Aphra Behn
Playwright and novelist of Restoration era
An influential author and playwright from England, contributed significantly to the Restoration literary scene. Among the first women to earn a living by writing, produced works that explored themes of love, politics, and gender. Her most notable plays include 'The Rover' and 'The Lucky Chance', which showcased her wit and understanding of human relationships. In addition to plays, wrote novels such as 'Oroonoko', regarded as one of the earliest English novels. Contemporaries recognized her talent and defiance in a male-dominated literary world.
Wrote the play 'The Rover'
Published the novel 'Oroonoko'
Other People Born on December 14th
Ron Jarden
Rugby player, All Blacks representative
Born
December 14th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 48 years old
Played rugby union as a wing for New Zealand's national team, the All Blacks, during the 1950s. Established a reputation as a skilled player in domestic rugby competitions. Contributed significantly to the sport in New Zealand, participating in several international matches and earning selection for prestigious tours. Retired from professional play, leaving a legacy within rugby circles in the nation.
Continue ReadingPrincess Maria Antonia of Naples and Sicily
Italian Princess and Queen Consort of France
Born
December 14th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1806 220 years ago — 22 years old
Born into the royal family of Naples and Sicily, she married Louis XVI of France in 1770, becoming the Queen Consort of France. Her reign was marked by political upheaval and the eventual outbreak of the French Revolution. She faced significant scrutiny from the public and criticism for her extravagant lifestyle amid widespread poverty. Captured during the Revolution, she was tried for treason and executed by guillotine in 1793. Her life and death became symbols of the monarchy's downfall and the tumultuous changes in France.
Continue ReadingLee Remick
American actress, starred in Days of Wine and Roses
Born
December 14th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1991 35 years ago — 55 years old
An acclaimed actress, this individual gained recognition for roles in film and television. Early performances included work in theater productions before transitioning to film. Major roles included Sandy in 'Days of Wine and Roses' and the lead in 'The Omen'. Throughout a successful career, received several award nominations, including Academy Award and Emmy Award nominations. Contributions to both film and television showcased range and depth of talent.
Continue ReadingErastus Corning
American politician and businessman
Born
December 14th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1872 154 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the mayor of Albany, New York for a total of 20 years across several non-consecutive terms. Engaged in multiple business ventures, including contributing to the development of the railroad industry in New York. Corning also played a significant role in local politics and governance, influencing infrastructure and economic policies during the mid-19th century.
Continue ReadingElyse Knox
American model and actress
Born
December 14th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2012 14 years ago — 94 years old
Began a career as a model in the 1940s, featuring in various magazines. Transitioned to acting with appearances in films during the 1940s and 1950s, including 'The Ghost Goes West' and 'The Monster Maker'. Also contributed to fashion design, developing her own clothing lines. Engaged in television work, including guest appearances on popular series of the time. Established a reputation in the entertainment industry as a multifaceted figure.
Continue ReadingJustus Möser
German jurist and legal theorist
Born
December 14th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1794 232 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed significantly to legal philosophy and theory in Germany. Worked as a lawyer, statesman, and prominent jurist. Advocated for legal reforms and the importance of understanding local customs and traditions in law. Published influential writings that explored the relationship between law and morality.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 16th
Jacques Cassini
French astronomer, Cassini family legacy
Born
1677 349 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1756 270 years ago — 79 years old
An influential astronomer in the 17th and 18th centuries, contributed significantly to the study of celestial bodies. Worked on the measurement of meridian arcs in France and contributed to the mapping of the heavens. Collaborated with the Cassini family, known for extensive work in astronomy. Published various works including the famous astronomical tables, which aided in navigation and understanding of celestial mechanics.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Goya
Spanish painter of 'The Third of May'
Born
March 30th, 1746 280 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1828 198 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1746, a prominent painter and printmaker became a pivotal figure in the transition from the Old Masters to modern art. An early supporter of the Enlightenment, created works that often showcased social and political criticism. Spent significant time in France, influencing subsequent generations of artists with unique styles and themes. Major works include 'The Naked Maja' and 'The Clothed Maja', presenting contrasting depictions of the female form. Masterpieces capture the tumult of war and human suffering, particularly noted in 'The Third of May 1808', which addressed the horrors of conflict.
Continue ReadingKhalil al-Wazir
Palestinian military commander and leader
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1988 38 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent Palestinian military commander and a key figure in the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). Cofounded Fatah in the late 1950s, which later emerged as the dominant faction within the PLO. Played a crucial role in the Palestinian resistance against Israel throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Relocated to various countries, including Jordan and Lebanon, during the ongoing conflict. Focused on military operations and mobilizing support for Palestinian nationalism. Assassinated in تونس in 1988, an event that marked a significant moment in Palestinian political history.
Continue ReadingRobert Urich
Television actor and producer
Born
December 19th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2002 24 years ago — 55 years old
An American actor and producer, this individual gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with a successful career in television. Stars in the series 'Vega$' and 'Spenser: For Hire' established a memorable presence in the crime drama genre. Work included guest appearances on various popular television shows, showcasing versatility across different characters. Active in film as well, roles spanned a range of genres. The actor's contributions to the television landscape were significant, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.
Continue ReadingPéter Veres
Hungarian Minister of Defence
Born
1897 129 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1970 56 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent figure in Hungarian politics during the mid-20th century, served as Minister of Defence. Played a significant role in military and defense policies. Involved in post-World War II reconstruction efforts and administration. Contributed to discussions regarding national security and defense during a critical period in Hungarian history.
Continue ReadingJocko Conlan
Baseball umpire with Hall of Fame induction
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1989 37 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a professional baseball player in the 1930s before transitioning to umpiring in Major League Baseball. Officiated in several World Series and All-Star Games throughout a lengthy career as an umpire. His work as an umpire was recognized with induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974.
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