Damon Knight
Author and critic of science fiction
Led a significant career as an author and critic within the science fiction genre. Founded the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, providing support for writers in these fields. Contributed reviews and essays to various publications, shaping the perception of science fiction literature. Authored several notable works, including 'The World and the Door' and 'The Other Side of the Moon', which explored complex themes and innovative ideas.
Founded the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America
Authored 'The World and the Door'
Contributed critical essays to science fiction
Other People Born on September 19th
Brian Epstein
Music manager and Beatles' promoter
Born
September 19th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1967 58 years ago — 32 years old
A prominent music manager, played a crucial role in the rise of a legendary rock band. Managed the Beatles, significantly shaping their early career and helping them achieve unprecedented global success. Through innovative marketing strategies and keen business acumen, helped the Beatles secure their first record deal in 1962. Influenced the music industry with a focus on image and presentation, transforming how artists approached their public personas.
Continue ReadingWilliam Robertson
Scottish historian and author of works
Born
September 19th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
1793 232 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1721, a significant Scottish historian, contributed to historical literature with influential works. Focused on subjects such as Scotland's history and the history of America. Served as principal of the University of Edinburgh and published several important texts, which garnered attention and established a scholarly reputation. Worked on narratives that addressed the growth of empires and the history of the American Revolution.
Continue ReadingSarah Louise Delany
Author and educator, 'Having Our Say'
Born
September 19th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1999 26 years ago — 109 years old
An author and educator, contributions included co-authoring the memoir 'Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years' with her sister, which detailed their experiences growing up in the segregated South. Delany served as a teacher and was dedicated to education throughout her career. The memoir became a bestseller and was adapted into a play, helping to bring attention to the lives of African American women in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingPablita Velarde
Native American painter and muralist
Born
September 19th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old
A Santa Clara Pueblo artist focused on preserving Native American culture through art. Specializing in traditional Pueblo pottery and painting, gained recognition for contributing to the revival of Pueblo style painting. Worked on significant murals that depict the history and stories of the Santa Clara Pueblo people. Received numerous awards, including being the first woman to receive a fellowship from the New Mexico Community Foundation.
Continue ReadingStefanie Zweig
German journalist and author
Born
September 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributions included novels and non-fiction that often explored themes related to identity and culture. The literary career began with published works that garnered attention within Germany. The novel 'Heller als der Tag' achieved widespread recognition, addressing the complexities of post-war Germany. Additionally, autobiographical reflections focused on childhood experiences during the Nazi regime, linking personal narratives to broader historical contexts. A strong presence in print media established a reputation as a thoughtful commentator on social issues and cultural phenomena.
Continue ReadingMaria Anna of Savoy
Queen of the Two Sicilies
Born
September 19th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1884 141 years ago — 81 years old
Born into the House of Savoy, Maria Anna of Savoy became Queen of the Two Sicilies by marriage. She married King Ferdinand II in 1823, strengthening ties between the Savoy dynasty and the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Maria Anna played a significant role in the royal court and was involved in charitable works during her reign, which saw substantial political and social changes. After Ferdinand's passing, she faced challenges adapting to the complex political landscape of the kingdom. Her life was marked by the turbulent events that eventually led to the unification of Italy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 15th
Vittorio Taviani
Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
September 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2018 7 years ago — 88 years old
Taviani was an Italian film director and screenwriter recognized for contributions to cinema from the 1960s onward. His works often explored themes of social justice and human rights, frequently collaborating with his brother Paolo. Highlights include 'Padre Padrone', which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1977, and 'Kaos', an acclaimed film that adapts stories from Luigi Pirandello. The Taviani brothers established a distinctive style that blended realism and poetic imagery, leaving a significant mark on Italian filmmaking. Their films gained recognition for their artistic merit and often reflected historical and political contexts.
Continue ReadingMatthew Arnold
English poet and literary critic.
Born
December 24th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1888 137 years ago — 65 years old
An influential poet and literary critic in 19th century England, contributed significantly to English poetry and educational reform. Authored notable works like 'Dover Beach' and 'The Scholar-Gipsy,' showcasing a blend of lyrical beauty and philosophical themes. Offered critical insights through essays on culture and society, notably in 'Culture and Anarchy'. Served as an inspector of schools, advocating for educational improvement and public access to literature.
Continue ReadingFrançoise d'Aubigné
French Royalty and Marquise de Maintenon
Born
November 27th, 1635 390 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1719 306 years ago — 83 years old
Born into a modest family, entered the service of the future king of France as a lady-in-waiting. Became the second wife of Louis XIV after a long relationship, largely hidden from court life. Established a prominent position within the royal court, wielding influence over the king's decisions, particularly in religious matters. Established the Saint-Cyr school for poor girls, promoting education and moral discipline. Strived to reconcile the king's policies with the Jansenist movement, reflecting her strong religious convictions.
Continue ReadingRosalba Carriera
Italian painter known for pastels
Born
January 12th, 1673 352 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1757 268 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1673, this artist became a prominent figure in the Venetian painting scene, specializing in pastel portraits. She gained recognition for her innovative use of pastels, which showcased her ability to capture the essence of her subjects. Carriera's works reflected the beauty and elegance of the Rococo style, earning her a significant place in art history. Her popularity extended beyond Italy, influencing a number of artists across Europe. She also produced a number of decorative works and took part in various exhibitions, solidifying her status as one of the leading female artists of her time.
Continue ReadingFather Damien
Flemish missionary and priest
Born
January 3rd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1889 136 years ago — 49 years old
A priest and missionary served in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Molokai. Established a settlement for individuals afflicted with leprosy and dedicated life to providing care and support to those marginalized by society. Advocated for better living conditions and worked to improve the overall treatment of patients. The work during this period highlighted the challenges faced by those with leprosy and brought international attention to their plight.
Continue ReadingRobert Persons
Jesuit priest and author of resistance texts
Born
June 24th, 1546 479 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1610 415 years ago — 63 years old
An English Jesuit priest and author played a significant role in the Catholic resistance during the Elizabethan era. Engaged in efforts against Protestant rule, focused on the promotion of Catholicism in England. Established Jesuit missions and advocated for insurrection against the state to restore Catholic governance. Wrote extensively on religious and political themes, influencing the resistance through pamphlets and treatises. Contributed to the foundation of the English College at Rome, which trained priests for missionary work in England. His writings reflected his opposition to the English crown and Elizabeth I's policies, revealing the influence of Jesuit thinking in the theological debates of the time.
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