Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius
Botanist and explorer of Brazil
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Germany
Links & References
A prominent botanist and explorer, contributions focused on the flora of Brazil. Studied botany extensively, leading expeditions to collect plant specimens. Worked on the classification and documentation of various plant species. Developed significant works, including 'Flora Brasiliae.' Additionally, served as a naturalist and produced detailed accounts of Brazilian ecology and culture during the 19th century.
Published 'Flora Brasiliae'
Conducted extensive botanical expeditions in Brazil
Established critical classifications of Brazilian plants
Other People Born on April 17th
Richard Allen Epstein
American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.
Continue ReadingSirimavo Bandaranaike
Prime Minister, world's first female PM
Born
April 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2000 25 years ago — 84 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Sri Lanka and became the world's first female head of government. Her tenure focused on social reform, economic development, and establishing non-alignment in foreign policy. Bandaranaike first took office in 1960 and served three terms, contributing significantly to the political landscape of Sri Lanka. Her government implemented policies aimed at promoting education and health care. During her leadership, she was involved in various international conferences, advocating for the rights of developing nations.
Continue ReadingNick Hornby
English novelist and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in 1957, this English novelist, essayist, lyricist, and screenwriter gained recognition for works exploring themes of music, relationships, and adolescent experiences. The debut novel, "Fever Pitch," detailed a passionate obsession with football, blending autobiography and sports commentary. Subsequent novels, including "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," garnered critical acclaim and were adapted into successful films, further establishing a career in screenwriting. Contributions to music journalism and various essays displayed an ongoing engagement with popular culture. The collaboration with musician Ben Folds resulted in a musical adaptation of "High Fidelity."
Continue ReadingOlivia Hussey
Argentinian-English actress in Romeo and Juliet
Born
April 17th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2024 0 years ago — 73 years old
An actress recognized for performances in film and television. Gained international fame for portraying Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli's film adaptation of 'Romeo and Juliet' (1968). Received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for this role. Other notable works include 'Jesus of Nazareth' (1977) and 'The Last Goodbye' (1975).
Continue ReadingLindsay Anderson
English director and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1994 31 years ago — 71 years old
An English director and screenwriter, played a significant role in British cinema. Featured prominently in the British New Wave movement, directed the acclaimed film 'If....' in 1968, which explored themes of rebellion in a British boarding school. Played a key part in the film 'O Lucky Man!' in 1973, which combined social commentary with absurdist humor. Worked extensively in theater, directing influential stage productions.
Continue ReadingDon Kirshner
Songwriter and music producer for The Monkees
Born
April 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent songwriter and music producer, contributed significantly to the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Developed and produced catchy songs for various artists and bands. Managed The Monkees, creating hit songs that topped the charts. Established Kirshner Productions to nurture young talents. Involved in the creation of the TV show 'Don Kirshner's Rock Concert', which showcased numerous prominent musical acts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 13th
Jon Hall
Actor in 'The Hurricane' and director
Born
February 23rd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1979 46 years ago — 64 years old
An American actor and director, Hall gained prominence in the 1940s. He starred in the film 'The Hurricane', which showcased his talent and led to further opportunities in Hollywood. Hall also directed and produced several films, extending his influence beyond acting. His work in the entertainment industry contributed to the growth of his career and left a mark on the film landscape of the era.
Continue ReadingAugust Šenoa
Croatian author and poet of 'Zlatarevo zlato'
Born
November 14th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1881 144 years ago — 43 years old
An influential Croatian author, poet, and literary critic, this individual significantly contributed to Croatian literature in the 19th century. Active during a period of national revival, this writer's works often explored themes of history and folklore. Most notable work, 'Zlatarevo zlato' (The Goldsmith's Treasure), is a historical novel that combines romance with a rich depiction of Zagreb in the 16th century. Other works include plays and essays that reflect on Croatian identity and culture. In addition to fiction, criticism played a crucial role in the development of literary standards in Croatia.
Continue ReadingCyril Delevanti
Actor in 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'
Born
February 23rd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1975 50 years ago — 86 years old
Born in England, a career in acting spanned several decades in both stage and film. Transitioned to the United States and became associated with American theater. Gained recognition for performances in various productions, showcasing versatility in roles. Collaborated with notable directors and actors, contributing to the theatrical landscape of the time. Appeared in films as well, further broadening the artistic reach. Continued to engage with the theatrical community until the later stages of life.
Continue ReadingDora Marsden
English author and women's rights activist
Born
March 5th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1960 65 years ago — 78 years old
An English author and activist, contributed to feminist literature and women's rights in the early 20th century. Served as editor of the influential magazine 'The Freewoman', which became a platform for feminist thought and discussion. In 1913, founded the Women’s Social and Political Union, aligning with the suffragette movement to advocate for women's suffrage. Authored works that critiqued social and political norms, focusing on women's contributions to society.
Continue ReadingArthur Wesley Dow
Painter and photographer, art educator
Born
April 6th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1922 103 years ago — 65 years old
A significant figure in American art, contributions included painting and photography, focusing on Asian design principles and their influence on Western art. Dow served as an educator, teaching at various institutions, including the Teacher's College at Columbia University. His written works, particularly 'Composition: A Series of Exercises in Art Structure for Students of All Art', provided guidance on artistic practice and education. Dow's approach emphasized harmony, balance, and beauty in composition.
Continue ReadingFritz Pregl
Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Born
September 3rd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1930 95 years ago — 61 years old
This individual was a Slovenian chemist and physician who made significant contributions to analytical chemistry. The development of microanalysis techniques allowed for the precise measurement and analysis of chemical compounds in very small quantities. This innovation led to numerous advancements in the field of chemistry and life sciences. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1923 for work on quantitative organic microanalysis, the contributions have had lasting significance in research methodologies.
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