Barbara Branden
Canadian-American author and philosopher
An author focused on philosophy and literature, with a significant contribution to the promotion of Objectivism. Co-founded the Nathaniel Branden Institute and was instrumental in disseminating the ideas of Ayn Rand. Authored numerous books, including a biography of Ayn Rand, which offered insights into her life and works. In addition to literary works, engaged in public speaking and wrote articles for various publications, advocating for individualism and personal liberty.
Authored 'The Passion of Ayn Rand'
Co-founded the Nathaniel Branden Institute
Other People Born on May 14th
Dick Howser
Baseball manager; 1985 World Series champion
Born
May 14th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1987 39 years ago — 51 years old
Played for the New York Yankees and the Kansas City Athletics. Transitioned into coaching and management after playing career. Managed the Kansas City Royals and led the team to victory in the 1985 World Series, achieving the first championship in franchise history. Also served as a coach for the New York Yankees during the 1980s.
Continue ReadingFranjo Tuđman
Croatian historian and politician, 1st President
Born
May 14th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in Croatian history and politics, this individual served as the first President of Croatia from 1990 to 1999. A historian by training, significant contributions included advocating for Croatian independence from Yugoslavia. Played a crucial role during the Croatian War of Independence, shaping the new nation's political landscape and institutions. His presidency was marked by efforts to establish Croatia as a sovereign state and navigate post-war recovery.
Continue ReadingHenry McGee
English actor and singer
Born
May 14th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 77 years old
An English actor and singer, gained prominence in the entertainment industry through various performances in television and theatre. Best recognized for roles in the series 'The Benny Hill Show' and 'The Good Old Days'. Besides acting, contributed to musical performances, showcasing vocal talents in various productions. Active in the industry for several decades, leaving a mark with a blend of comedy and music.
Continue ReadingZach Edey
Basketball player, NCAA star
Born
May 14th, 2002 24 years ago
A basketball player who played for Purdue University. Edey gained recognition for his skills as a center, contributing significantly to his team's success. In the 2022-2023 season, he was a major player in NCAA basketball, leading Purdue to the Big Ten Championship and earning the Naismith Men's College Player of the Year award. His height and agility allowed him to dominate in the paint and make a considerable impact on the court.
Continue ReadingBob Woolmer
Cricket coach and sportscaster
Born
May 14th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2007 19 years ago — 58 years old
Played cricket for England and later became a coach, significantly contributing to the coaching of various cricket teams. Served as head coach of the Pakistan national team, leading them to the 2007 Cricket World Cup. Transitioned into a successful sportscasting career, analyzing cricket matches and providing insights on various platforms. Developed training programs and emphasized modern techniques in the sport.
Continue ReadingHerbert Morrison
Journalist and producer of 'Hindenburg'
Born
May 14th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1989 37 years ago — 83 years old
American journalist and producer contributed significantly to radio broadcasting in the mid-20th century. Gained prominence for coverage of important events, particularly the 1937 Hindenburg disaster. His emotional broadcast of the incident highlighted the tragedy and conveyed the gravity of the moment to listeners. Worked for CBS and played a critical role in shaping radio journalism during that era. Also associated with the program 'You Are There', which brought historical events to life through dramatization.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 11th
Ivan Cankar
Slovenian poet and playwright
Born
May 10th, 1876 150 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1918 107 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent figure in Slovenian literature, contributions included poetry, essays, and plays that addressed social and political issues. His work often explored themes of national identity and moral dilemmas. Major works included the play 'Hlapci' ('The Serfs') and 'Naš Avguštin', highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in society. He was involved in the Slovenian national movement and aimed to elevate the Slovenian language and culture through literature.
Continue ReadingMusidora
French actress and director, filmmaker
Born
February 23rd, 1889 137 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1957 68 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1889, Musidora became prominent in the French silent film era, gaining recognition as an actress and director. She starred in films during the 1910s and 1920s, with significant contributions to the crime drama genre. Musidora also directed films, showcasing her versatility in the film industry. Her influence extended beyond acting, as she was also a screenwriter. As a pioneer for women in cinema, Musidora's work helped shape early 20th-century French film.
Continue ReadingArtur Lundkvist
Swedish poet and literary critic
Born
March 3rd, 1906 120 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1991 34 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1906, this individual contributed significantly to Swedish literature through poetry and literary criticism. Having been influenced by modernist movements, many works reflected themes of human experience and existentialism. The individual also served as a member of the Swedish Academy, helping to shape the literary discourse in Sweden. Publications include several collections of poetry and essays that explore various facets of life and culture. Throughout a prolific career, an emphasis was placed on the intersection of literature and society.
Continue ReadingRichard Brocklesby
English physician and author of medical texts
Born
August 11th, 1722 303 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1797 228 years ago — 75 years old
A physician practiced medicine in England during the 18th century. Contributed significantly to medical literature, particularly with the publication of 'Medical Observations and Inquiries.' Engaged in the discussions and advancements surrounding health and disease at the time, offering insights into various medical practices. Held a position as a physician to notable figures and carried out clinical work.
Continue ReadingOlive Schreiner
South African author and feminist activist
Born
March 24th, 1855 171 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1920 105 years ago — 65 years old
An influential writer and social activist, contributed significantly to literature and feminist thought. Authored the novel 'The Story of an African Farm', which gained recognition for its exploration of themes such as gender and social structure in South Africa. Actively engaged in political issues, including women's rights and anti-war movements, emphasizing the importance of equality and social justice.
Continue ReadingCharles Fabry
French physicist and academic
Born
June 11th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1945 80 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of optics and spectroscopy. Developed the technique of Fabry-Perot interferometry, which enhanced the analysis of light waves. Held a position as a professor at the University of Paris, where research on the interaction of light with matter was conducted. Engaged with various scientific societies and contributed to numerous publications in the field of physics.
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