Benjamin Zephaniah

English poet and playwright

Benjamin Zephaniah - English poet and playwright
Born

April 15th, 1958
67 years ago

Died

December 7th, 2023
1 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

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

Jeromy Burnitz

Baseball player and right fielder
Born
April 15th, 1969 56 years ago

Played Major League Baseball for several teams, including the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs. Achieved a career-high of 38 home runs in the 2002 season, contributing to the Cubs' playoff push. Noted for offensive power and defensive skills in the outfield during a career spanning over a decade.

Continue Reading

Helene Hanff

American author of 84, Charing Cross Road
Born
April 15th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1997 28 years ago — 80 years old

An author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on correspondence that captured the essence of human connection through letters. '84, Charing Cross Road', published in 1970, became a bestseller and was adapted into a film in 1987. The work reflects a friendship established over letters between an American writer and a British bookseller, dealing with themes of literature and culture across the Atlantic. In addition to this prominent work, contributed essays and articles to various publications throughout her career, showcasing a strong voice in her narrative style.

Continue Reading

Nikolay Semyonov

Physicist and chemist, Nobel laureate
Born
April 15th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1986 39 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent physicist and chemist, contributed significantly to the field of chemical kinetics. Served as a professor and director at the Institute of Chemical Physics in Moscow. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1956 for work on the mechanisms of chemical transformations. Authored several influential scientific publications and played a key role in establishing chemical physics as a distinct field of study.

Continue Reading

James Kee

American lawyer and politician
Born
April 15th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1989 36 years ago — 71 years old

Service in the U.S. House of Representatives occurred from 1945 to 1947, representing West Virginia's 4th congressional district. Played a significant role in state politics, focusing on legal reforms and community development. Acted as a lawyer after his congressional term and contributed to various legal initiatives within the state. Continued involvement in local political affairs until his death.

Continue Reading

Hasrat Jaipuri

Indian poet and songwriter for Bollywood
Born
April 15th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 77 years old

Born on April 15, 1922, in Jaipur, this individual contributed significantly to Indian literature and cinema as a poet and lyricist. Gaining prominence in the 1950s, wrote lyrics for numerous popular Bollywood songs. Collaborated with leading music directors of the time and worked on many films. The lyrical contributions enriched the music of the Hindi film industry and resonated with audiences. The poetry exhibited a flair for romanticism and deep emotions, making it timeless. Despite the passage of years, the songs continue to be celebrated in Indian culture.

Continue Reading

Daniel Paille

Ice hockey player, 2011 Stanley Cup Champion
Born
April 15th, 1984 41 years ago

Played as a professional ice hockey player, primarily as a left winger. Spent major parts of career with the Boston Bruins and the Buffalo Sabres. Achieved recognition for performance in the National Hockey League (NHL). Contributed to the Bruins' success during the 2010-2011 season, culminating in a Stanley Cup championship.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 7th

Florent Carton Dancourt

French actor and playwright
Born
November 1st, 1661 364 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1725 299 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1661, this individual contributed significantly to French theater during the early 18th century. Active primarily in Paris, the person became associated with the Comédie-Française, one of the foremost theater companies in France. The works included numerous plays that showcased both comedic and dramatic elements, reflecting the social intricacies of the time. Notable for advancing the genre of comedy in France, the individual left a lasting influence on the theatrical landscape.

Continue Reading

Ron Saunders

Football manager and player
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2019 5 years ago — 87 years old

Played as a forward and later became a football manager. Managed several clubs, including Portsmouth, and guided Aston Villa to win the First Division title in the 1980-81 season. Also had a successful tenure at Norwich City, leading them to the top tier of English football. Throughout a career that spanned decades, he was respected for his tactical acumen and his ability to develop players.

Continue Reading

Küçük Hüseyin Pasha

Turkish admiral and politician
Born
1757 268 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1803 221 years ago — 46 years old

Served as an admiral in the Ottoman Navy, achieving significant victories during various naval engagements. Played a crucial role in the expansion of Ottoman naval power in the late 18th century. Transitioned into politics, holding prominent positions within the Ottoman government. His leadership contributed to the naval strategies during the war against Russia.

Continue Reading

Marty Reisman

Table Tennis Champion and Author
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2012 12 years ago — 82 years old

An accomplished table tennis player and author, made significant contributions to the sport. Won the United States National Championships multiple times. Gained international recognition for victories in various competitions, including the World Table Tennis Championships. Authored books on table tennis techniques and strategies, sharing expertise with generations of players. Throughout a long career, advocated for the sport and participated in promoting table tennis in the United States.

Continue Reading

Eutychian

Pope of the Catholic Church
Died
December 7th, 283 1741 years ago — None years old

Served as pope during the late 2nd century and early 3rd century. His papacy witnessed a time of growth for the early Church. Contributed to the establishment of church structures and governance. Oversaw the Church amidst challenges and persecution faced by Christians at the time.

Continue Reading

Nicholas Murray Butler

Philosopher, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 2nd, 1862 163 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1947 77 years ago — 85 years old

An influential philosopher and academic, associated with Columbia University for many years. Served as president of the university and contributed significantly to its development. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1931 for his writings, particularly focusing on his views regarding peace and the role of education in society. Engaged in various international educational and cultural initiatives.

Continue Reading