Claude Gauvreau
Canadian poet and playwright
A prominent figure in Canadian literature, this poet and playwright contributed significantly to the literary landscape. His works often explored themes of identity and the human condition, employing innovative structures and language. Notable literary contributions include the poetry collections and plays that reflect the complexities of contemporary life. Engaged in the Montreal literary scene, this individual participated in the creation of the experimental theater movement in Canada.
Authored the poetry collection 'Écritures'
Wrote the play 'Les Irresponsables'
Other People Born on August 19th
Hazari Prasad Dwivedi
Indian historian and author
Born
August 19th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent historian and author, dedicated significant work to Indian history and culture. Contributed to Hindi literature and advocated for the preservation of Indian historical narratives. Engaged in research and documentation that highlighted the socio-cultural dynamics of Indian society. Worked actively in the academic sphere, shaping historical discourse through writings and lectures during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingRose Heilbron
British barrister and judge
Born
August 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
Graduated from the University of Liverpool with a law degree. Became one of the first female barristers in the UK in 1944, achieving significant milestones in a male-dominated field. Appointed as a judge in the Family Division of the High Court in 1979. Played a crucial role in several notable cases, particularly in family law. Served as the first female leader of the Bar Council and helped pave the way for women in law.
Continue ReadingJosé Mendes Cabeçadas
Portuguese admiral and politician
Born
August 19th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1965 60 years ago — 81 years old
An admiral in the Portuguese Navy, served as the 9th President of Portugal from 1926 to 1926. Played a significant role during the military coup of 1926 that led to the establishment of a military dictatorship in Portugal. Before becoming president, held various naval leadership positions and contributed to military strategies. Resigned from presidency shortly after taking office due to political pressure.
Continue ReadingDorothy Burr Thompson
Archaeologist and art historian
Born
August 19th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 101 years old
This individual contributed significantly to the field of archaeology and art history, focusing on ancient cultures and artifacts. Extensive research on the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome highlighted the importance of historical context in artistic evaluation. This person's fieldwork in Italy and Greece provided valuable insights into the cultural heritage of these regions. Publications included analyses and interpretations of various archaeological findings, enriching the academic discourse surrounding ancient civilizations. Teaching roles at esteemed institutions helped to educate future generations of archaeologists and art historians.
Continue ReadingFred Stone
Actor and producer known for Broadway
Born
August 19th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1959 67 years ago — 86 years old
An American actor and producer gained recognition for performances in Broadway productions. Showcased in several musicals, played a significant role in the theatrical scene during the early 20th century. Participated in touring shows, and contributed to the transition of performance arts in America. Worked in both silent film and talkies, illustrating versatility across different media. Gained acclaim for being part of the original cast of 'The Wizard of Oz' on stage, leaving a lasting legacy in American theatre.
Continue ReadingRing Lardner Jr.
American journalist and screenwriter
Born
August 19th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2000 25 years ago — 85 years old
A journalist and screenwriter, gained recognition for contributions to film and literature. Contributed to the screenplay of 'Woman of the Year', which earned an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. His work in journalism included writing for notable publications, showcasing skills in satire and humor. Involved in the Hollywood blacklist era due to political beliefs, which affected his career during the 1950s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 7th
Lillian Copeland
Discus thrower and shot putter
Born
November 25th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1964 61 years ago — 59 years old
Competed in track and field, specializing in discus throw and shot put. Achieved significant recognition in the 1920s and 1930s. Won a silver medal in the discus at the 1932 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Set multiple national records in both discus and shot put throughout her athletic career.
Continue ReadingBenedict XI
Pope with papal bull addressing issues
Born
1240 786 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1304 721 years ago — 64 years old
Served as pope from 1303 until death in 1304. Undertook efforts to resolve conflicts within the church and restore unity after a period of strife and political maneuvering. Issued several significant papal bulls that addressed matters of church governance and jurisdiction. His brief papacy also focused on maintaining peace with various factions within Christendom and addressing the challenges posed by secular rulers. Worked towards a conciliatory relationship with the Franciscan Order concerning the controversy surrounding poverty.
Continue ReadingMoshood Abiola
Nigerian businessman and politician
Born
August 24th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1998 27 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent businessman and politician in Nigeria, played a significant role in the country's democratic movement. Abiola was the founder of the Abiola Group, which was instrumental in various sectors including media and manufacturing. In 1993, he won the presidential election, which was later annulled by the military government. His activism for democracy led to his imprisonment, which garnered international attention. Abiola's efforts contributed to the eventual return to civilian rule in Nigeria during the late 1990s.
Continue ReadingSigismund II Augustus
King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania
Born
1520 506 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1572 453 years ago — 52 years old
Ruled as the last king of the Jagiellonian dynasty from 1548 until death in 1572. Reigned over Poland and Lithuania during a period of significant political change, including the Union of Lublin in 1569, which unified the two states into a single commonwealth. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen central authority and promote economic development. Undertook initiatives to enhance the cultural and political landscape of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
Continue ReadingPeter Underwood
English parapsychologist and author
Born
May 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1923, a parapsychologist and author focused on investigating paranormal phenomena and the afterlife. Contributed to the field through numerous writings and research initiatives, including comprehensive studies on ghosts and hauntings. Served as the president of the Ghost Club, an organization dedicated to paranormal research. Authored several books that explore these subjects, combining personal experiences with investigative methods. Engaged in public discussions and lectures about parapsychology, aiming to raise awareness and promote understanding of the field.
Continue ReadingJane McAlevey
Labor Organizer and Author
Born
1964 62 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 60 years old
Worked as a prominent labor organizer advocating for workers' rights. Authored several influential books focusing on labor movements and union strategies. Developed initiatives that strengthened labor unions and mobilized workers across various sectors. Contributed to numerous campaigns aimed at improving workplace conditions and fair wages.
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