Friedrich Dürrenmatt
Swiss author and playwright
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
Toafofoa Sipley
Rugby league player; Warrior's achievement
Born
January 5th, 1995 30 years ago
A rugby league player from New Zealand, achieved notable success in the National Rugby League (NRL). Played as a prop for the New Zealand Warriors. Demonstrated skill and power in matches, contributing to team performance during multiple seasons. Recognized for physical presence and ability to impact games positively.
Continue ReadingMarkus Reiner
Physicist with contributions to fluid dynamics
Born
January 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1976 49 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1886, a prominent physicist and engineer, made significant contributions to the field of fluid dynamics. Emphasized the study of behavior of fluids under various conditions and contributed to theoretical frameworks that are fundamental to modern fluid mechanics. Engaged in academic work and influenced future generations through teaching and research. Published various scholarly papers and co-authored texts in the field, establishing a foundation for future advancements in physics and engineering.
Continue ReadingZebulon 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 ReadingGeorge Tenet
Civil servant, 18th Director of CIA
Born
January 5th, 1953 72 years ago
Served as the 18th Director of Central Intelligence from 1997 to 2004. Oversaw the CIA during significant events including the September 11 attacks and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Played a crucial role in intelligence operations and national security policy. Worked on the formation of Homeland Security after the 9/11 attacks. Previously held various positions within the intelligence community, including Deputy National Security Advisor for President Bill Clinton.
Continue ReadingMiroslav Raduljica
Serbian basketball player and Olympian
Born
January 5th, 1988 37 years ago
Competed professionally in basketball primarily as a center. Played for several teams in various leagues, including the EuroLeague with Partizan Belgrade and the NBA with the Milwaukee Bucks. Represented Serbia in international competitions, contributing to the national team's achievements. Participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, competing against top-tier national squads. Spent significant time in the Chinese Basketball Association, enhancing his international presence.
Continue ReadingNori Aoki
Baseball outfielder, 2014 MLB All-Star
Born
January 5th, 1982 43 years ago
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 2012 with the Milwaukee Brewers. Played for several teams including the Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, and Seattle Mariners. Achieved All-Star status in 2014 while with the Giants. Contributed to the team's success with a focus on batting average and on-base percentage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 14th
Fred Thurston
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
A professional American football player, played as an offensive lineman in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Giants and the Minnesota Vikings from 1955 to 1964. Contributed to the Giants' victory in the NFL Championship in 1956, which was the team's first championship. Played in Super Bowl III with the Vikings. After retiring from football, engaged in coaching and mentoring young athletes. Over the years, served as a role model in the community.
Continue ReadingFranz Schlegelberger
German judge and politician
Born
October 23rd, 1876 149 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1970 55 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 ReadingWalter Lippmann
American journalist and political columnist
Born
September 23rd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1974 51 years ago — 85 years old
Lippmann served as a prominent American journalist and author throughout the 20th century. He co-founded the New Republic and wrote a long-running column titled 'Today and Tomorrow'. His work addressed issues of public opinion, democracy, and foreign policy. Lippmann authored several influential books including 'Public Opinion' and 'Drift and Mastery'. He received the Pulitzer Prize for his writings in 1958.
Continue ReadingPierre Dupuy
French historian and scholar
Born
November 27th, 1582 443 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1651 374 years ago — 69 years old
Contributed significantly to historical scholarship during the early 17th century. Focused on the documentation and publication of key historical texts. Played a role in the editing and commentary of works related to French history, particularly those of the 16th century. Engaged with notable figures of the time to advance the study of history.
Continue ReadingYu Kwang-chung
Chinese writer and poet
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
A significant figure in contemporary Chinese literature, contributions spanned poetry, essays, and translations. Born in 1926, early education began in Beijing, followed by studies in Taiwan. Focus shifted towards exploring identity and cultural displacement through writing. Later, settled in the United States where engagement with literary communities continued. Works often reflected personal experiences and societal observations. Received numerous accolades throughout his career, highlighting the importance of literary contribution to Chinese culture both domestically and abroad. His legacy continues through various publications, with notable emphasis on poetic expression.
Continue ReadingVadym Tyshchenko
Footballer and manager with FC Metalurh
Born
March 24th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 52 years old
Born in Ukraine, a professional footballer began his career at FC Metalurh Zaporizhzhia. Transitioned to a management role after retiring from playing, taking charge of various teams including FC Metalurh and FC Dnipro. During playing career, recognized for defensive skills and leadership on the field.
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