Daphne du Maurier
English novelist, playwright, and biographer
One of the most prominent British authors, this writer gained recognition for crafting suspenseful and intricately woven narratives, often blending elements of the gothic and romantic genres. Major works include the novel 'Rebecca', which explores themes of identity and jealousy within a haunting narrative set in Cornwall. Other significant works, such as 'Jamaica Inn' and 'Frenchman's Creek', also received acclaim and contributed to her reputation as a leading novelist of the 20th century. In addition to novels, this author wrote plays and short stories, and her works have been adapted into numerous films and stage productions, further solidifying her legacy in literature.
Authored 'Rebecca', a classic gothic novel
Wrote 'Jamaica Inn' and 'Frenchman's Creek'
Other People Born on May 13th
Ronald Ross
Physician who discovered malaria's vector
Born
May 13th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1932 93 years ago — 75 years old
A physician and mathematician emerged as a prominent figure in the study of malaria. Conducted groundbreaking research on mosquito-borne diseases while working in India. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902 for discovering the life cycle of the malaria parasite within Anopheles mosquitoes. The work laid the foundation for malaria control and prevention methods, significantly influencing public health efforts worldwide. His contributions extended to various aspects of disease transmission and vector control, marking a milestone in the understanding of infectious diseases.
Continue ReadingAbby Dahlkemper
Professional soccer player, U.S. Women's National Team
Born
May 13th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional soccer player primarily known for playing as a defender. Played for the U.S. Women's National Team and participated in key international competitions including the FIFA Women's World Cup. Played for club teams such as the Western New York Flash and North Carolina Courage in the National Women's Soccer League, contributing to multiple championships. Achieved All-American honors during college soccer at UCLA, recognized for defensive skills and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingFakhruddin Ali Ahmed
Indian politician, 5th President of India
Born
May 13th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1977 49 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 5th President of India from 1974 until 1977. Represented the Indian National Congress and held various key positions in government before presiding over the country. Oversaw a significant period in India's political history during presidency. Focused on issues such as social justice and government reform while in office.
Continue ReadingRomelu Lukaku
Belgian footballer and goal scorer
Born
May 13th, 1993 32 years ago
Professional footballer born in Belgium, played as a striker. Started career at Anderlecht, where he won the Belgian Pro League. Moved to the Premier League, joining Chelsea, then loaned to West Bromwich Albion and Everton. Became a key player at Manchester United, winning the EFL Cup and UEFA Europa League. Joined Inter Milan, leading the team to victory in Serie A. Returned to Chelsea in 2021 before further loan stints. Contributed significantly to the Belgium national team, participating in multiple European Championships and World Cups.
Continue ReadingTyrann Mathieu
American football safety, Super Bowl Champion
Born
May 13th, 1992 33 years ago
Played as a safety in the National Football League (NFL) for teams including the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, and Kansas City Chiefs. Achieved significant recognition for performance in various seasons, culminating in a Super Bowl Championship with the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIV. Attended Louisiana State University, winning the prestigious Chuck Bednarik Award in 2011, recognizing excellence in college football defense. Noted for an aggressive playing style and strong coverage skills.
Continue ReadingCharles Watson-Wentworth
British Prime Minister, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham
Born
May 13th, 1730 295 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1782 243 years ago — 52 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain during two non-consecutive terms in the 18th century. His first term lasted from 1765 to 1766 and was marked by efforts to repeal the Stamp Act, which aimed to tax American colonies. The second term occurred from 1782 until his death in 1782, focusing on peace negotiations following the American Revolutionary War. Active in the Whig party, implemented policies that shaped British governance during a turbulent time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 19th
Hermine Braunsteiner
SS officer with war crimes conviction
Born
July 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1999 27 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a guard in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. Braunsteiner worked at several camps, including Majdanek and Auschwitz, where her role involved overseeing the treatment of prisoners. After the war, fled to the United States, where she lived until her past became known. In 1981, she was extradited to Germany to face charges for her actions during the Holocaust and was convicted in 1983 for assisting in the murders and mistreatment of prisoners.
Continue ReadingThomas Sackville
Earl of Dorset, poet, playwright, politician
Born
1536 490 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1608 418 years ago — 72 years old
First Earl of Dorset served as Lord High Treasurer of England. Contributed significantly to English literature as a poet and playwright. Worked closely with Queen Elizabeth I and maintained high political office throughout his career. Sackville is remembered for his involvement in the development of early English drama and poetry, particularly through works like 'Gorboduc,' which is considered one of the first English tragedies.
Continue ReadingPatricio Aylwin
Chilean politician and president
Born
November 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2016 10 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the President of Chile from 1990 to 1994. Played a crucial role in the transition from military dictatorship to democracy following the regime of Augusto Pinochet. Introduced measures to address human rights violations and foster economic recovery. Aylwin's leadership helped stabilize the country and paved the way for democratic governance after years of oppression.
Continue ReadingPaolo Veronese
Italian Renaissance painter with 'The Wedding at Cana'
Born
1528 498 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1588 438 years ago — 60 years old
An Italian painter of the Venetian school during the Renaissance, celebrated for his large-scale canvases that often depicted opulent scenes. Veronese trained initially under the academic rigor of the local masters but quickly adapted a distinctive style characterized by vibrant color palettes and complex compositions. His works frequently focused on historical and mythological themes, embracing grandeur and theatricality. The 1563 masterpiece 'The Wedding at Cana' showcases his ability to blend religious subjects with elaborate architectural backgrounds and intricate detailing, symbolizing the celebratory and festive spirit of the era. Veronese's artistry also received criticism from the Inquisition, exemplifying the tension between creative expression and religious interpretation during the period.
Continue ReadingFrançois Jacob
Biologist & Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2013 13 years ago — 92 years old
A French biologist contributed significantly to molecular biology. Focused on the regulation of gene expression, worked on the concept of operons, which are clusters of genes controlled by a single promoter. Collaborated with Jacques Monod in research that elucidated how cells respond to environmental changes. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1965 along with Monod and Andre Lwoff for discoveries concerning genetic control of enzyme and virus synthesis.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Cassel
French actor in French cinema
Born
October 27th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
April 19th, 2007 19 years ago — 74 years old
An accomplished actor featured primarily in French cinema, contributions spanned several decades, with a range of roles in film and television. Gained recognition for performances in popular works, including the film 'Le Grand Blond avec une chaussure noire' and the period drama 'The Great Spy Chase.' Demonstrated versatility across genres, portraying both comedic and dramatic characters throughout a prolific career.
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