Edward Lear

Poet and illustrator of limericks

Edward Lear - Poet and illustrator of limericks
Born

May 12th, 1812
213 years ago

Died

January 29th, 1888
137 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English poet and illustrator, focused on the creation of limericks and whimsical illustrations. Published works included 'A Book of Nonsense,' which featured light-hearted poems and playful drawings. Worked extensively as a landscape painter, capturing scenes of the Mediterranean and various locations in Europe. Thus, contributed significantly to the genre of children's literature and illustrated poetry. Lear was also known for his detailed works of natural history, especially in ornithology.

Published 'A Book of Nonsense'

Created numerous limericks and illustrations

Produced landscape paintings of the Mediterranean

Other People Born on May 12th

Johan Ferrier

Surinamese politician and educator
Born
May 12th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 99 years old

An educator and politician served as the first President of Suriname from 1975 to 1980. Played a crucial role in the transition of Suriname from Dutch colonial rule to independence. Established educational reforms and promoted literacy initiatives during his time in office. After a military coup in 1980, went into exile and returned later to continue his contributions to Surinamese society.

Continue Reading

Steve Winwood

Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist
Born
May 12th, 1948 77 years ago

An English musician gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Co-founded the band Traffic, which blended rock, jazz, and blues elements. Achieved solo success with hit songs and albums. Notable for collaborations with various artists across genres. Received multiple Grammy Awards and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Continue Reading

Yujiro Kushida

Japanese professional wrestler
Born
May 12th, 1983 42 years ago

Professional wrestler and mixed martial artist began career in 2004. Gained recognition in New Japan Pro-Wrestling for innovative grappling style and technical prowess. Competed in various promotions including Ring of Honor and WWE, showcasing versatility in both singles and tag team formats. Won multiple championships, including the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship, and participated in prestigious tournaments.

Continue Reading

Julius Rosenberg

American spy and nuclear espionage figure
Born
May 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1953 71 years ago — 35 years old

Engaged in espionage activities during the Cold War, which included passing atomic secrets to the Soviet Union. Arrested in 1950 alongside his wife for conspiracy to commit espionage. Their trial garnered significant media attention and raised debates about loyalty and security in the United States. Convicted in 1951 and executed in 1953, marking one of the most controversial espionage cases in American history. The case has continued to spark discussions about the ethics of espionage and the complexities of the Cold War.

Continue Reading

Graeme Dott

Snooker player; World Champion 2006
Born
May 12th, 1977 48 years ago

A professional snooker player and coach from Scotland, achieved significant success in the sport. Won the World Snooker Championship in 2006, putting forth a breakthrough performance. Secured multiple ranking titles during his career and continued to coach aspiring players in the sport, emphasizing skill development and tactical awareness. Competed in various other tournaments, demonstrating consistent proficiency.

Continue Reading

Kim Fields

American actress best known for "The Facts of Life"
Born
May 12th, 1969 56 years ago

An actress gained recognition for playing the role of Dorothy 'Tootie' Ramsey on the television series "The Facts of Life" from 1979 to 1988. Fields started her acting career in commercials before transitioning to television and film. In addition to her work on "The Facts of Life", she starred in the sitcom "Living Single" as Regine Hunter in the 1990s. Fields has appeared in various television movies and has directed several projects, showcasing a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. She has participated in reality television, further expanding her visibility in popular culture.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 29th

Dukinfield Henry Scott

British botanist, authored many texts
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1934 91 years ago — 80 years old

A British botanist contributed significantly to the field of botany through extensive research and publications. Notable works include comprehensive texts on plant taxonomy and morphology. His research enhanced understanding of various plant species and their classifications. Held a prominent role at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, facilitating advancements in botanical studies. Participated in scientific expeditions that enriched botanical knowledge. Engaged with the scientific community to promote further exploration and study within botany.

Continue Reading

William Allen White

American journalist and author of 'In Our Times'
Born
February 10th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1944 81 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent journalist and author, this individual gained recognition for editorial writing and commentary on social issues. Notable works include the book 'In Our Times,' which reflects on American life in the early 20th century. The individual served as editor of the Emporia Gazette in Kansas, using the platform to influence public opinion. Engaging in political discourse, advocacy for civil rights, and community improvement marked significant phases of this individual's career. Contributions to literature and journalism garnered acclaim throughout the United States.

Continue Reading

Colleen McCullough

Neuroscientist and author of 'The Thorn Birds'
Born
June 1st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old

An Australian neuroscientist and author contributed significantly to literature and science. Achieved a medical degree from the University of Sydney and worked as a neurologist at the Sydney Hospital. Gained widespread acclaim for writing 'The Thorn Birds', a novel published in 1977, which became a bestseller and was adapted into a successful television miniseries. Also authored numerous other novels, including 'Tim', 'A Creed for the Third Millennium', and 'The Touch'.

Continue Reading

Alfred Sisley

Impressionist painter of landscapes
Born
October 30th, 1839 185 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1899 126 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1839, a prominent figure of the Impressionist movement, this painter focused primarily on landscapes and natural scenes. After moving to France, developed a distinct style characterized by the effects of light and color on outdoor landscapes. Participated in the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874, showcasing works that captured the beauty of nature. The artist spent much time painting the countryside around Paris, particularly the Seine river and the surrounding regions. Continued to explore themes of light and atmosphere until death in 1899.

Continue Reading

Frances Goodrich

American actress and dramatist
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1984 41 years ago — 94 years old

An American actress, dramatist, and screenwriter, played a significant role in the theatre and film industry during the mid-20th century. Collaborated with Albert Hackett to create acclaimed works for both stage and screen. The writing team adapted the classic play 'The Diary of Anne Frank,' which received widespread recognition. Also contributed to various films, showcasing a talent for screenwriting.

Continue Reading

Jacques Rivette

French film director and screenwriter
Born
March 1st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

A central figure in the French New Wave, this director and screenwriter explored themes of illusion and narrative structure through innovative film techniques. His career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1950s and continuing into the 21st century. Influenced by fellow filmmakers and critics, he contributed significantly to film theory while directing over twenty feature films. Some notable works include 'Paris Belongs to Us' and 'La Belle Noiseuse'. Rivette's films often featured a blend of improvisation and tightly woven narratives that challenged traditional storytelling methods.

Continue Reading