Charles Fort
American author of anomalous phenomena
An American author and researcher focused on unexplained phenomena, contributions included the investigation of fortuitous events and anomalies. Authored several books that compiled odd occurrences, such as 'The Book of the Damned', which examined anomalies dismissed by science. Influence extended to modern skeptics and paranormal enthusiasts, popularizing the collection of strange and unexplained events. Founded the term 'anomalist' to describe those studying non-conventional topics.
Authored 'The Book of the Damned'
Pioneered the field of anomalistic research
Established the term 'anomalist'
Other People Born on August 6th
Louella Parsons
Journalist and Hollywood columnist
Born
August 6th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1972 53 years ago — 91 years old
Parsons began her career in journalism with the New York Evening Journal. She transitioned to Hollywood, where she became a prominent gossip columnist. Her column, which appeared in numerous newspapers, provided insight into the lives of celebrities and the film industry. Parsons was influential in shaping public perception of Hollywood figures, and her connections allowed her to break many significant stories in the entertainment world. Throughout her career, Parsons contributed to various magazines and served as a radio host, further extending her reach and influence in the media.
Continue ReadingOctavio Getino
Filmmaker and screenwriter of 'The Hour of the Furnaces'
Born
August 6th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 77 years old
A significant figure in cinema and a prominent director, this individual contributed to the Latin American film movement. Co-directed 'The Hour of the Furnaces,' a landmark film that explored social issues in Argentina and Latin America. With a focus on political themes, also engaged in theoretical writings about cinema, linking film to social transformation. Worked closely with other filmmakers to promote necessary changes in the film industry, advocating for a new wave of cinema in the region. Throughout a career spanning several decades, emphasized the importance of film as a tool for social commentary.
Continue ReadingPaul Bartel
Actor and director of Eating Raoul
Born
August 6th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2000 25 years ago — 61 years old
An American actor, director, and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to film and television. Gained prominence in the 1980s with the cult classic film 'Eating Raoul,' which served as both a satirical comedy and a critique of societal norms. Worked on numerous television series, including 'The Brady Bunch' and 'The Twilight Zone.' Involved in various film projects, including 'Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills' and 'Death Race 2000.' Bartel's career spanned several decades, showcasing talents behind the camera and in acting roles.
Continue ReadingLuc de Clapiers
French author and philosopher
Born
August 6th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1747 278 years ago — 31 years old
Born in 1715, one of the notable figures of French literature in the 18th century, produced a body of work that reflected on human nature and morality. Focused on the intricacies of the human experience, authored several essays and letters which explored themes of pride, friendship, and social conduct. Despite a career cut short by ill health, left a lasting legacy through the philosophical insights present in writings. Works contributed to the discourse on Enlightenment thought and the nature of society, influencing later generations of thinkers.
Continue ReadingAlfred Lord Tennyson
English poet, Poet Laureate of the UK
Born
August 6th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1892 133 years ago — 83 years old
This individual was a prominent English poet who served as Poet Laureate during much of Queen Victoria's reign. With a prolific career, produced several celebrated works that captured the imagination of readers across generations. Major themes included love, nature, and mythology. The poem 'The Charge of the Light Brigade' highlighted both valor and folly, gaining significant attention for its vivid imagery and somber reflection on war. 'In Memoriam A.H.H.' expressed profound grief and is considered a landmark work in elegiac poetry. Tennyson's contributions shaped the landscape of Victorian literature and influenced future poets.
Continue ReadingHerb Moford
American baseball player, MLB pitcher
Born
August 6th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 2005 20 years ago — 77 years old
This individual played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted in the league on September 17, 1956, and concluded the career in 1961. Played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs during the tenure. Achieved a total of 15 wins and maintained an earned run average of 4.30 over the career spanning five seasons.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 3rd
Jerzy Kosiński
Novelist and screenwriter; 'The Painted Bird'
Born
June 14th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1991 34 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Poland, a notable figure in literature, focusing on themes of identity and survival. Emigrated to the United States post-World War II. Gained recognition with the novel 'The Painted Bird', a harrowing tale of a young boy's experiences during the Holocaust. Also authored 'Being There', which was adapted into a successful film starring Peter Sellers. Wrote several other novels and screenplays, exploring complex characters and societal issues. Received various accolades for literary contributions.
Continue ReadingErnst Tandefelt
Finnish assassin of Heikki Ritavuori
Born
1876 149 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1948 77 years ago — 72 years old
Assassinated a prominent figure in Finland, leading to significant controversy. Involved in political intrigue during a tumultuous period in Finnish history. Faced legal consequences for actions taken, which sparked debates about the ethics of political violence.
Continue ReadingAlex Kellner
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
August 26th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1996 29 years ago — 71 years old
A professional baseball player, primarily served as a pitcher during the 1940s and 1950s. Played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the Kansas City Athletics in Major League Baseball. Participated in the league for parts of ten seasons, establishing a reputation as a reliable left-handed pitcher. Contributed to the team's efforts in the American League.
Continue ReadingJessie Willcox Smith
Illustrator of children's books
Born
September 6th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1935 90 years ago — 71 years old
An American illustrator, recognized for work in children's literature and magazines during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Contributions included illustrations for well-known books such as 'Little Women' and 'A Child's Garden of Verses'. Collaborated with prominent authors and published illustrations in magazines like 'Ladies' Home Journal' and 'Scribner's'. Smith's distinctive style featured soft colors and emotional depth, appealing to both children and adults.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Ignaz Franz Biber
Violinist and composer of the Rosary Sonatas
Born
August 12th, 1644 381 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1704 321 years ago — 59 years old
Biber served as a composer and violinist in the 17th century. Born in Bohemia, he spent a significant portion of his career in Austria. Biber developed a unique style that combined elements of the Baroque with folk influences. His work included sacred music and instrumental compositions. The Rosary Sonatas, a set of fifteen sonatas for violin and continuo, remain one of his most significant contributions to classical music, showcasing innovative violin techniques and rich harmonic structures. Biber held the position of court composer for several influential archbishops during his time in Salzburg.
Continue ReadingAntipope Alexander V
Antipope during the Western Schism
Died
May 3rd, 1410 615 years ago — None years old
Served as antipope from 1409 until death in 1410. Elected during the Council of Pisa, which aimed to resolve the Western Schism and address issues of church leadership. His election was contested and led to a complex period of multiple claimants to the papacy. Although his tenure was brief, he was acknowledged by some Christian factions which sought to reunify the Church under one leader. His papacy contributed to the ongoing debates and conflicts over ecclesiastical authority in the era.
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