George MacDonald
Scottish author and poet of fantasy tales

Born
December 10th, 1824
200 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1905
119 years ago — 80 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Scotland
Links & References
A Scottish minister and writer specializing in children's literature, focused on fantasy and fairy tales. Significant contributions include the creation of the genre alongside contemporaries such as Lewis Carroll and J.M. Barrie. Wrote notable works such as 'At the Back of the North Wind' and 'Phantastes', which influenced subsequent writers like C.S. Lewis. Engaged with themes of imagination and spiritual growth through storytelling, maintaining a firm connection to Christian values in his narratives.
Authored 'At the Back of the North Wind'
Wrote 'Phantastes', influencing modern fantasy literature
Other People Born on December 10th
Jaromil Jireš
A prominent Czech director and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the Czech New Wave cinema. Directed the film 'Valerie and Her Week of Wonders' in 1970, which became a hallmark of surrealist storytelling and is often cited in discussions of 20th-century cinema. Collaborated with various producers and artists to create a body of work that reflected the complexities of human experience and social issues during a turbulent period in Czechoslovakia's history. His works often blended fantasy and reality, offering unique storytelling techniques that have been analyzed and celebrated in film studies.
Continue ReadingMichael Clarke Duncan
An American actor gained recognition for notable roles in film and television. Starred in 'The Green Mile' as John Coffey, earning nominations for an Academy Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Appeared in 'Daredevil' as Wilson Fisk and had roles in 'The Whole Nine Yards' and 'Armageddon'. Voiced characters in animated films and made guest appearances on various television series. Worked extensively in theater prior to film career, contributing to artistic development.
Continue ReadingKenneth Branagh
An influential figure in film and theater, this individual directed and starred in several adaptations of William Shakespeare's plays. Achievements include directing and acting in 'Henry V', which received critical acclaim and earned Academy Award nominations. Also directed and acted in 'Much Ado About Nothing', further establishing a reputation for Shakespearean adaptations. Produced and starred in various other projects, showcasing versatility and talent in multiple roles in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAnna Jesień
Born in 1978, this athlete specialized in the 400 meters hurdles. Competing at international levels, she represented Poland in several championships. Achieved notable success at the 2006 European Athletics Championships, winning the gold medal. Additionally, participated in the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. Throughout her career, set personal bests that positioned her among the top hurdlers in Europe.
Continue ReadingKen Campbell
This individual contributed significantly to theatre and television in England. Active during the 20th century, involvement included a prominent role in the Science Fiction Theatre of Liverpool, blending innovative storytelling with experimental performance techniques. Leadership in the experimental theatre movement established a reputation for originality and creativity. Collaboration with notable playwrights and other artists further enriched the artistic landscape.
Continue ReadingMark Aguirre
Played college basketball at DePaul University, where an impressive performance led to becoming the number one overall pick in the 1981 NBA Draft. Played primarily for the Dallas Mavericks and later for the Detroit Pistons. Was part of the Pistons team that won the NBA Championship in 1990. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of players and teams at various levels.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Nick Gravenites
Born in 1938, this American musician established a career as a prominent singer-songwriter in the blues genre. In the 1960s, performed with various artists and became a member of the band Electric Flag, contributing to their distinctive sound. Co-wrote the classic song "Born in Chicago," which became an anthem for the Chicago blues scene. Produced numerous solo albums, showcasing personal songwriting and rich vocal style.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hazlitt
Born in 1778, this prominent English essayist and critic contributed significantly to literature during the early 19th century. Writing extensively on topics ranging from art to politics, produced influential works that examined human nature and society. His essays are marked by a personal touch and insightful observations. Engaged in the Romantic Movement, aligned with figures such as Coleridge and Wordsworth. His critical analyses shaped literary criticism in his era, and he often challenged existing norms through sharp commentary.
Continue ReadingKen Norton
An accomplished boxer and actor, this individual achieved significant recognition in the heavyweight boxing division. Won the WBC Heavyweight Championship in 1973, famously defeating Muhammad Ali in a closely contested bout. In addition to a successful boxing career, ventured into acting, appearing in films such as 'The Green Berets' and the 'Doctor Death' television series. Known for physical strength and charisma, this figure became a recognizable personality in both the sports and entertainment realms.
Continue ReadingBob Hayes
Achieved Olympic success in sprinting and professional accolades in American football. Won a gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and played for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Contributed to the Cowboys' victory in Super Bowl VI and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. Also excelled in college football at Florida A&M University.
Continue ReadingJohn Cockcroft
An English physicist contributed significantly to nuclear physics and particle acceleration. Developed the Cockcroft-Walton generator, which was the first device to accelerate protons to high energies. Led a team that achieved the first artificial nuclear reaction by bombarding lithium with protons, resulting in the release of alpha particles. Served as a professor and held leadership positions in various academic institutions, including the University of Cambridge.
Continue ReadingTherese Neumann
A German mystic recognized for experiencing stigmata, Neumann reportedly underwent various spiritual and mystical phenomena. Living in the town of Konnersreuth, she became known for her intense spiritual experiences, which included visions related to Christ's passion, leading to her being viewed as a spiritual figure by many. Reports indicated that she lived without consuming solid food for several years, subsisting solely on the Eucharist, which garnered significant attention and controversy. Her life was marked by numerous healings attributed to her intercession, reinforcing her status among devotees.
Continue Reading