Friedrich Dürrenmatt

Swiss author and playwright

Friedrich Dürrenmatt - Swiss author and playwright
Born

January 5th, 1921
104 years ago

Died

December 14th, 1990
34 years ago — 69 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Switzerland

Links & References

A prominent Swiss author and playwright, recognized for contributions to literature and theater. Works often reflected on themes of justice, societal norms, and existentialism. Achieved international acclaim with major plays such as 'The Visit' and 'The Physicists', which critiqued ethical dilemmas and human behavior. Also authored novels, including 'The Pledge', exploring crime and morality. Developed a unique style that merged comic elements with tragic themes, influencing modern theater.

Wrote the play 'The Visit'

Authored 'The Physicists'

Wrote the novel 'The Pledge'

Other People Born on January 5th

Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli

Italian pianist and music educator
Born
January 5th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1995 29 years ago — 75 years old

An accomplished pianist and educator, contributed significantly to classical music through performances and teachings. Gained recognition for interpretations of works by composers such as Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and Debussy. Emphasized technical precision and emotional depth in performances. Held masterclasses around the world, influencing many aspiring musicians. His recordings remain celebrated for their artistry and attention to detail.

Continue Reading

Zemgus Girgensons

Ice hockey player for the Buffalo Sabres
Born
January 5th, 1994 31 years ago

Born in Latvia, an ice hockey player emerged in the sport's competitive leagues. He played for the Buffalo Sabres in the National Hockey League (NHL) and gained recognition as one of the few Latvian players in the league. He made significant contributions during the international tournaments as a member of the Latvian national team.

Continue Reading

Phillip Dorsett

Football player with New England Patriots
Born
January 5th, 1993 32 years ago

A professional American football player active in the National Football League (NFL). Played as a wide receiver for several teams, including the Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots. Contributed to the Patriots' Super Bowl LIII championship victory. Known for speed and agility on the field, establishing a reputation as a reliable option in the passing game.

Continue Reading

Jean-Pierre Aumont

French actor and screenwriter
Born
January 5th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2001 24 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Paris, a prominent actor achieved recognition in both French and international cinema. Debuted in 1931 and gained significant acclaim during the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in classic films such as 'The Baker's Wife' and 'La Ronde.' Worked extensively in Hollywood, with notable roles in 'The Devil and Daniel Webster' and 'Fanny.' Contributed to theater and television throughout a long career, also co-writing numerous screenplays.

Continue Reading

Jesús Vallejo

Spanish footballer with Real Madrid
Born
January 5th, 1997 28 years ago

A professional footballer, primarily a center-back, started career in the youth ranks of Real Zaragoza. Made professional debut with Zaragoza in Segunda División. Transferred to Real Madrid in 2015, contributing to various competitions. Had loan spells at clubs including Wolverhampton Wanderers and Eintracht Frankfurt, aiding in their defensive lines. Internationally, represented Spain at various youth levels and participated in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Continue Reading

Maurizio Pollini

Pianist and conductor, Chopin specialist
Born
January 5th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 82 years old

An Italian pianist and conductor, Pollini achieved recognition for his interpretations of Romantic and 20th-century composers. After winning the International Chopin Piano Competition in 1960, he established a successful international career, performing solo recitals and collaborating with major orchestras around the world. His recordings have garnered numerous accolades, showcasing a particular affinity for the works of Chopin and other composers.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 14th

Dinah Washington

American jazz and blues singer
Born
August 29th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1963 61 years ago — 39 years old

Renowned as a prominent figure in jazz and blues, this singer gained acclaim during the 1940s and 1950s. Initially starting a career as a pianist, transitioned into singing and recorded a wide variety of music including R&B, gospel, and jazz standards. The artist's unique vocal style and emotive performances garnered widespread recognition. Major hits include 'What a Difference a Day Makes' and 'Unchain My Heart'. The artist also received a Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Performance in 1959, solidifying a lasting legacy in American music.

Continue Reading

Franz Schlegelberger

German judge and politician
Born
October 23rd, 1876 148 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1970 54 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a prominent judge and politician within the Reich Ministry of Justice during the Nazi regime. Worked in legal and political settings during a tumultuous period in German history. Involved in the legal framework and administration of justice at a national level, particularly during World War II. Post-war, faced legal consequences for actions taken during the Nazi era.

Continue Reading

Munier Choudhury

Bangladeshi author and playwright
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1971 53 years ago — 46 years old

An influential figure in Bangladeshi literature, contributed significantly through plays, essays, and criticism. Explored themes of identity, culture, and politics within the context of the Bengali liberation struggle. A prominent playwright, worked on notable plays such as 'Kabar' and 'Muktijuddher Itihas'. His works addressed social issues and historical contexts, reflecting the socio-political scenario of Bangladesh. The legacy includes a commitment to cultural expression and intellectual discourse.

Continue Reading

Gaston Miron

Canadian poet and influential author
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1996 28 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in Canadian literature, contributed significantly to the evolution of Quebec poetry. Authorship includes acclaimed works such as "L'homme rapaillé" which is considered a seminal text in the poetry of Quebec. Through this work, addressed themes of identity, culture, and the Quebec experience. Engaged with the cultural movements of Quebec in the 1960s and 1970s, influencing many contemporaries and future writers. Involved in literary and cultural circles, dedicated efforts to promote the French language and Quebec culture.

Continue Reading

Stubby Kaye

American entertainer, starring in Guys and Dolls
Born
November 11th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1997 27 years ago — 79 years old

An American entertainer recognized for contributions to musical theater and film. Gained fame through performances in the Broadway musical 'Guys and Dolls', playing the role of Nicely-Nicely Johnson. Also featured in the film adaptation of 'Guys and Dolls', which solidified a longstanding career in show business. Beyond stage performances, ventured into television and voice acting, enhancing the profile as a recognizable figure in entertainment. Career spanned several decades, with a style that resonated with audiences across generations.

Continue Reading

A. Leon Higginbotham Jr.

Civil Rights Advocate and Judge
Born
February 25th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1998 26 years ago — 70 years old

Birth occurred in 1928. Served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Contributed significantly to civil rights law, focusing on racial equality and social justice. Authored several influential books on law and history, including 'In the Matter of Color: Race and the American Legal Process'. Played a key role in numerous landmark cases related to civil rights. Participated in various professional organizations that advanced the cause of civil rights. Engaged in academia as a professor of law and held positions at institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania.

Continue Reading