Benjamin Zephaniah
English poet and playwright
Born in 1958, this individual gained recognition as a poet and playwright, intertwining themes of social justice and personal experience within the works. He published collections of poetry such as 'Talking Tombstones' and 'Too Black, Too Strong'. As an author, he wrote children's literature alongside novels, often focusing on issues of race, identity, and culture. He also made contributions to theater, with plays such as 'The Death of Freedom' being performed. Moreover, he performed in television and film, appearing in productions like 'Peaky Blinders.' His career also involved activism, influencing social change through literature and performance.
Published poetry collections like 'Talking Tombstones'
Wrote children's literature and novels
Acted in 'Peaky Blinders'
Contributed to theater with plays such as 'The Death of Freedom'
Other People Born on April 15th
Thomas Szasz
Psychiatrist; authored 'The Myth of Mental Illness'
Born
April 15th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
A psychiatrist and academic contributed to the field of psychiatry through critical analysis of mental illness. Focused on the ethical implications of psychiatry and the concept of involuntary treatment. Authored several books, including 'The Myth of Mental Illness,' advocating for the view that mental illnesses are often mischaracterizations of behavioral problems. Challenged conventional psychiatric practices and emphasized personal responsibility over medical diagnosis. Advocate for civil liberties and the rights of patients in psychiatry.
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Finnish shot putter and Olympian
Born
April 15th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 76 years old
Competed in the shot put discipline, achieving notable success during the 1930s. Participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where a strong performance brought international recognition. Secured the Finnish national championship title multiple times, demonstrating consistent excellence in the sport. Also represented Finland in various international competitions.
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Songwriter of 'Nature Boy'
Born
April 15th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1908, this American songwriter and recording artist became prominent in the 1940s. He wrote the classic song 'Nature Boy,' which gained immense popularity when Nat King Cole recorded it in 1948. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and remains a staple in American music. Aside from songwriting, this individual contributed to the early Los Angeles music scene and was known for his unique lifestyle, which was influenced by naturalism and eastern philosophies.
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Politician, 51st Mayor of Chicago
Born
April 15th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1987 38 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 51st Mayor of Chicago from 1983 until death in 1987. First African American to hold the office. Prior to mayorship, held various roles in the Illinois legislature and served in the U.S. House of Representatives. Implemented significant changes in city government and promoted inclusive policies. Became a prominent figure in Chicago politics, particularly in the context of civil rights and community empowerment.
Continue ReadingNikolaas Tinbergen
Ethologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1988 37 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent ethologist and ornithologist, this individual contributed significantly to the study of animal behavior. The research emphasized instinctive behavior in animals and introduced the concept of fixed action patterns. In 1973, shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Konrad Lorenz and Karl von Frisch for discoveries concerning organization and elicitation of individual and social behavior patterns in animals. His work laid foundational principles in ethology and significantly advanced understanding of animal behavior, breeding, and communications.
Continue ReadingAlfred S. Bloomingdale
Businessman and financier
Born
April 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 66 years old
American businessman held significant roles in various enterprises. Co-founded the Bloomingdale's department store chain. Involved in investments and real estate, including participation in the development of shopping centers. Contributed to the growth of the American retail industry mid-20th century. Active in philanthropy, supporting cultural institutions and educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 7th
Abidin Dino
Turko-French painter and illustrator
Born
March 23rd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1993 32 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1913, this painter and illustrator contributed significantly to the art scenes of both Turkey and France. Involved in avant-garde movements, collaborated with various artists and writers. Worked extensively in painting, illustrating, and graphic design, which brought attention to societal issues. Left a legacy through numerous exhibitions and contributions to Turkish literature and art.
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Native American actor in film and television
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2017 8 years ago — 55 years old
An actor of Native American descent, notable for appearances in significant film and television projects. Featured in the film 'The Missing' alongside Cate Blanchett and Tommy Lee Jones. Played a prominent role in the television series 'Into the West', showcasing stories related to Native American heritage and history. Reevis' performances contributed to the visibility of Native American actors in Hollywood.
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Italian cardinal and diplomat
Born
July 9th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1913 112 years ago — 85 years old
Luigi Oreglia di Santo Stefano served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and had a significant role in ecclesiastical diplomacy. Born in 1828, he was elevated to the cardinalate in 1893 by Pope Leo XIII. His tenure included significant involvements in church affairs during the tumultuous periods of the late 19th century, particularly regarding relations between the Vatican and various European states. He participated in the conclave that elected Pope Pius X in 1903. Oreglia held various posts within the Church, contributing to important diplomatic discussions.
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Finnish singer with chart-topping hits
Born
November 22nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2010 15 years ago — 65 years old
Began a career in music in the 1960s, with significant contributions to the Finnish music scene. Released numerous albums and became a household name. His distinct style and emotional delivery resonated with audiences, leading to a string of successful singles throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved great popularity with a blend of traditional and modern influences, culminating in a vibrant discography. Continued to perform until the end of his life, solidifying his legacy within Finnish culture.
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English poet, novelist, critic
Born
July 24th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1985 40 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1895, this English figure excelled in poetry, novels, and literary criticism. Graves gained prominence with works such as "I, Claudius," a historical novel that provides a fictional account of the Roman Emperor Claudius. Additionally, the poet was recognized for contributions to modernism and the war poetry genre, having experienced World War I firsthand. His literary legacy includes a focus on myth, history, and personal reflection, often intertwining personal experiences with broader themes. Graves also authored notable collections of poetry that received critical acclaim throughout his career.
Continue ReadingChuck Yeager
US Air Force General and test pilot
Born
February 13th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 97 years old
A pioneering test pilot and U.S. Air Force general, achieved a significant milestone in aviation history by breaking the sound barrier in 1947. Yeager's flight aboard the Bell X-1, named Glamorous Glennis, marked the first time a human surpassed the speed of sound. Following this groundbreaking achievement, Yeager continued to contribute to the field of aviation through numerous test flights and military service during World War II and the Vietnam War. Later, he served as a key figure in aerospace research, sharing expertise with various aircraft programs.
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