David Foster Wallace
American novelist and essayist
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An American novelist, short story writer, and essayist, contributed significantly to contemporary literature. Published the acclaimed novel 'Infinite Jest' in 1996, which delves into themes of addiction and entertainment culture. Authored several collections of essays, including 'A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again,' showcasing sharp insights into modern life and culture. Taught English and creative writing at several universities. Wallace's unique narrative style and exploration of complex topics has left a lasting legacy in American literature.
Published 'Infinite Jest' in 1996
Wrote 'A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again'
Other People Born on February 21st
Rue McClanahan
American actress, 'The Golden Girls'
Born
February 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2010 15 years ago — 76 years old
An American actress, recognized for contributions to television and theater. Gained widespread recognition for the role of Blanche Devereaux on the sitcom 'The Golden Girls', which aired from 1985 to 1992. Also appeared in notable series such as 'Maude' and 'Empty Nest'. For stage performances, received acclaim in various productions, including 'The Dixie Swim Club'. Awards included an Emmy Award in 1977 for 'Maude'.
Continue ReadingAlan Trammell
Baseball player and manager for the Tigers
Born
February 21st, 1958 67 years ago
Played shortstop for the Detroit Tigers from 1977 to 1996, contributing to the team during its 1984 World Series championship. Transitioned to coaching and managing, leading the Tigers for part of the 2014 season. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018, recognizing a successful career in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingTony Martin
Historian and academic focusing on African studies
Born
February 21st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
Born in Trinidad and Tobago and later based in the United States, significant contributions to African studies and Caribbean history were made. Held academic positions at various institutions and authored numerous works. A prominent figure in promoting awareness of African history and culture. Advocated for the inclusion of African and Caribbean perspectives in education. Developed a notable curriculum emphasizing the importance of these histories.
Continue ReadingErma Bombeck
American journalist and humorist
Born
February 21st, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1996 29 years ago — 69 years old
Journalist and humorist gained recognition through witty and relatable writing about domestic life and motherhood. Started a career in journalism, contributing to local newspapers. Began writing a column titled 'At Wit’s End,' which reached millions of readers across the United States. Authored several best-selling books, including 'The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank' and 'If Life Is a Bowl of Cherries, What Am I Doing in the Pits?' Her work highlighted the humorous aspects of suburban family life. Involved in various social causes and advocated for women's rights, showcasing the struggles and joys of homemaking.
Continue ReadingSacha Guitry
Playwright and director of 'Don Juan'
Born
February 21st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1957 68 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1885, a prominent actor, director, and playwright emerged from the Russian-French cultural milieu. Achievements included writing numerous successful plays that blended wit and complex characters, reflecting the intricacies of human relationships. Directed and starred in films, contributing to the evolution of French cinema during the early 20th century. Notable works include the play 'Don Juan' and films such as 'The Story of a Cheat.' His influence extended to the theatrical styles of the time, integrating innovative techniques that shaped the French stage.
Continue ReadingKenneth J. Alford
Bandmaster and composer of marches
Born
February 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1945 80 years ago — 64 years old
A significant figure in military music, contributed extensively to the genre of military marches. Composed many well-regarded pieces, including 'Colonel Bogey March', which gained international fame. Served as a bandmaster in the British Army, where leadership in various military bands was demonstrated. His work has inspired generations of musicians and remains popular in both military and civilian music circles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 12th
Norman Borlaug
Agronomist and Nobel Peace Prize winner
Born
March 25th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2009 16 years ago — 95 years old
This agronomist significantly advanced agricultural science and food production. Work in developing high-yielding, disease-resistant wheat varieties contributed to the Green Revolution, leading to increased agricultural output in countries like Mexico, India, and Pakistan. Advocacy for sustainable farming practices and efforts to alleviate hunger and poverty were central to activities. The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded in recognition of contributions to alleviating hunger worldwide.
Continue ReadingJean-Philippe Rameau
French composer and music theorist
Born
September 25th, 1683 342 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1764 261 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent French composer and music theorist, contributions to the Baroque music era greatly influenced the development of opera and music theory. Rameau's compositions showcased innovative orchestration and harmonic language that set the groundwork for future generations. He published significant theoretical works on music, including 'Traité de l'harmonie' which laid the foundation for modern harmonic theory. Rameau's operas, including 'Hippolyte et Aricie', established him as a leading figure in French opera, blending dramatic and musical elements into a cohesive form.
Continue ReadingErik Adolf von Willebrand
Finnish physician and hematologist
Born
February 1st, 1870 156 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1949 76 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of hematology, specifically in the study of bleeding disorders. Developed the concept of von Willebrand disease, a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of the von Willebrand factor. Conducted extensive research and published findings that laid the foundation for understanding hemophilia and similar conditions. Educated and influenced future generations of physicians and researchers through clinical practice and academic contributions.
Continue ReadingAlexander Galimov
Ice Hockey Player for Avangard Omsk
Born
1985 41 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 26 years old
Played professional ice hockey primarily for Avangard Omsk in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Made a significant contribution to the team from 2005 until 2011. Participated in international competitions representing Russia. Tragically passed away in a plane crash in September 2011, which claimed the lives of many members of the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey team.
Continue ReadingEleanora Atherton
English philanthropist and social reformer
Born
February 14th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1870 155 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1782, a notable philanthropist focused on improving the lives of the poor and advocating for social reform. Involved in various charitable endeavors, she established several institutions aimed at providing education and support to those in need. Committed to women's rights, she worked alongside contemporaries to promote access to education for girls. Her efforts contributed significantly to the development of social welfare programs in England during the early 19th century.
Continue ReadingIan Paisley
Northern Irish politician and minister
Born
April 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
An evangelical minister and politician from Northern Ireland, served as the 2nd First Minister of Northern Ireland. Founded the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) in 1971 and held various political positions. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Northern Ireland, particularly during the Troubles. Advocated for unionism and took part in negotiations that led to the establishment of the Northern Ireland Assembly in 1998.
Continue Reading