Cornelia Funke
German-American author of children's fantasy
An author recognized for contributions to children's literature, particularly in the fantasy genre. Achievements include the popular 'Inkheart' trilogy, which features a plot intertwining literature and reality. Other works include 'The Thief Lord' and 'Dragon Rider', which gained significant acclaim. Funke writes primarily in German and English, reflecting a blend of cultures and storytelling traditions. The author has received multiple awards for writing, including the prestigious BookSense Book of the Year Award, highlighting the success and reach of her literary works.
Authored the 'Inkheart' trilogy
Wrote 'The Thief Lord'
Created 'Dragon Rider'
Other People Born on December 10th
Kyu Sakamoto
Japanese singer and actor, 'Ue o Muite Arukou'
Born
December 10th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1985 40 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1941, Sakamoto gained wide popularity as a singer and actor in Japan. His single 'Ue o Muite Arukou,' released in 1961, achieved international success, topping charts in several countries. The song's English version, titled 'Sukiyaki,' became a global hit and was notably the first Japanese song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Sakamoto also pursued an acting career, starring in various films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. His contributions to music and entertainment left a lasting legacy in Japanese pop culture.
Continue ReadingCarolyn Kizer
American poet and academic, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
December 10th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent American poet and academic, achieved significant recognition in the literary world. Authored several celebrated poetry collections, including 'Yin' and 'The Martyr'. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing a generation of writers. Kizer was a driving force in the establishment of the literary community in the West Coast and was an early advocate for feminist themes in poetry.
Continue ReadingWilliam Lloyd Garrison
Abolitionist journalist and activist
Born
December 10th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1879 146 years ago — 73 years old
Owned and published the abolitionist newspaper, The Liberator, which advocated for the immediate emancipation of enslaved individuals. Co-founded the American Anti-Slavery Society to mobilize public opinion against slavery and promote civil rights. Worked tirelessly for women's rights, aligning with other reform movements of the time. Played a significant role in the abolitionist movement, influencing public discourse through powerful speeches and writings.
Continue ReadingAnatoli Tarasov
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
December 10th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old
An influential figure in ice hockey, contributions spanned playing and coaching. Played for the Soviet Union and was pivotal in developing the sport in the country. Established coaching techniques that emphasized team play and skill development. Led coaching duties for the Soviet national team, achieving significant success during the 1960s and 1970s, including multiple World Championships and Olympic gold medals.
Continue ReadingClorindo Testa
Architect known for modernist designs
Born
December 10th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
An Italian-Argentinian architect contributed to modern architecture through significant projects in Argentina and abroad. Emphasized functionalism and incorporated elements of local culture in designs. Worked on notable projects such as the Ramos Mejía Hospital and the Sicardi House, blending innovative ideas with contemporary forms. Co-founded the Latin American architecture group, formed the basis for a new architectural narrative in Latin America, and left a lasting legacy through teaching and architectural critique.
Continue ReadingHarold Alexander
Field Marshal and Governor General of Canada
Born
December 10th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1969 56 years ago — 77 years old
Born on December 10, 1891, a significant military leader who served in both World Wars. Achieved the rank of field marshal in the British Army and notably commanded the 18th Army Group during the Italian Campaign in World War II. Following military service, took on the role of the 17th Governor General of Canada from 1946 to 1952, representing the monarch and carrying out ceremonial duties. Contributions to military strategy and governance marked a notable military and political career.
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