Charles Demuth
American painter and precisionist
An American painter advanced the Precisionist art movement, focusing on cityscapes and industrial subjects. Works displayed a strong influence from Cubism and showed an interest in modern American life. Notable pieces included 'My Egypt', which depicted a grain elevator, and 'The Figure 5 in Gold', inspired by a poem by William Carlos Williams. Demuth also engaged in watercolor painting, showcasing a mastery of color and form.
Created 'My Egypt' and 'The Figure 5 in Gold
Played a significant role in the Precisionist movement
Exhibited at prestigious venues including the Whitney Museum
Other People Born on November 8th
Tomoyuki Yamashita
Japanese general during World War II
Born
November 8th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old
Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Commanded Japanese forces in the Malayan Campaign and the Battle of Singapore, leading to the capture of the British stronghold in 1942. Led troops in various campaigns throughout the Pacific, demonstrating tactical skills in land warfare. Post-war, faced trial for war crimes and was executed in 1946.
Continue ReadingPatti Page
Singer and actress of pop music
Born
November 8th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent singer and actress, recognized for contributions to the pop genre. Rose to fame in the late 1940s and 1950s with a series of hit records. Achieved significant success with the song 'Tennessee Waltz,' which became a million-seller. Also featured in films and television, noted for her warm vocal style and engaging performances. Released numerous albums over her career, solidifying a place in American music history.
Continue ReadingEdmond Halley
English astronomer, Halley's Comet.
Born
November 8th, 1656 369 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1742 283 years ago — 85 years old
An English astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and is most recognized for calculating the orbit of Halley's Comet, establishing its periodic appearance. Also served as the second Astronomer Royal and made notable contributions to meteorology and the study of the Earth's magnetic field. Conducted comprehensive research on stellar positions and published a landmark work titled 'Catalogus Stellarum.' Participated in the Royal Society as a prominent member.
Continue ReadingNguyễn Khánh
General and President of South Vietnam
Born
November 8th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
A military officer and politician, served as the 3rd President of South Vietnam from 1964 to 1965. Commanded the Army of the Republic of Vietnam during pivotal moments of the Vietnam War. Held leadership roles in various military coups aimed at the ousting of political leaders deemed ineffective. After leaving political office, lived in exile until returning to Vietnam in the later years.
Continue ReadingDes Corcoran
Australian politician, 37th Premier of South Australia
Born
November 8th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2004 21 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the 37th Premier of South Australia from 1982 to 1983. Held the position of leader of the South Australian Labor Party during a significant period of political change. Focused on public health, education, and economic issues during tenure in office. Prior to premiership, contributed to local governance in various capacities.
Continue ReadingMartha Gellhorn
Journalist and author, WWII correspondent
Born
November 8th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 89 years old
Worked as a journalist and author with a focus on war reporting. Covered World War II as a correspondent for Collier's Weekly, establishing a reputation for insightful and unflinching reporting. Authored several novels and works of nonfiction throughout a prolific career. Contributed to notable publications such as The New Republic and The Atlantic Monthly. Known for her strong humanitarian views and her advocacy for social justice issues.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 23rd
Eric Reece
Australian politician, 32nd Premier of Tasmania
Born
July 6th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 32nd Premier of Tasmania from 1972 to 1975, representing the Australian Labor Party. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Education and Minister for Transport. Worked to improve public services and infrastructure within Tasmania during the time in office.
Continue ReadingGary Indiana
American writer and playwright
Born
July 16th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2024 1 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1950, this individual is a writer, playwright, and poet. He gained prominence in the 1980s with works that often explore themes of identity and the complexities of urban life. The crafting of sharp social commentaries throughout various publications has established a distinctive voice in contemporary literature. His contribution to theater, particularly through plays that critique societal norms, has garnered attention and respect in literary circles. Additionally, he has written essays and criticism that reflect on modern culture and the arts.
Continue ReadingRobert Merrill
American opera singer and actor
Born
June 4th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2004 21 years ago — 87 years old
A significant figure in American opera and popular music, an acclaimed baritone performed in leading roles at the Metropolitan Opera for over two decades. Achieved fame through operatic performances and concert appearances, captivating audiences with a powerful voice. Also contributed to television and recordings, featuring in classic shows and popular music segments. His contributions to the arts extended beyond performances, participating in various charitable events.
Continue ReadingThéophile Gautier
French poet and literary critic
Born
August 31st, 1811 214 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1872 153 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1811, a prominent French poet and critic contributed significantly to the literary world during the 19th century. Associated with the Romantic movement, published poetry collections such as 'Émaux et Camées' and engaged with literary criticism through works like 'La poésie' and 'Le roman de la momie'. Gautier played a crucial role in the promotion of the aesthetic movement in France and explored themes of beauty and art in his writings.
Continue ReadingTiedemann Giese
Polish bishop and ecclesiastical leader
Born
June 1st, 1480 545 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1550 475 years ago — 70 years old
Tiedemann Giese served as a bishop in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth during the 16th century. Giese was a significant figure in the Catholic Church, acting from Prussia. He promoted the Counter-Reformation efforts within his diocese and supported various educational initiatives. Giese's tenure witnessed challenges tied to both theological disputes and the political landscape of the region. His contributions to church administration and his role in local ecclesiastical matters played a crucial part in the management of the diocese during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingCharles du Fresne
French philologist and historian
Born
December 18th, 1610 415 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 1688 337 years ago — 77 years old
A significant figure in the study of language and history, contributed to the understanding of Latin and medieval texts. Authored numerous works including the influential 'Glossarium'. His scholarly efforts established a foundation for philology and historical linguistics.
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