Donald E. Westlake
Author and screenwriter of crime novels
Born
July 12th, 1933
92 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2008
16 years ago — 75 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An American author and screenwriter contributed significantly to the literary world through over 100 published works. Primarily recognized for writing crime and mystery novels, influenced the genre with clever plots and sharp wit. His most notable work includes the Parker series, featuring the character Parker, a professional thief. Westlake also achieved acclaim in screenwriting, particularly for writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of Richard Stark's novel. He received the Edgar Award multiple times, solidifying his reputation in crime fiction. His writing style combined humor and suspense, appealing to a broad audience.
Created the Parker series of novels
Won the Edgar Award for Best Novel
Other People Born on July 12th
Juan del Encina
A notable figure in the Spanish Renaissance, contributed significantly to Spanish drama and music. His works included the first known Spanish pastoral play. Developed the genre of villancico, a form of popular music that became a significant influence on later Spanish musical compositions. Worked with the Catholic Monarchs, serving in their court and writing for important religious celebrations. Continued to be recognized as a precursor to later Spanish theater and musical traditions.
Continue ReadingWillis Lamb
A physicist and academic contributed to the field of quantum electronics. Developed the Lamb shift phenomenon in hydrogen, which provided significant insights into quantum electrodynamics. Held faculty positions at several institutions, including the California Institute of Technology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1955 for work on the interaction of photons with electrons.
Continue ReadingDan Boyle
Played professional ice hockey primarily as a defenseman. Career spanned from 1998 to 2015, with stints at several NHL teams, including the Tampa Bay Lightning, San Jose Sharks, and New York Rangers. Contributed to two Stanley Cup victories with the Lightning in 2004 and the Sharks in 2016. Represented Canada in international competitions, earning a gold medal at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Known for offensive skills and ability to generate scoring opportunities from the blue line.
Continue ReadingKristi Yamaguchi
An accomplished figure skater, achieved prominence in the late 20th century. Won the gold medal in ladies' singles at the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France. Secured multiple titles during professional and amateur careers, including world championships and U.S. national championships. Transitioned to professional skating, performing in various shows, garnering further recognition in the ice skating community.
Continue ReadingPablo Neruda
A significant figure in 20th-century literature, this individual authored numerous works of poetry, contributing to various literary styles and themes. His career as a diplomat complemented his literary pursuits, engaging with political issues of his time. His collection of poems, 'Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair', gained international acclaim and showcased passionate themes and lyrical beauty. The Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded in recognition of exceptional literary impact and contribution.
Continue ReadingFaidon Matthaiou
Born in Greece, this basketball player had a prominent career in the sport both as a player and a coach. His playing career included significant contributions to AEK Athens, where he helped the team secure national championships. Following his playing days, he transitioned into coaching, leading various teams in Greece and impacting the development of basketball in the region. His dual role in basketball, excelling on the court and later behind the bench, marked a significant chapter in Greek basketball history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Ion Creangă
An influential Romanian author and educator, contributions to literature include children's stories and autobiographical anecdotes. Authored 'Amintiri din copilărie', a celebrated work recounting childhood experiences and Romanian folklore. Engaged in education, Creangă worked as a schoolmaster, promoting the importance of education in the community. The narrative style incorporated local dialect and traditions, reflecting the culture of Romania in the 19th century.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Alfonso Borelli
Contributions to the fields of physiology and physics were significant during the 17th century. Borelli established the foundations of biomechanics by studying the motion of animals and the mechanics of human movement. His work, 'De motiono animalium', detailed observations on muscle contractions and joint movements, leading to a scientific understanding of locomotion. Borelli's theories on the motion of projectiles also contributed to physics, specifically in the study of mechanics. Both research domains left a lasting mark on the scientific community.
Continue ReadingEdward Herrmann
An American actor, narrator, and producer, this individual had a prominent career in film, television, and theater. Best recognized for portraying Richard Gilmore in the series 'Gilmore Girls' and the narrator in 'The History Channel' documentaries, the actor also appeared in films such as 'The Lost Boys' and 'The Great Waldo Pepper'. His voice work garnered acclaim, contributing to numerous documentaries and projects, showcasing his versatility in performance.
Continue ReadingWayne Rogers
An American actor, investor, and producer, made significant contributions to television and film. Gained prominence through the role of Trapper John McIntyre in the iconic series M*A*S*H, which aired from 1972 to 1983. After leaving the show, expanded into a variety of roles in both film and television, showcasing versatility in performance. Transitioned into producing and serving as an investor, demonstrating a keen interest in business ventures. Volunteered time and resources to support various humanitarian causes throughout life.
Continue ReadingJosé Greco
A prominent dancer and choreographer, Greco contributed significantly to the Flamenco dance genre in the United States. Born in Italy and later moving to America, he became celebrated for bringing traditional Spanish dance to the forefront of American culture. Greco founded a dance company that toured extensively, showcasing the beauty and passion of Flamenco. His performances captivated audiences and helped to popularize Flamenco, influencing many dancers and choreographers.
Continue ReadingAbul Hasan Ali Nadwi
A prominent Indian Muslim scholar and author, this individual contributed significantly to Islamic literature and education. His scholarly work focused on Islamic philosophy and history. Established an influential Islamic institution, Nadwatul Ulama, in Lucknow, which aimed to modernize Islamic education. Authored numerous books on Islam that were widely distributed and translated into various languages. Engaged in interfaith dialogues to promote understanding among different religious communities.
Continue Reading