George Berkeley
Anglo-Irish philosopher of idealism
Contributed significantly to early modern philosophy, advocating for immaterialism, which asserted that objects only exist as perceptions. Authored 'A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge', challenging the materialism prevalent in his era. Engaged in debates with prominent thinkers such as John Locke and David Hume, emphasizing the role of the perceiver in the existence of objects. Also served as the Bishop of Cloyne, emphasizing the relationship between philosophy and theology.
Authored 'A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge'
Developed the philosophical concept of immaterialism
Other People Born on March 12th
Leonard Chess
Record executive, co-founder of Chess Records
Born
March 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1969 57 years ago — 52 years old
Co-founded Chess Records, a significant record label in the history of American music. Established the label in 1950 alongside his brother Phil, focusing on blues and R&B music. Worked with iconic artists such as Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, and Chuck Berry, contributing to the popularization of these genres. Contributed to the development of rock and roll music through the label’s influential productions. Chess Records became a major force in the music industry during the 1950s and 1960s.
Continue ReadingDaniel Samohin
Israeli figure skater and Olympian
Born
March 12th, 1998 27 years ago
Began figure skating at a young age and trained extensively. Competed in international events, showcasing talent in both singles and pairs. Represented Israel at various championships, including the European Championships and World Championships. Achieved a notable placing at the ISU Grand Prix, marking a significant achievement in competitive figure skating.
Continue ReadingValérie Nicolas
French handball player and champion
Born
March 12th, 1975 50 years ago
Competed in handball, achieving significant success on both national and international levels. Represented France in multiple championships and contributed to the team's victory in the 2003 World Championship. Played for club teams, including UC Bordeaux and Club Handball Pays d'Aix, showcasing talents that led to winning domestic league titles.
Continue ReadingChen Jianghua
Basketball player for Guangdong Southern Tigers
Born
March 12th, 1989 36 years ago
Born in 1989, played professional basketball in China. Started career with Guangdong Southern Tigers and contributed to team's success in the Chinese Basketball Association. Played for the national team and participated in international competitions, helping enhance the profile of basketball in China.
Continue ReadingZurab Sotkilava
Operatic tenor with acclaimed performances
Born
March 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent operatic tenor from Georgia, dedicated much of his career to the performance of classic operas. Gained recognition for powerful performances at renowned opera houses. Collaborated with various orchestras and participated in international competitions, achieving noteworthy accolades. Held positions at leading opera companies and performed under notable conductors. His contributions to the operatic repertoire left a significant mark in the field.
Continue ReadingOleh Dopilka
Ukrainian footballer and defender
Born
March 12th, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, a Ukrainian footballer played primarily as a defender. Gained recognition for contributions to several clubs in Ukraine, with significant time spent at FC Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih. Played for international youth teams before receiving call-ups to the senior national team. Transitioned to play in the lower divisions, showcasing versatility and experience throughout a career marked by participation in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 14th
Artur Kapp
Estonian composer and conductor
Born
1878 148 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1952 74 years ago — 74 years old
Active during the early to mid-20th century, this composer and conductor contributed significantly to Estonian music. His work included symphonies, choral pieces, and operas, reflecting national themes and folk traditions. Educated in both Estonia and abroad, conducted various orchestras and was involved in the establishment of music education in Estonia. The composer’s music displays a blend of classical Western elements with local Estonian influences. His works are performed by national and international ensembles, contributing to the cultural heritage of Estonia.
Continue ReadingPeter Finch
Actor in 'Network' and 'The Trial'
Born
September 28th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1977 49 years ago — 60 years old
An English-Australian actor recognized for a significant career in film and theatre. Achieved critical acclaim for performances in 'Network', which earned an Academy Award for Best Actor posthumously, and 'The Trial', directed by Orson Welles. Also appeared in notable films such as 'The Nun's Story' and 'The Death of a President'. Finch's work extended to stage performances, notably in the West End. His contributions to the film industry are marked by a strong presence in both British and Australian cinema, influencing future generations of actors.
Continue ReadingJim Gary
American sculptor and artist
Born
March 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2006 20 years ago — 66 years old
An American sculptor created intricate sculptures primarily using discarded car parts. His most recognized works included whimsical, life-sized representations of animals and figures, demonstrating a unique integration of art and everyday materials. His sculptures were showcased in numerous exhibitions across the United States. Gary's prominent installations captured the attention of both art enthusiasts and the general public, highlighting the expressive potential of repurposed materials. His commitment to crafting sculptures from found objects solidified a distinctive niche within the contemporary art scene.
Continue ReadingTokugawa Mitsukuni
Japanese daimyō and historian
Born
July 11th, 1628 397 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1701 325 years ago — 72 years old
A daimyō during the Edo period, played a significant role in the governance of Japan. As the first lord of the Mito Domain, worked to expand the influence of the Tokugawa shogunate. Contributed to historical studies and compiled 'Mito Compendium', which gathered various scholarly works and historical texts. Engaged in the promotion of Confucian studies and cultural development within his domain.
Continue ReadingDorothea Mackellar
Australian poet and author of 'My Country'
Born
July 1st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1968 58 years ago — 82 years old
Born in Australia, a well-regarded poet and author played a significant role in shaping Australian literature. Best remembered for the poem 'My Country', which expresses a deep connection to the Australian landscape, the work became a defining piece of Australian identity. Apart from poetry, contributions include essays and articles that reflect on Australian life and nature. Active in advocating for women’s rights and involvement in literary circles, advocated for women's participation in literature during a time when it was often overlooked.
Continue ReadingLaura E. Richards
American author and poet with notable works
Born
1850 176 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1943 83 years ago — 93 years old
An American author and poet contributed significantly to literature and women's rights. Worked alongside her mother, wrote extensively on topics ranging from children’s literature to poetry. Throughout a prolific career, published multiple books, essays, and poems. One of the notable works includes 'Martha's Vineyard: A Group of Towns', which reflects the engagement with local culture. Was active in advocating for women's suffrage and other social issues during her lifetime.
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