Fridtjof Nansen
Norwegian explorer and Nobel laureate
An explorer, scientist, and humanitarian contributed significantly to polar exploration and oceanography. Participated in the first Arctic drift expedition aboard the Fram, which advanced knowledge of Arctic conditions. Involved in humanitarian efforts after World War I, particularly in aiding refugees and children affected by the conflict. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1922 for efforts in promoting peace and understanding.
Led the Fram expedition to the Arctic
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1922
Other People Born on October 10th
Bai Ling
Model and actress, known for 'The Crow'
Born
October 10th, 1966 59 years ago
Born in 1966, this Chinese-American model and actress achieved recognition for roles in film and television. Gained prominence with performance in the cult classic film 'The Crow'. Appeared in various other films, including 'Red Corner' and 'Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow'. Also worked in television series like 'Lost' and 'Entourage'.
Continue ReadingAnita Mui
Singer and actress in Hong Kong cinema
Born
October 10th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2003 23 years ago — 40 years old
A prominent figure in the Hong Kong music and film industry, achieved major commercial success throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Gained widespread acclaim for performances in films such as 'Rouge' and 'The Heroic Trio'. Transitioned from music to acting, establishing a significant presence in both fields. Recognized for her distinct vocal style and dynamic performances, became a cultural icon in Hong Kong. Awarded numerous accolades, including the Best Actress award at the Hong Kong Film Awards.
Continue ReadingHenry Cavendish
Physicist and chemist, discovered hydrogen
Born
October 10th, 1731 294 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1810 215 years ago — 78 years old
A physicist and chemist contributed to the understanding of gases and chemical composition. Conducted experiments that established hydrogen as a distinct element, originally naming it 'inflammable air'. Known for the precise measurement of the Earth's density, Cavendish conducted the renowned Cavendish experiment in 1798, which allowed calculations of the gravitational constant. His meticulous data collection and analysis laid foundational work for later developments in chemistry and physics.
Continue ReadingAlberto Giacometti
Swiss sculptor and painter of surrealism
Born
October 10th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1966 60 years ago — 64 years old
A notable Swiss sculptor and painter worked primarily in surrealism. Created elongated figures that conveyed existential themes and explored the human condition. Giacometti's work gained recognition in the mid-20th century and significantly influenced modern sculpture and art. His most recognized pieces include sculptures like 'Walking Man', which exemplified his distinctive style.
Continue ReadingChris Penn
American actor in 'Reservoir Dogs'
Born
October 10th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 41 years old
An American actor, recognized for work in film and television. Gained significant attention for roles in 'Reservoir Dogs' and 'Footloose'. Participated in several other projects that contributed to a steady acting career throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Also appeared in series including 'The Prince of Pennsylvania'. His performances demonstrated a range of characters across different genres. Worked in both independent films and mainstream cinema, contributing to a notable acting portfolio until passing in 2006.
Continue ReadingBart Brentjens
Dutch Cyclist and Olympic Champion
Born
October 10th, 1968 57 years ago
Competed in mountain biking and road cycling events. Participated in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta and secured the gold medal in the men's mountain bike cross-country event. Competed professionally in various international competitions, contributing to the popularity of mountain biking in the Netherlands and Europe. In addition to Olympic success, had a successful career in professional mountain biking circuits.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 13th
Nina Otkalenko
Russian middle-distance runner
Born
May 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Competed in middle-distance running events, achieving notable success in her athletic career. Participated in the 1956 Summer Olympics held in Melbourne, where she represented the Soviet Union. Excelled in events such as the 800 meters and was recognized for her speed and endurance on the track. Contributed to the development of women’s athletics in her country during a period of significant growth in the sport.
Continue ReadingMorning Glory Zell-Ravenheart
Occultist and author of grimoires
Born
May 27th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
An American occultist and author contributed significantly to the field of modern witchcraft and neopaganism. Established a prominent community focused on the studies of ancient pagan practices and spirituality. Founded a well-known esoteric journal and published various works that explored themes of magic, mythology, and the sacred feminine. Advocated for the revival of earth-centered spirituality and provided resources for practitioners and seekers of mystical traditions.
Continue ReadingJoseph Henry
American physicist and engineer known for electromagnetism
Born
December 17th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1878 147 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent American physicist and engineer, contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. His research laid foundational principles for the development of the telegraph and other electrical devices. Henry made substantial advancements in the understanding of self-induction and mutual induction, which are crucial for the operation of inductors in electrical circuits. He also served as the first Director of the National Institute for the Promotion of Science, now part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. An influential figure in the scientific community, engaged in extensive correspondence with contemporaries such as Michael Faraday.
Continue ReadingAlice Munro
Short Story Writer, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
July 10th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Canada in 1931, a prolific short story writer whose works expanded the genre's boundaries, frequently exploring themes of human connection, memory, and identity. The writing process began at an early age, culminating in acclaimed collections such as 'Dance of the Happy Shades' and 'Dear Life'. Achievements included the Nobel Prize in Literature awarded in 2013, recognizing a masterful ability to depict the intricacies of ordinary life. The narratives often reflected the author's own experiences growing up in Ontario, infusing realism and depth into fictional characters.
Continue ReadingSamm-Art Williams
American playwright with acclaimed works
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
A playwright and screenwriter, contributions spanned theater and film. Developed works that highlighted African American experiences and narratives. Gained recognition for the play 'Home', which depicted the struggles of a returning Vietnam veteran. Served as a scriptwriter for various television productions, showcasing talent in creating relatable and poignant characters. Engaged in the arts community through multiple workshops and mentorship programs.
Continue ReadingRichard Ellmann
Literary critic and biographer of Joyce
Born
March 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1985 40 years ago — 67 years old
An American author and critic, specialized in modernist literature, particularly the works of James Joyce. Authored a celebrated biography of Joyce, which provided in-depth analysis and context to the author's life and writings. Also penned influential works on other literary figures, including W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett. Served as a professor at various universities and contributed significantly to literary criticism through essays and reviews, shaping the understanding of 20th-century literature.
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