Georg Büchner
German playwright and revolutionary writer
A German-Swiss poet and playwright, created influential works in the early 19th century. Büchner's explosive style and incisive depictions of social issues made significant contributions to modern drama. The play 'Woyzeck' remains a seminal piece in theatrical literature, exploring themes of mental illness and social injustice. Another noted play, 'Danton's Death', presents a critical view of the French Revolution and the complexities of revolutionary politics. Büchner's writings reflect a strong commitment to social change and were influenced by his involvement in political movements, including his association with the Vormärz period.
Wrote the play 'Woyzeck'
Wrote the play 'Danton's Death'
Other People Born on October 17th
Alan Jackson
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago
This American singer-songwriter began a career in music in the late 1980s. Influenced by traditional country music, the artist gained success with a blend of honky-tonk and mainstream country sounds. The debut album, 'Here in the Real World,' released in 1990, achieved significant commercial success. Followed by a series of chart-topping albums and singles throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the artist played a crucial role in the resurgence of traditional country music during that era. The artist has won numerous awards, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) Awards and Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Sands
American lawyer specializing in international law
Born
October 17th, 1960 65 years ago
Specialized in international law and human rights. Served as a professor of law at University College London. Authored several significant publications, including 'East West Street', which explores the origins of genocide and crimes against humanity. Engaged in high-profile legal cases and arbitration, contributing to various international legal proceedings.
Continue ReadingRussell Gilbert
Australian comedian and actor, best known for 'The Comedy Company.'
Born
October 17th, 1959 66 years ago
Born in Melbourne, a career in entertainment spanned several decades starting in the 1980s. Gained recognition as a cast member on 'The Comedy Company,' a popular television sketch show that aired on Network Ten. Contributed as a writer and performer, showcasing comedic talents through various characters and sketches. Extended career to film and theatre, including roles in productions such as 'The Wog Boy' and 'The Wog Boy 2: The Kings of Mykonos.' Regularly appeared in radio shows and comedy festivals, engaging audiences with humor across different platforms.
Continue ReadingMark Gatiss
Screenwriter and actor of 'Sherlock'
Born
October 17th, 1966 59 years ago
An English actor, screenwriter, and novelist, this individual has made significant contributions to television and literature. Co-created the acclaimed series 'Sherlock' alongside Steven Moffat, which reimagined Arthur Conan Doyle's detective stories for a modern audience. Appeared as Mycroft Holmes in the same series. Contributed to 'Doctor Who' as a writer and actor, helping to shape the show's direction in the 21st century. Authored several novels, including 'The Bones of St. Nicholas,' showcasing versatility in storytelling. Involved in various theater productions, demonstrating a strong foundation in dramatic arts.
Continue ReadingHoward Alden
American Jazz Guitarist and Composer
Born
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago
Guitarist and composer performed extensively within the jazz genre. Alden played with notable musicians and was prominently featured in various jazz festivals and recordings. Contributions include collaborations with artists like Dizzy Gillespie and Hank Jones. Known for expertise in the use of the seven-string guitar, Alden has released multiple albums highlighting original compositions and classic jazz standards.
Continue ReadingDavid Means
American Short Story Writer
Born
October 17th, 1961 64 years ago
An accomplished short story writer, contributions include significant works in contemporary fiction. Authored several collections, highlighting human experiences through intricate narratives. Works often explore themes of alienation and the complexity of modern life. Received critical acclaim through literary awards and nominations. Teaching experience includes writing workshops at multiple universities, fostering the next generation of writers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 19th
Harper Lee
American author of 'To Kill a Mockingbird'
Born
April 28th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
An American author wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird', published in 1960. The novel addresses serious issues such as racial injustice and moral growth in the Deep South during the 1930s. Alongside the critical acclaim received for this work, it gained widespread popularity and is often included in school curricula. In 2015, a second novel, 'Go Set a Watchman', was published, which was written before 'To Kill a Mockingbird' but was set two decades later. This work revisited the original characters and explored themes of ethics and social change.
Continue ReadingThomas Burgess
Bishop and philosopher in England
Born
November 18th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1837 188 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Bishop of St David's and was a prominent philosopher during the early 19th century. Contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy. Worked to improve the education system within the Church and advocated for the training of clergy. Engaged in the literary world through writings that explored religious and philosophical themes.
Continue ReadingValeri Kubasov
Russian engineer and astronaut with a Soyuz mission.
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
An engineer and astronaut, he participated in multiple space missions throughout his career. Made contributions to the Soviet space program and was a crew member on the Soyuz 36 and Soyuz 37 missions. Conducted scientific experiments aboard the Salyut space stations and spent over 10 days in space during various missions. Worked as a test pilot and contributed to the development of aeronautics and spaceflight technology in Russia.
Continue ReadingOllie Matson
American football player and sprinter
Born
May 1st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 80 years old
Excelled in track and field and professional football. Achieved recognition as a world-class sprinter, competing in the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, representing the United States. Played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the Chicago Cardinals and the Detroit Lions, among other teams. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972 for outstanding contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingCharles Chauncy
Minister and theologian, Harvard president
Born
November 5th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1672 353 years ago — 79 years old
Involved in early American ministry and theology, served as a prominent minister in Boston. Contributed significantly to religious thought and education. Held the office of President at Harvard College from 1654 to 1672. Engaged in controversies over church governance and civic matters, advocating for a congregationalist approach. Played a crucial role in the development of Harvard as a center for Puritan thought.
Continue ReadingJohn Basilone
U.S. Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipient
Born
November 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1945 80 years ago — 28 years old
Served as a United States Marine Corps sergeant during World War II. Participated in the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Battle of Iwo Jima. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Guadalcanal. His actions contributed significantly to the success of the campaign.
Continue Reading