Booth Tarkington
American novelist and dramatist
A prominent American novelist and dramatist, contributed significantly to early 20th-century literature. Authored several famous works, most notably "The Magnificent Ambersons" and "Alice Adams," both of which won Pulitzer Prizes. Engaged in the literary scene of his time, engaging with themes of social status and the complexities of American life. Besides fiction, also wrote plays that were performed on Broadway, further showcasing versatility in storytelling.
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1919 for "The Magnificent Ambersons"
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1922 for "Alice Adams"
Other People Born on July 29th
Samm Sinclair Baker
American writer and columnist
Born
July 29th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1997 28 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to American journalism and literature. Worked as a writer for various magazines, emphasizing topics such as technology and culture. Authored several books that explored the intersections of society and the evolving modern world. Served as a columnist, providing insights on current events and cultural phenomena, influencing readers and fellow writers alike.
Continue ReadingGerhard Armauer Hansen
Norwegian physician, discovered leprosy bacterium
Born
July 29th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1912 113 years ago — 70 years old
A Norwegian physician conducted groundbreaking research on leprosy, leading to the identification of the Mycobacterium leprae bacterium in 1873. This discovery laid the foundation for understanding the disease and its transmission. Hansen's work was instrumental in challenging the misconceptions surrounding leprosy during the 19th century, contributing to improved medical responses and care for affected individuals. He published numerous scientific papers and was regarded for his meticulous methodology and dedication to his field.
Continue ReadingWilliam Powell
Actor in The Thin Man series
Born
July 29th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1984 41 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor, renowned for a distinctive style in film and a sophisticated persona. Starred in the 'The Thin Man' series, portraying the character Nick Charles, which became a hallmark of his career. Also earned acclaim for performances in films like 'My Man Godfrey' and 'The Great Ziegfeld'. His career spanned over five decades, starting in the silent film era and transitioning to talkies, showcasing versatility in various genres. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for 'My Man Godfrey'.
Continue ReadingRupert Hamer
Australian politician and lawyer
Born
July 29th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old
A soldier during World War II, contributed to Australia's legal and political landscape. Served as the 39th Premier of Victoria from 1972 to 1981, implementing significant reforms in education and health. Hamer also had a legal career, focusing on constitutional law and public policy after his tenure as Premier.
Continue ReadingPhilip Charles Durham
Scottish admiral and politician
Born
July 29th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1845 180 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the Royal Navy and reached the rank of admiral. Participated in significant naval engagements during the Napoleonic Wars. Played a crucial role in political matters, representing Scotland. His leadership contributed to naval strategies and operations, impacting maritime affairs during his time.
Continue ReadingDale Copley
Rugby league player, Queensland representative
Born
July 29th, 1991 34 years ago
A rugby league player, prominent in the National Rugby League (NRL). Played for teams including the Brisbane Broncos and the Gold Coast Titans. Represented Queensland in State of Origin and participated in international matches for Australia and the Prime Minister's XIII. Helped the Brisbane Broncos secure the NRL premiership in 2015.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 19th
Morley Safer
Journalist and author of '60 Minutes'
Born
November 8th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Canada and later a naturalized citizen of the United States, this journalist became a prominent figure in broadcast journalism. He began working for CBS News in the 1960s and contributed significantly to the news magazine program '60 Minutes'. His investigative reporting often focused on political and social issues, earning accolades and recognition in the field of journalism. The use of compelling storytelling techniques and candid interviews characterized his work, making significant contributions to the medium.
Continue ReadingPaul Mooney
Comedian and writer of 'Chappelle's Show'
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in comedy, contributed significantly to the genre through stand-up performances and writing. Worked extensively on 'Chappelle's Show', creating memorable sketches and characters. Collaborated with various notable comedians, influencing a generation of performers. Continued to perform live until death in 2021.
Continue ReadingMary Dresselhuys
Dutch actress and screenwriter
Born
1907 118 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2004 21 years ago — 97 years old
An accomplished actress and screenwriter celebrated in Dutch theater and television. Gained prominence in various productions during a career spanning several decades. Worked extensively in the Dutch National Theater and became a familiar face on television through roles in popular series. Her contributions to the arts include both acting and writing, reflecting a deep engagement with performing arts in the Netherlands.
Continue ReadingZbigniew Pietrzykowski
Polish boxer with Olympic accolades
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Competed in boxing, specializing in the welterweight division, and earned a silver medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Participated in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics as well. Secured multiple Polish championship titles throughout the career, establishing a reputation in the sport. Retired from professional boxing and contributed to the development of boxing in Poland through coaching and mentorship.
Continue ReadingAndy Rourke
Bassist for The Smiths
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2023 2 years ago — 59 years old
Bassist contributed to the influential band The Smiths during the 1980s. Formed in 1982, the band released four studio albums and several singles that defined the sound of the era. Successful works include 'The Queen Is Dead' and 'Meat Is Murder'. Rourke's melodic basslines became characteristic of the band's music. After The Smiths disbanded in 1987, he worked with various artists and formed several bands. Rourke continued to perform and record music throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy in the alternative rock scene.
Continue ReadingVincent Harding
Historian and civil rights scholar
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of history and religion, focusing on the civil rights movement and African American studies. Played a key role in developing educational curricula that highlighted the contributions of black Americans. Served as a professor at several institutions, including the Iliff School of Theology. Founded the Institute of the Black World's first national conference in 1970, which addressed the challenges of black culture and religion in America.
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