Earl Derr Biggers
American novelist, creator of Charlie Chan
Born
August 24th, 1884
141 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1933
92 years ago — 48 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A novelist and playwright from the United States, he achieved recognition through the creation of the character Charlie Chan, a fictional Chinese detective. This character first appeared in the 1925 novel 'The House Without a Key' and subsequently in several other works. The stories featuring Charlie Chan received adaptations into successful films, making the character iconic in mystery literature. Additionally, Biggers wrote plays and other novels, contributing to the early 20th-century literary scene and influencing the genre.
Created the Charlie Chan character in 'The House Without a Key'
Wrote several sequels featuring Charlie Chan
Authored various plays and novels
Other People Born on August 24th
Oscar Hijuelos
An American author and academic, this individual gained recognition for literary works that explored the immigrant experience. The debut novel, 'The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love', released in 1989, garnered widespread acclaim and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1990. This work tells the story of two Cuban brothers who emigrated to America and sought success in the world of music. Alongside fiction, significant contributions to literature also included essays and stories that reflected the complexities of cultural identity. An academic career complemented the literary pursuits, teaching at various universities and contributing to dialogues on Latin American literature.
Continue ReadingAnže Kopitar
This ice hockey player was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the first round of the 2005 NHL Draft. He served as captain of the Kings and led the team to two Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014. Renowned for exceptional playmaking skills and leadership on the ice, he has consistently been among the top scorers in the NHL. Internationally, represented Slovenia in multiple IIHF World Championships and the Olympic Games.
Continue ReadingJackie Brenston
A significant figure in the development of rhythm and blues, this musician rose to prominence in the early 1950s. As a member of Ike Turner's band, the Kings of Rhythm, contributed to groundbreaking music that laid the groundwork for later rock and roll. The song 'Rocket 88', recorded in 1951, is often cited as one of the first rock and roll records, showcasing innovative saxophone work. Continued to perform and record, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingElisabeth of Brandenburg
Born in 1510, Elisabeth served as Duchess of Brunswick-Calenberg-Göttingen. She married Duke Eric I, consolidating political ties in the region. Throughout her life, she engaged in the governance of her duchy, exerting influence on local affairs and maintaining stability within her realm.
Continue ReadingHoward Zinn
An American historian, author, and activist focused on social justice issues. Worked as a professor at Boston University, emphasizing the importance of grassroots movements and historical narratives from marginalized perspectives. Authored 'A People's History of the United States,' which presents American history through the lens of everyday people rather than political elites. Engaged in various peace and civil rights movements throughout his life, advocating for nonviolent protest and civil disobedience.
Continue ReadingJennifer Lien
An actress gained recognition for a role as Kes in the television series Star Trek: Voyager, which aired from 1995 to 2001. This character, an Ocampa with telepathic abilities, provided an essential narrative during the show's early seasons. Lien also appeared in films such as The Psycho Legacy and the critically acclaimed television movie, The 10th Kingdom. In addition to acting, Lien has been involved in various artistic pursuits, including voice acting. After her early career in acting, she pursued a more private life away from the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Charles Frank
Contributions to the field of solid state physics included research on defects in crystals and the theory of dislocations. Worked extensively on the theoretical foundations of materials science, particularly focusing on structural properties of materials. Authored significant papers that are referenced in the study of crystalline structures and phase transitions. Held academic positions and influenced numerous students in the field, contributing to the growth of theoretical physics in Britain and beyond.
Continue ReadingJohan Falkberget
A prominent Norwegian author wrote several works reflecting the life and culture of rural Norway. Worked primarily in the genres of novels, short stories, and plays. Gained recognition for a literary portrayal of mining communities and the struggles of the working class. Contributed significantly to Norwegian literature through depictions of nature and the human condition. His notable works often explore themes of heritage, identity, and the natural environment.
Continue ReadingGustav Adolf Deissmann
Contributed significantly to New Testament studies through the analysis of early Christian texts in their historical context. Conducted comprehensive research on the language of the New Testament, emphasizing its relationship with contemporary Greek literature. Published seminal works that explored the linguistic and cultural background of early Christianity, most notably 'Light from the Ancient East', which examined the influence of Hellenistic culture on Christian thought. Served as a professor and influenced generations of scholars in biblical studies. His methodologies set the groundwork for modern theological research.
Continue ReadingPaul Vidal de La Blache
Contributed significantly to the field of geography, particularly in regional geography. Established the idea of human geography, emphasizing the relationship between people and their environment. Developed the concept of 'géographie humaine' to explain how physical landscapes influence human activity. Served as a professor at the University of Paris and directed the French School of Athens. Authored several influential texts on geography, shaping modern geographic thought.
Continue ReadingKim Won-gyun
A prominent composer, engaged in the development of North Korean music, contributed significantly to the country's cultural scene. Played a major role in state-sponsored music events and served as a member of the Supreme People's Assembly, influencing the political and cultural landscape. His compositions often reflected the themes of patriotism and the revolutionary spirit of North Korea, aligning with the state's ideologies. Developed a distinct style that incorporated traditional Korean elements, merging them with contemporary musical forms, to create a unique sound that resonated within North Korean society.
Continue ReadingLayne Staley
An American singer-songwriter gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band Alice in Chains. Originating from Seattle, the band became a prominent figure in the grunge music scene of the early 1990s. Staley's distinctive vocal style and emotive lyrics contributed significantly to the band's success. The group achieved commercial acclaim with hit albums such as 'Dirt' and 'Jar of Flies.' Staley's battle with addiction was well-documented and affected both his personal life and career. He passed away in 2002, leaving a lasting legacy within the rock genre.
Continue Reading