center-back in Israeli football, with a professional career spanning from 1990 to 2008. Primarily associated with Maccabi Tel Aviv, contributed to the club's success in domestic leagues and cup competitions. Additionally represented the Israel national team, earning numerous caps during his international career. Concluded playing career focusing on youth coaching and team management.

Continue Reading

Robert Sobukwe

South African politician and activist
Born
December 5th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1924, played a significant role in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement. Initially a member of the African National Congress, later founded the Pan Africanist Congress in 1959. Advocated for African nationalism and land reform, opposing the apartheid government's racial policies. Arrested in 1960 following the Sharpeville massacre and subjected to political detention without trial. Maintained political activism despite government restrictions and censorship until his death in 1978.

Continue Reading

Willibald Pirckheimer

German lawyer and Renaissance author
Born
December 5th, 1470 554 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1530 494 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure of the German Renaissance, extensively contributed to humanist literature. Engaged in legal practice while also serving as a patron of the arts. Collaborated with notable artists of the period, influencing the cultural landscape. Authored letters and treatises that showcased classical learning and the significance of education. Played a vital role in the promotion of humanist thought in Germany.

Continue Reading

John Altman

English composer and conductor
Born
December 5th, 1949 75 years ago

Composer and conductor contributed significantly to the music scene in the UK. Altman provided scores for numerous television shows and films, with notable work on the soundtracks for 'The Comic Strip Presents' and 'Four Weddings and a Funeral'. In addition to work in film and television, he composed for various orchestras and ensembles, showcasing a range of styles. Leadership roles included serving as a conductor for major orchestras, enhancing the performance of classical music across the UK.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 2nd

Callistratus of Georgia

Georgian Patriarch and leader
Born
1866 159 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1952 73 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church from 1944 until death in 1952. Played a crucial role in the post-World War II revival of the church in Georgia. Advocated for the rights of Christians under Soviet rule, leading efforts to restore religious practices and church properties. Presided over significant religious events and was instrumental in the preservation of Georgian religious heritage during a time of communist repression.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Composer of sacred choral music
Born
1525 500 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1594 431 years ago — 69 years old

An Italian composer of the Renaissance period, focused on sacred music. Established a style that influenced the development of choral music. Served as the music director at various churches in Italy and educated many students in composition. The body of work includes various masses, motets, and hymns, with a clear focus on polyphonic texture and clarity of text. Contributed to the formulation of the canon of church music and is often associated with the development of the Roman School of composition.

Continue Reading

Donald Pleasence

Actor in Halloween and The Great Escape
Born
October 5th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1995 30 years ago — 75 years old

An accomplished actor, his career spanned several decades, beginning in the theater before transitioning to film and television. Featured in multiple genres, he gained prominence for roles that showcased his ability to portray complex characters. Played Dr. Sam Loomis in the Halloween horror film series and appeared as the iconic character in The Great Escape. Received critical acclaim for performances in various stage productions and films, establishing a reputation as a versatile actor.

Continue Reading

Jaap Eden

Speed skater and cyclist champion
Born
October 19th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1925 100 years ago — 51 years old

Achieved remarkable success in both speed skating and cycling during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Dominated the speed skating scene, winning the World Allround Championships in 1893, 1894, and 1895. Transitioned to cycling, where notable achievements included winning the 1894 World Championship in one mile track cycling. His versatility in both sports garnered attention and respect, establishing a legacy in Dutch athletics.

Continue Reading

Gino Hernandez

Professional wrestler with major titles
Born
1957 68 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1986 39 years ago — 29 years old

A professional wrestler associated with the Texas wrestling circuit. Gained prominence in the 1980s, showcasing a flamboyant persona in various wrestling promotions. Developed a notable rivalry with notable wrestlers, contributing to memorable matches. Competed in World Class Championship Wrestling, winning multiple titles and headlining major events. Influenced the wrestling scene with charisma and in-ring skills before an untimely death in 1986.

Continue Reading

Abraham Duquesne

French admiral and naval commander
Born
1610 415 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1688 337 years ago — 78 years old

Served as an admiral in the French Navy during the 17th century and participated in several naval engagements. Played a pivotal role during the Franco-Dutch War, notably leading French forces to victory at the Battle of Cape Béveziers. Commanded the French fleet in the Mediterranean and earned a reputation for his naval strategies and effective leadership. Held the title of Marquis and was influential in maritime affairs, contributing to the expansion of French naval power.

Continue Reading