August Strindberg
Swedish playwright and novelist
A prolific writer in various genres, focused on themes of psychology and existentialism. Authored the influential plays 'Miss Julie' and 'The Father', which explored complex human relationships and societal issues. Wrote novels such as 'The Red Room' and 'A Ghost Sonata', reflecting the social conditions of the time. His work contributed significantly to the development of modernist literature and drama, influencing many writers and playwrights in subsequent generations.
Authored 'Miss Julie'
Wrote 'The Red Room'
Created 'The Father'
Other People Born on January 22nd
Jørgen Garde
Danish admiral renowned for naval command
Born
January 22nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1939, a distinguished Danish admiral held key leadership positions within the Royal Danish Navy. Commanded various naval operations, demonstrating strategic and tactical expertise. Contributed to the modernization of Denmark's naval forces during pivotal periods. Served as the Chief of Defence, overseeing military operations and naval strategy. Promoted cooperation within NATO and strengthened Denmark's maritime defense capabilities.
Continue ReadingPorfirio Rubirosa
Dominican diplomat and polo player
Born
January 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1965 60 years ago — 56 years old
Achieved recognition as a prominent polo player and racing driver. Competed in various prestigious racing events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Served as a diplomat for the Dominican Republic, fostering international relations. Maintained a reputation in high society, associated with notable figures of the time.
Continue ReadingDillon Brooks
Canadian basketball player, Memphis Grizzlies
Born
January 22nd, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, a professional basketball player from Canada. Played college basketball at the University of Oregon before entering the NBA. Selected in the second round of the 2017 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. Gained recognition for strong defensive skills and scoring ability. Played a key role in the Grizzlies' playoff appearance, contributing to the team's competitive performance in the Western Conference.
Continue ReadingBeatrice Webb
Sociologist and economist, co-founder of the Fabian Society
Born
January 22nd, 1858 167 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1943 82 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1858, a significant sociologist and economist contributed to the development of social reform in England. Co-founded the Fabian Society, advocating for gradual socialist change. Authored 'The Family and Individualism' and 'England's Industrial Future', exploring social issues and economic systems. Engaged in extensive research on poverty and social conditions, influencing policy debates in the early 20th century. Involved in the formation of the London School of Economics, further shaping economic studies in Britain.
Continue ReadingNicolas Lancret
French painter of the Rococo style
Born
January 22nd, 1690 335 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1743 282 years ago — 53 years old
A significant French painter during the early 18th century, this artist specialized in the Rococo style, often focusing on themes of love and leisure. His artwork depicted elegant figures engaged in pastoral scenes and festivities, characterized by vibrant colors and playful compositions. Lancret's work gained popularity in the court of Louis XIV. Collaborations with fashion and textile designs further showcased his influence. His artistic contributions remain emblematic of the French Rococo aesthetic.
Continue ReadingRobert E. Howard
American author of pulp fiction
Born
January 22nd, 1906 119 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1936 89 years ago — 30 years old
An American author and poet, contributed significantly to the genre of pulp fiction. Created iconic characters, including Conan the Barbarian and Solomon Kane, which defined the sword and sorcery subgenre. Wrote numerous short stories and poems that explored themes of adventure, fantasy, and horror, establishing a prominent literary legacy. Despite a brief career, produced a prolific volume of work and became a central figure in the genre's history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
Robert Stack
American actor and television star
Born
January 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, recognized for roles in film and television. Starred in the iconic television series 'The Untouchables' as Eliot Ness, which aired from 1959 to 1963. Additionally, provided the narrational voice for the television series 'Unsolved Mysteries' from 1987 to 2002, contributing to its popularity. Appeared in various films, including 'The High and the Mighty' and 'Airplane!', showcasing a range of talent from drama to comedy. Earned an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1960 for performances in television dramas. Had a significant presence in Hollywood, respected for both dramatic and comedic roles.
Continue ReadingPope John XII
Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Died
May 14th, 964 1061 years ago — None years old
Elected as pope in 955, one of the youngest to hold the position, served during a turbulent period marked by political intrigue and conflict within the Church and the Holy Roman Empire. His papacy faced significant challenges, including tensions with the Eastern Orthodox Church. Engaged in various political alliances, worked closely with local nobles and kings to strengthen the Church's influence in Italy. Cultivated relationships with powerful dynasties, notably the Ottonian dynasty. His tenure ended abruptly with allegations of immoral conduct, ultimately leading to his deposition in 964.
Continue ReadingHenry J. Heinz
Businessman and founder of Heinz Company
Born
1844 181 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1919 106 years ago — 75 years old
Founded the H. J. Heinz Company in 1869, specializing in processed foods. Heinz developed a variety of food products, including the iconic ketchup. Under leadership, the company emphasized quality and innovation in food processing. The brand became a household name, known for its 57 varieties and commitment to customer satisfaction. Died in 1919, leaving a legacy in the food industry.
Continue ReadingHenry IV of France
King of France and Edict of Nantes
Born
December 13th, 1553 472 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1610 415 years ago — 56 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1589 until his assassination in 1610. First monarch of the House of Bourbon, significantly strengthened the central authority of the French state. Promoted religious tolerance with the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting substantial rights to Huguenots after decades of civil war over religious disputes. Implemented economic reforms that led to recovery and improvement in agriculture and trade. His reign marked the transition from the Wars of Religion to a period of relative peace.
Continue ReadingJiang Qing
Chinese revolutionary and actress
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 77 years old
Acted in several revolutionary operas and plays and became a prominent political figure during the Cultural Revolution in China. Served as the fourth wife of Mao Zedong, actively involved in the politics of the era and known for her role in the Gang of Four, which played a key part in the Chinese government's direction. After Mao's death, faced scrutiny and imprisonment due to political shifts and eventual disbandment of the Gang of Four.
Continue ReadingHenri La Fontaine
Belgian lawyer and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 22nd, 1854 171 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1943 82 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent lawyer and author, contributed to international law and peace efforts. Instrumental in the establishment of the International Peace Bureau and served as its president. Advocated for disarmament and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, significantly impacting legal frameworks regarding peace. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1913 for efforts in promoting peace and understanding among nations.
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