Florence King

American journalist and memoirist

Florence King - American journalist and memoirist
Born

January 5th, 1936
89 years ago

Died

January 6th, 2016
9 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A journalist and memoirist authored several works reflecting on Southern life and culture. Gained recognition for sharp wit and insightful commentary. Contributed to various publications and achieved acclaim for personal essays and critiques. Explored themes of identity, class, and social norms in written works, establishing a distinctive voice in American literature.

Authored 'Confessions of a failed Southern Lady'

Wrote for National Review

Other People Born on January 5th

Joseph Erlanger

American physiologist, Nobel laureate
Born
January 5th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1965 59 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1874, a prominent physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of nerve physiology. Collaborated with a colleague in groundbreaking research that unveiled the mechanisms of nerve conduction, leading to important advancements in the field of physiology. This work earned them the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1944, recognizing the importance of their scientific contributions to medical science. In addition to research, held academic positions and played a role in advancing education in physiology.

Continue Reading

Eric Fisher

American football offensive tackle
Born
January 5th, 1991 34 years ago

An offensive tackle in American football, played for the Kansas City Chiefs. Drafted first overall in the 2013 NFL Draft. Contributed to the Chiefs' victory in Super Bowl LIV. Played college football at Central Michigan University, where earned All-American honors.

Continue Reading

Warrick Dunn

American Football Player and Philanthropist
Born
January 5th, 1975 50 years ago

A former American football player who played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons. Earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2000 and finished with over 10,000 rushing yards in his career. After retiring from football, became a notable philanthropist, focusing on providing affordable housing for single mothers through his foundation. The efforts in the community have received recognition and accolades.

Continue Reading

Edwin Barclay

18th President of Liberia
Born
January 5th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1955 69 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 18th president of Liberia from 1930 to 1944. His administration focused on rebuilding the nation's infrastructure following the impacts of the Great Depression. Barclay played a significant role in fostering international relations, particularly with the United States, during World War II. The establishment of the Bureau of Education and the expansion of public health facilities were notable achievements during his presidency. He also advocated for the rights of the indigenous population in Liberia.

Continue Reading

Zebulon Pike

American General and Explorer of the West
Born
January 5th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1813 212 years ago — 34 years old

This individual was a United States Army officer and explorer in the early 19th century. His notable expeditions included explorations into the southern portion of the Louisiana Purchase and the mountainous regions that would later be known as Pike's Peak in Colorado. Appointed as a second lieutenant in the Army, he gained recognition for his leadership during various campaigns against Native American tribes. His explorations contributed to the westward expansion and detailed valuable geographic and cultural information about the regions he traversed. He met his end in 1813 during a military engagement in the War of 1812.

Continue Reading

Mike Faist

Actor in Dear Evan Hansen musical
Born
January 5th, 1992 33 years ago

An American actor, singer, and dancer gained prominence through a leading role in the musical 'Dear Evan Hansen' on Broadway. The performance earned critical acclaim and a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Faist also appeared in other productions and films, further establishing a career in performance arts. Additionally, Faist engaged in multiple stage performances showcasing versatility and talent across genres, contributing to the artistic community.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 6th

José Ramón Fernández

Cuban revolution leader
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2019 6 years ago — 96 years old

Involvement in the Cuban Revolution led to significant changes in Cuba's political landscape. Played a key role in the 1959 overthrow of the Batista regime, contributing to the establishment of the socialist state under Fidel Castro. Held various governmental positions post-revolution, including Minister of Education, where efforts focused on literacy and educational reform. Served in numerous capacities in the Cuban Communist Party, leading initiatives aimed at consolidating power and influence in the region. Engaged in international diplomacy and solidarity missions across Latin America, advocating for revolutionary movements.

Continue Reading

Ron Asheton

Guitarist of The Stooges
Born
July 17th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2009 16 years ago — 60 years old

An influential guitarist and songwriter associated with the punk rock genre. Contributed significantly to the sound of The Stooges, a band formed in the late 1960s. The Stooges released iconic albums such as 'Fun House' and 'Raw Power,' which shaped the future of rock music. Also explored a career in acting, appearing in a few films and television shows. Continued to perform and record music until his passing in 2009.

Continue Reading

Pierre Charles

Dominican politician, 5th Prime Minister
Born
June 30th, 1954 70 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2004 21 years ago — 49 years old

Served as the 5th Prime Minister of Dominica from 2000 until death in 2004. Played a significant role in Dominican politics, emphasizing education and social development. Prior to the premiership, held various positions within the government, contributing to national policy and governance. Advocated for economic advancement and environmental sustainability throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Louis Braille

Inventor of the Braille writing system
Born
January 4th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1852 173 years ago — 43 years old

An educator developed a tactile writing system that enables visually impaired individuals to read and write. At the age of 15, created a simplified version of a code for reading and writing using raised dots based on the military night writing system. Established a school for the blind in France, dedicated to teaching this innovative method, which significantly improved literacy among visually impaired people.

Continue Reading

Burt Munro

Motorcycle racer and record holder
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1978 47 years ago — 79 years old

A motorcycle racer from New Zealand achieved significant recognition for setting land speed records. Remarkably, the individual set a record of 183.586 mph at Bonneville Salt Flats in 1967 on a modified 1920 Indian motorcycle. This accomplishment remained unbeaten in its class for decades. The effort to push the limits of speed involved considerable innovation and engineering on the motorcycle to enhance performance. The story of this racer gained further attention with the release of the film 'The World's Fastest Indian'.

Continue Reading

André Bessette

Canadian saint and religious figure
Born
August 9th, 1845 179 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1937 88 years ago — 91 years old

A religious figure served as a doorkeeper at the Notre-Dame College in Montreal. Known for devotion to Saint Joseph, promoted healing miracles attributed to prayers. Founded the Oratory of Saint Joseph, a renowned Catholic shrine in Montreal, which became one of the largest in the world. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, recognized for humble service and deep faith.

Continue Reading