Christopher Hitchens

Essayist, critic, and journalist

Christopher Hitchens - Essayist, critic, and journalist
Born

April 13th, 1949
76 years ago

Died

December 15th, 2011
13 years ago — 62 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An English-American essayist, literary critic, and journalist, this individual wrote extensively on politics, religion, and culture. With a sharp wit and provocative style, writings appeared in various publications, including Vanity Fair and The Atlantic. Authored several influential books, among them 'God Is Not Great,' which critiques religion. Engaged in public debates on topics such as atheism and free speech. A prominent figure in the New Atheism movement, he participated in discussions alongside Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris, contributing to conversations around secularism and belief systems.

Authored 'God Is Not Great'

Wrote for Vanity Fair and The Atlantic

Other People Born on April 13th

Seamus Heaney

Irish Poet and Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
April 13th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Northern Ireland, a prominent poet and playwright, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. The work often explored themes of nature, history, and personal memory. Gained considerable acclaim for the collection 'Death of a Naturalist', which received the Geoffrey Faber Memorial Prize. Won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995 for works that unite lyrical beauty with deep human experiences. Also served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing a new generation of writers and poets.

Continue Reading

Jacques Lacan

French psychiatrist and psychoanalyst
Born
April 13th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1981 44 years ago — 80 years old

A psychiatrist and psychoanalyst associated with the development of psychoanalytic theory. Lacan's work emphasized the importance of language and its structure in the unconscious. He established the School of Psychoanalysis in Paris and played a significant role in the revival of interest in Freud's concepts, adapting them for contemporary relevance. Lectures and seminars delivered throughout his career explored the relationship between psychoanalysis and linguistics, and he developed the idea of the 'mirror stage' in child development. Lacan's theories significantly influenced psychology and cultural studies worldwide.

Continue Reading

Glenn Howerton

American actor in sitcoms
Born
April 13th, 1976 49 years ago

An American actor gained prominence through roles in popular television series. Played the character Dennis Reynolds in the long-running sitcom It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, contributing to its success and critical acclaim. Also appeared in the series Fargo, showcasing versatility in performance. Expanded work into writing and producing, enhancing contributions to the television industry.

Continue Reading

Maurice Buckley

Australian sergeant in World War I
Born
April 13th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1921 104 years ago — 29 years old

Served as a sergeant in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I. Participated in significant battles, including the Battle of the Somme. Demonstrated leadership and bravery in combat situations. Wounded in action, contributing to the war efforts through service in the trenches. His tenure ended with his death in 1921, marking a significant period in Australian military history.

Continue Reading

György Lukács

Hungarian philosopher and literary critic
Born
April 13th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1971 54 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1885 in Hungary, a significant philosophical figure primarily associated with Marxist theory and aesthetics. Contributed to the field of literary criticism, emphasizing the relationship between literature and society. Engaged in cultural and political debates, shaping the theoretical understanding of realism in literature. His work 'History and Class Consciousness' is considered essential in Marxist philosophy. Later, he became involved in Hungarian politics and cultural life during the post-World War II period.

Continue Reading

John W. Davis

United States Solicitor General
Born
April 13th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 14th United States Solicitor General. Davis had a prominent legal career and was involved in several significant cases before the Supreme Court. He also held the position of chairman of the Democratic National Committee during the 1920s. His legal advocacy included work on important issues of civil rights and civil liberties. Davis ran for President of the United States in 1924 but was not elected.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 15th

Li Siyuan

Chinese emperor during Five Dynasties
Born
October 10th, 867 1157 years ago
Died
December 15th, 933 1091 years ago — 66 years old

Ruled as emperor during the tumultuous Five Dynasties period in China. Established the Later Tang dynasty, consolidating power in Northern China. Known for his efforts in restoring order and stability across the region after years of fragmentation and conflict. Oversaw cultural and military developments, contributing to the governance of the empire.

Continue Reading

Izaak Walton

English author and angling writer
Born
1593 432 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1683 341 years ago — 90 years old

An author from England, recognized for contributions to literature on angling and natural history. Published the seminal work 'The Compleat Angler' in 1653, which combined practical fishing advice with contemplative prose. The book is often regarded as a classic in outdoor literature and has influenced generations of anglers. Walton also penned biographies of notable figures, including a life of Richard Hooker, enhancing the understanding of church history. His writings reflect a deep appreciation for nature and the art of fishing.

Continue Reading

George Hickes

English minister and scholar
Born
June 20th, 1642 383 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1715 309 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a prominent English minister and scholar in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Contributed significantly to the study of languages and literature, especially in connection with Anglicans and Dissenters. Edited and published various works, including theological treatises and academic writings. Held the position of Dean of Worcester and became the first Archbishop of York. Played a crucial role in the development of Anglican scholarship.

Continue Reading

William Proxmire

American politician and journalist
Born
November 11th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2005 19 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1957 to 1989. Known for his persistent efforts to reduce government waste and spending. Utilized the Golden Fleece Award to highlight wasteful government projects. Proxmire was also a member of the U.S. Army during World War II and engaged in journalism after the war. Advocated for various social issues throughout his political career.

Continue Reading

Wilfred Kitching

General of The Salvation Army
Born
August 22nd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1977 47 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 7th General of The Salvation Army from 1963 until retirement in 1974. Held a prominent leadership role within the organization, guiding its mission and initiatives during a period of significant change. Focused on expanding outreach to communities in need and strengthening the organization's global presence. Oversaw various programs aimed at social welfare and spiritual support, and promoted the core principles of the Salvation Army.

Continue Reading

M. Balasundaram

Sri Lankan lawyer and politician
Born
April 7th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1965 59 years ago — 62 years old

Contributed significantly to Sri Lanka's political landscape and legal framework during the mid-20th century. Engaged in various political movements advocating for civil rights and legal reform. Played a prominent role in the country's legislative processes and served in key political positions. Actively participated in the struggle for governance and representation in Sri Lankan society.

Continue Reading