Edward Bulwer-Lytton

English author and politician

Edward Bulwer-Lytton - English author and politician
Born

May 25th, 1803
221 years ago

Died

January 18th, 1873
152 years ago — 69 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An influential English author, poet, and playwright, served as Secretary of State for the Colonies. Contributed significantly to literature in the 19th century with works spanning novels, essays, and plays. Wrote the renowned opening line, 'It was a dark and stormy night' from the novel 'Paul Clifford'. Engaged in politics and made contributions to social reform while advocating for colonial interests.

Wrote the novel 'Paul Clifford'

Served as Secretary of State for the Colonies

Coined the phrase 'the pen is mightier than the sword'

Other People Born on May 25th

Miles Malleson

English actor and screenwriter
Born
May 25th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1969 56 years ago — 80 years old

This individual was an English actor and screenwriter who made significant contributions to film and theatre during the early to mid-20th century. In film, portrayal of various characters in films like 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The Man in the White Suit' showcased versatility. As a screenwriter, work included adaptations of classic literature and original screenplays that enriched British cinema. The influence within the theatre scene included involvement in notable productions, enhancing the cultural landscape of the time.

Continue Reading

Samuel Ward

American politician and Governor
Born
May 25th, 1725 299 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1776 249 years ago — 50 years old

Served as the 31st and 33rd Governor of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Played a significant role in colonial governance during a transformative period in American history. Engaged in political discussions and actions leading up to the American Revolution, advocating for independence and republican governance. His leadership was notable in the context of the political challenges faced by the colonies.

Continue Reading

Minh Mạng

Vietnamese emperor during the Nguyễn dynasty
Born
May 25th, 1791 233 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1841 184 years ago — 49 years old

Reigned as the second emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty from 1820 to 1841. Implemented significant reforms in administration, military, and education. Centralized governance and strengthened the power of the emperor. Expanded the country's territory and made efforts to consolidate national identity. Emphasized Confucian principles in the government's operations and the society at large.

Continue Reading

Margaret Forster

Historian and author of acclaimed biographies
Born
May 25th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old

An English historian, author, and critic, contributed significantly to the literary landscape through numerous biographies and novels. Authored acclaimed works including 'Elizabeth Barrett Browning' and 'Margaret Foster's Diary'. Focused on women's lives and historical narratives, providing depth and insight into her subjects. Also served as a critic and essayist, exploring various themes in literature and culture.

Continue Reading

Rudolf Adler

Czech filmmaker
Born
May 25th, 1941 83 years ago

Born in 1941, this filmmaker developed a distinctive style in cinema that garnered attention in the Czech film industry. The body of work included feature films and documentaries, exploring various themes that resonated with audiences. Several projects received critical acclaim and entered the annals of significant Czech cinema. In addition to features, contributions to television projects showcased versatility in visual storytelling. The dedication to the cinematic arts marked a prominent career in filmmaking.

Continue Reading

Kazi Nazrul Islam

Bengali poet and revolutionary musician
Born
May 25th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Bengali poet, author, and songwriter, created a significant body of work that addressed themes of social justice and revolution. His poetry often interwove elements of mysticism and nationalism. Islam composed numerous songs and is celebrated for pioneering a genre that blends traditional and modern music forms. His fervent activism against colonial rule inspired many during India's struggle for independence. Additionally, served as the national poet of Bangladesh, fostering a strong cultural identity through literary contributions.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 18th

Baldassare Verazzi

Italian painter with historical themes
Born
1819 206 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1886 139 years ago — 67 years old

An Italian painter became renowned for works that often depicted historical themes and religious subjects. Active during the 19th century, the artist contributed to various art movements, showcasing a blend of romantic style and academic principles. His artworks were characterized by emotive figures and dramatic lighting, which drew inspiration from classical techniques. Various exhibitions displayed his work, earning recognition in art circles. His paintings reflect the socio-political environment of the time, providing a visual narrative that resonates with historical events and religious stories.

Continue Reading

Kate McGarrigle

Canadian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 6th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 63 years old

A Canadian singer-songwriter active primarily in folk music. Part of the McGarrigle Sisters duo alongside sister Anna, produced several albums that garnered critical acclaim. The duo performed internationally and contributed to the folk music scene in Canada and beyond. Collaborated with various artists, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary folk styles. The McGarrigle Sisters' music often incorporated elements of storytelling, drawing on personal and cultural themes.

Continue Reading

Glenn Frey

Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Eagles
Born
November 6th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2016 9 years ago — 67 years old

An influential singer-songwriter and musician co-founded the rock band Eagles. The group achieved massive success in the 1970s with hits like 'Hotel California' and 'Take It Easy,' contributing significantly to the genre of rock music. Frey also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles, including 'The Heat Is On' for the soundtrack of the movie 'Beverly Hills Cop.' In addition to music, Frey appeared as an actor in shows such as 'Miami Vice.' His contributions to music were recognized with various awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Frey remained active in music until his passing in 2016.

Continue Reading

Bruce Chatwin

British Author and Travel Writer
Born
May 13th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1989 36 years ago — 48 years old

An author and travel writer whose works explored themes of wanderlust and the human experience. Chatwin wrote several books that combined fiction and travelogues, including 'In Patagonia,' a seminal work reflecting on the author's travels in South America. His writing style merged rich imagery with philosophical insights, influencing contemporary travel literature. Other notable works include 'The Songlines' and 'On the Black Hill,' which delve into cultural and environmental themes, drawing on personal experiences during his journeys. Chatwin’s life itself was marked by extensive travel, contributing to the authenticity of his narratives.

Continue Reading

Pietro Bembo

Italian cardinal and humanist scholar
Born
May 20th, 1470 554 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1547 478 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and contributed significantly to the fields of poetry and literary theory during the Renaissance. His works expressed a deep appreciation for classical literature and language. Bembo's most notable work, 'Prose della volgar lingua,' influenced the development of the Italian language and established the Tuscan dialect as the standard for Italian literature. He was also involved in the promotion of the works of prominent authors and played a key role in the revival of Latin and Greek literature in Europe.

Continue Reading

Rachael Heyhoe Flint

Cricketer and philanthropist
Born
June 11th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 77 years old

An accomplished cricketer, significantly contributed to women's cricket. Played for England's national team from 1960 to 1982 and captained the team to its first Women's Cricket World Cup title in 1973. Beyond cricket, engaged in various philanthropic efforts and served as a businesswoman. Held the title of Baroness and was involved in numerous charitable initiatives supporting sports and women's rights.

Continue Reading