Emil Cioran

Philosopher and author of 'On the Heights of Despair'

Emil Cioran - Philosopher and author of 'On the Heights of Despair'
Born

April 8th, 1911
113 years ago

Died

June 20th, 1995
29 years ago — 84 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

France

Links & References

Emil Cioran was a Romanian-French philosopher and essayist. Born in Romania, he later moved to France, where he wrote extensively in French. Cioran's philosophical work delved into themes of despair, existentialism, and the human condition. He published several influential works, often reflecting on the absurdity of life and the inevitability of suffering. His writing style combined poetic language with philosophical inquiry, capturing the complexities of human emotions. Cioran's thoughts continue to resonate in various fields of philosophy and literature.

Authored 'On the Heights of Despair'

Published 'The Trouble with Being Born'

Wrote 'A Short History of Decay'

Other People Born on April 8th

Edmund Husserl

Philosopher and founder of phenomenology
Born
April 8th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1938 86 years ago — 79 years old

A philosopher and mathematician, contributed significantly to the field of philosophy, particularly through the development of phenomenology. His major works include 'Logical Investigations' and 'Ideas Pertaining to a Pure Phenomenology and to a Phenomenological Philosophy.' Functioned as a lecturer at the University of Göttingen and later at the University of Freiburg. His philosophical ideas influenced various disciplines including psychology, sociology, and existentialism.

Continue Reading

David Wu

Lawyer and politician; U.S. Congressman
Born
April 8th, 1955 69 years ago

A Taiwanese-American lawyer and politician served as a U.S. Congressman from Oregon's 1st congressional district from 1999 to 2011. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during tenure. Advocated for issues related to education, health care, and civil rights. Worked on the House Committee on Education and Labor, focusing on improving public education and labor rights. Resigned from Congress amid controversy in 2011.

Continue Reading

Michele Mercati

Italian physician and archaeologist
Born
April 8th, 1541 483 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1593 431 years ago — 52 years old

A physician and archaeologist, contributions include the study of ancient materials and the exploration of the natural sciences. Authored 'Metallotheca', a seminal work on metallurgy detailing the origins and uses of metals in antiquity. Mercati's research laid foundational principles for the field of archaeology, particularly concerning the relationship between material culture and the study of history. His interdisciplinary approach combined aspects of medicine, chemistry, and archaeology to advance the understanding of ancient technologies.

Continue Reading

Ian Smith

Prime Minister of Rhodesia
Born
April 8th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2007 17 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Rhodesia from 1965 to 1979, leading the country during its Unilateral Declaration of Independence from Britain. Played a crucial role in the Rhodesian Bush War, a conflict between the white-minority government and black nationalist movements. Advocated for minority rule and resistance against majority governance and was involved in negotiations that ultimately led to the end of white-minority rule. After leaving office, resided in South Africa.

Continue Reading

Kim Woo-jin

South Korean singer and musician
Born
April 8th, 1997 27 years ago

A South Korean singer, this individual gained prominence as a member of the boy group Stray Kids. The group debuted in 2018 under JYP Entertainment, quickly rising to fame in the K-pop industry. In addition to group activities, this artist pursued a solo career, showcasing songwriting and vocal talents. Several singles released as a solo artist contributed to a solid fan base, reflecting significant achievements in the music scene.

Continue Reading

Alexi Laiho

Finnish guitarist and songwriter for Children of Bodom
Born
April 8th, 1979 45 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent figure in the metal music scene, served as the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band Children of Bodom. Achieved recognition for a unique blend of melodic death metal and power metal. Released several critically acclaimed albums, including 'Follow the Reaper' and 'Hatebreeder', which contributed significantly to the band's popularity. Known for virtuosic guitar skills and a distinctive vocal style. After disbanding in 2019, continued to influence the genre until passing in 2020.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 20th

Willem Barentsz

Dutch explorer and cartographer
Born
1550 475 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1597 427 years ago — 47 years old

An explorer and cartographer from the Netherlands, contributed to the exploration of the Arctic regions. Led multiple trips to the northern areas, including expeditions in search of a Northeast Passage. The third expedition in 1596 resulted in the discovery of Spitsbergen and the adjacent waters. Died during the fourth expedition, but navigational and geographical knowledge gathered during these journeys laid foundational information for subsequent explorers.

Continue Reading

Bernard Baruch

American businessman and philanthropist
Born
August 19th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1965 59 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent businessman and philanthropist, made significant contributions to finance and politics. Played a crucial role as a financial advisor during World War I and served on the War Industries Board. Later influenced economic policy through involvement in various government committees and agencies. Engaged in philanthropy and established the Baruch Foundation, supporting education and healthcare initiatives. Additionally, had a strong interest in public service and provided guidance in economic matters throughout his life.

Continue Reading

Erwin Chargaff

Biochemist and DNA structure contributor
Born
August 11th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 20th, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Austria and later becoming an American citizen, Chargaff made significant contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology. He is best recognized for formulating Chargaff's rules, which describe the base pairing in DNA. His research laid critical groundwork for understanding the structure of DNA, influencing later discoveries in genetics. Chargaff was a professor at Columbia University, where he educated future scientists.

Continue Reading

Josef Breuer

Austrian physician and psychiatrist
Born
January 15th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1925 99 years ago — 83 years old

Pioneered psychoanalysis alongside Sigmund Freud. Developed the 'talking cure,’ effectively using conversation in psychotherapeutic treatment. Conducted research on hysteria and published works analyzing its effects, significantly contributing to the understanding of psychological disorders. His collaboration with Freud laid the groundwork for modern psychotherapy. Also contributed to the field of psychosomatic medicine.

Continue Reading

Bugsy Siegel

American gangster and Las Vegas developer
Born
February 28th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1947 77 years ago — 41 years old

Involved in organized crime during the 20th century, engaged in various illegal activities including bootlegging and gambling. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Las Vegas Strip, particularly through the construction of the Flamingo Hotel and Casino, which opened in 1946. His approach to gambling venues sought to create lavish experiences that would attract tourists. Siegel's life ended violently in 1947, reflecting the dangerous lifestyle associated with organized crime.

Continue Reading

Emperor Wencheng of Northern Wei

Emperor of Northern Wei dynasty
Died
June 20th, 465 1559 years ago — None years old

Ruled as emperor from 465 after ascending to the throne at a young age. Established a strong centralized government and promoted Buddhism as a state religion. Implemented reforms that improved agricultural productivity and contributed to the economic stabilization of the Northern Wei dynasty. The reign witnessed significant cultural and architectural developments, particularly in Buddhist art and architecture. Died in 465.

Continue Reading