Charles Perrault
French author of classic fairy tales
Authored celebrated fairy tales including "Cinderella," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Little Red Riding Hood." Contributed to the development of the fairy tale genre in literature and helped to popularize storytelling for children. In 1697, published "Histoires ou contes du temps passé," which compiled these tales, making them widely accessible and influential in European literature.
Authored "Cinderella"
Authored "Sleeping Beauty"
Authored "Little Red Riding Hood"
Other People Born on January 12th
Kirstie Alley
American actress from 'Cheers' fame
Born
January 12th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2022 3 years ago — 71 years old
An American actress and producer, recognized for significant roles in television and film during the 1980s and 1990s. Gained prominence for portraying Rebecca Howe on the sitcom 'Cheers,' which aired from 1987 to 1993. Received critical acclaim and several awards for her performance, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Special for 'The Last Don.' Also starred in the 'Look Who's Talking' film series, which contributed to her popularity. In addition to acting, engaged in various production projects throughout her career, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingJunichi Masuda
Japanese video game director, composer
Born
January 12th, 1968 58 years ago
Director, producer, and composer in the video game industry. Started career at Game Freak, contributing to the Pokémon series. Developed and directed several core Pokémon games, overseeing their growth from simple beginnings to a global franchise. Also composed music for many titles in the series, enhancing the gaming experience with memorable soundtracks. Contributed to the development of spin-off games and additional media related to Pokémon. Played a key role in the evolution of the franchise, implementing new features and innovations in gameplay.
Continue ReadingAmerie
Singer-songwriter with '1 Thing'
Born
January 12th, 1980 46 years ago
An American singer-songwriter, producer, and writer emerged in the early 2000s, gaining prominence with the release of the hit single '1 Thing' from the album 'Touch.' This work showcased a distinctive blend of R&B and hip-hop elements. The artist's debut album, 'All I Have,' also received critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination. Beyond music, involvement in writing and production illustrated versatility and creativity in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingNando Reis
Brazilian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
January 12th, 1963 63 years ago
A prominent Brazilian singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, originated from São Paulo. Formed the rock group Titãs in the 1980s, contributing to their success in the Brazilian music scene. Later embarked on a successful solo career, blending rock, MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), and other genres. Released several albums, with notable works including 'Para Quando o Arco-Íris Encontrar o Pote de Ouro' and 'Jardim-Pomar'. Collaborated with various artists, enhancing both his and their reach in the music industry. His songwriting has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Continue ReadingAllisha Gray
Basketball player, WNBA Champion
Born
January 12th, 1995 31 years ago
A professional basketball player, played for the Dallas Wings and the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA. Contributed to the championship victory of the South Carolina Gamecocks in NCAA women's basketball. Achieved recognition for scoring ability and defensive skills throughout the career. Also earned a gold medal with the USA Women's U18 National Team.
Continue ReadingSwami Vivekananda
Indian monk and philosopher, Vedanta leader
Born
January 12th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1902 123 years ago — 39 years old
A key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. Played a significant role in the revival of Hinduism in India and the promotion of a universal approach to spirituality. Delivered a historic speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago in 1893, emphasizing tolerance and the acceptance of diverse religious practices. Founded the Ramakrishna Mission to provide social service and spiritual education. His teachings emphasized the importance of self-realization and the divinity within every individual.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
Chuck Brown
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in the development of go-go music, a subgenre of funk. Originated in Washington, D.C. and played a critical role in popularizing the style throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Brown's signature sound combined funk rhythms with a strong emphasis on live percussion and audience participation. Recorded numerous albums, with standout tracks like 'Bustin' Loose' achieving considerable success. His influence extended to other artists and genres, seamlessly blending funk, R&B, and hip-hop elements in performances.
Continue ReadingEliot Ness
Law enforcement agent and Prohibition agent
Born
April 19th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1957 68 years ago — 54 years old
Served in law enforcement during the Prohibition era and gained fame as the leader of the Untouchables, a special unit tasked with enforcing prohibition laws in Chicago. Targeted the notorious gangster Al Capone and played a significant role in his conviction for tax evasion. Later became Public Safety Director of Cleveland, where significant reforms were implemented in the police department and city safety policies. Authored an autobiography detailing experiences and obstacles faced in combating organized crime.
Continue ReadingHenri-Edmond Cross
Neo-Impressionist painter, Landscape artist
Born
May 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1910 115 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1856, this French painter contributed significantly to the Neo-Impressionism movement. Influenced by the technique of pointillism, created vibrant landscapes and scenes, often using color harmony and light to evoke emotion. Worked closely with other notable artists of the time and was associated with the Parisian art scene, exhibiting his works in major galleries. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, paintings reflected a transition towards more expressive and dynamic forms. Helped lay the groundwork for future modernist movements in art. Died in 1910.
Continue ReadingClemens Krauss
Conductor of the Vienna State Opera
Born
March 31st, 1893 133 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1954 71 years ago — 61 years old
Born in Austria, this conductor gained prominence in the early to mid-20th century, notably leading the Vienna State Opera and the Bavarian State Opera. Renowned for expertise in conducting operas, particularly those by Richard Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Worked extensively in both Germany and Austria, influencing the performances of many operatic masterpieces. Also served as a conductor for various orchestras across Europe, leaving a lasting legacy in classical music. Participated in conducting the first performance of Strauss's 'Ariadne auf Naxos' in 1916.
Continue ReadingMatthew Lewis
English author and playwright, The Monk
Born
July 9th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1818 207 years ago — 42 years old
An English author and playwright, this figure produced some of the early examples of Gothic literature. The most recognized work is the novel 'The Monk', published in 1796, which explores themes of desire, sin, and morality through its controversial depiction of a monk's descent into depravity. His other works included plays and novels that contributed to the literary landscape of the late 18th century, but none reached the same level of notoriety as 'The Monk'.
Continue ReadingJim Henson
Puppeteer and creator of The Muppets
Born
September 24th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1990 35 years ago — 53 years old
An American puppeteer, director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed to the entertainment industry through innovative puppet creations. Creator of The Muppets, which gained worldwide acclaim through television and film. Developed iconic characters such as Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Founded the Jim Henson Company, expanding the artistic realm of puppetry in both children's programming and adult entertainment. Established a legacy in puppetry that influenced generations of performers and creators.
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