Denys Lasdun
Architect, co-designed Royal National Theatre
An English architect focused on modernist architecture and design. Co-designed the Royal National Theatre in London, a landmark example of brutalist architecture. His work emphasized the relationship between buildings and their surroundings, often integrating landscape into architectural forms. Worked on various educational buildings, cultural institutions, and residential projects throughout the UK. Received the Royal Institute of British Architects Gold Medal and was a member of the Royal Academy.
Co-designed the Royal National Theatre
Designed the Institute of Education in London
Created the Keeling House in Bethnal Green
Other People Born on September 8th
Frédéric Mistral
French poet and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 8th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1914 111 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent lexicographer and poet, significant contributions included works in the Occitan language. Authored the epic poem 'Mirèlha', which garnered acclaim for its portrayal of Provençal life and culture. In 1904, received the Nobel Prize in Literature for the efforts to promote the Occitan language through poetry and literature. Established the Félibrige movement, aimed at preserving and promoting Provençal culture and language.
Continue ReadingShubman Gill
Cricketer, 2023 ODI World Cup performer
Born
September 8th, 1999 26 years ago
A prominent cricketer from India, this athlete made a significant impact in international cricket. Debuting for the national team in 2019, notable performances include key innings in test matches and One Day Internationals. Achievements in domestic cricket with teams such as Punjab further solidified a reputation for skill and technique at the crease. Participation in the 2023 Cricket World Cup showcased exceptional batting talent, contributing significantly to India's campaign.
Continue ReadingAlfonso Salmeron
Spanish priest and scholar, theologian
Born
September 8th, 1515 510 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1585 440 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in the early Jesuit order, contributed significantly to theology and biblical scholarship. Played a crucial role in the Council of Trent and authored several important works, including 'Commentaria in Evangelium Matthaei'. Salmeron expressed theological interpretations and defended the Catholic faith during the Reformation period. His writings helped shape Jesuit education and scholarship in Europe.
Continue ReadingOzias Humphry
English painter and academic
Born
September 8th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1810 215 years ago — 67 years old
An English painter specialized in portraiture, gained recognition for his work in the 18th century. Educated at the Royal Academy, contributed to the academic community through teaching and involvement in exhibitions. Exhibited widely, showcasing portraits of notable figures of the time. Worked closely with the Society of Arts, promoting art and education. Became an influential member of the artistic community in England, impacting future generations of painters.
Continue ReadingDerek Barton
Chemist, Nobel Prize winner for chemistry
Born
September 8th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1998 27 years ago — 79 years old
An English-American chemist and academic, made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of molecular conformations. Successfully developed the concept of conformational analysis, which provided a better understanding of the shapes of molecules and their interactions. This work led to advancements in organic chemistry and biochemistry. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1987 for contributions to the development of chemical structure theory, especially regarding the influence of molecular structure on reactivity.
Continue ReadingPatsy Cline
American country music singer
Born
September 8th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 30 years old
An influential figure in country music, this artist rose to fame in the early 1960s. With a rich and emotive voice, the artist gained popularity with hits like 'Crazy' and 'I Fall to Pieces.' The artist's career was marked by a unique ability to blend traditional country with pop influences, leading to widespread acclaim and commercial success. Though the career was tragically cut short by an untimely death in a plane crash, the artist's music continues to resonate with audiences today.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 11th
Padraic Colum
Irish poet and playwright
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1972 53 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to Irish literature during the 20th century. Published numerous collections of poetry and wrote several plays, including 'The Land' and 'The Onlookers'. Engaged with the Irish literary revival and collaborated with other prominent figures such as William Butler Yeats. Alongside poetry and drama, wrote children's books, further influencing Irish cultural life. His works often explored themes of nature, mythology, and the human condition.
Continue ReadingBrian Moore
Irish-Canadian author and screenwriter
Born
August 25th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old
An author and screenwriter with a prolific career, contributed significantly to literature and film. Wrote numerous acclaimed novels and screenplays, addressing complex themes such as identity, faith, and morality. Notable works include 'The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne' and 'Black Robe', the latter adapted into a feature film. Explored the Irish experience and the nuances of cultural heritage. His literary contributions earned recognition in the literary community.
Continue ReadingHenri Verneuil
Director of 'The Sicilian Clan'
Born
October 15th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2002 23 years ago — 81 years old
A French-Armenian director and playwright, contributed significantly to French cinema. Directed over 30 feature films between 1949 and 1989, often focusing on crime and thrillers. Gained prominence in the 1960s with works that featured complex narratives and rich character development. 'The Sicilian Clan' emerged as a classic, showcasing a blend of action and drama, becoming an important reference in the genre. Collaborated with many prominent actors and was recognized for skillful storytelling that captured audiences both in France and internationally.
Continue ReadingRichmal Crompton
Author of the William series
Born
November 15th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1969 56 years ago — 78 years old
An English author and educator wrote the popular children's book series featuring a mischievous schoolboy named William Brown. The series debuted in 1922 and gained substantial popularity, leading to numerous books, radio adaptations, and films. Crompton's works often included themes of childhood and adventure, resonating with young readers for decades. In addition to the William series, Crompton published novels for adults and children's stories. Crompton's literary contributions helped shape children's literature in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingAnita Ekberg
Swedish-Italian actress of La Dolce Vita
Born
September 29th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Sweden, a transition to Italy led to a successful career in film and modeling. Gained international recognition for a role in Federico Fellini's classic film La Dolce Vita, where a memorable scene featured her in the Trevi Fountain. Acted in various Italian and international productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s, often portraying glamorous characters. Continued to appear in films and television until the early 2000s, maintaining a presence in the industry that spanned decades.
Continue ReadingGustavus Vaughan Brooke
Irish actor with acclaimed performances
Born
1818 207 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1866 159 years ago — 48 years old
An Irish actor, notable for significant contributions to the theatre. Achieved acclaim for performances in roles such as Hamlet and Othello. His career in the mid-19th century included appearances in various prestigious venues across England and Ireland. Gained recognition for his powerful portrayals and dramatic presence on stage, influencing theatrical norms of the period.
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