Grandma Moses
American painter of folk art
An American painter began painting in her seventies, focusing on folk art that depicted rural life and landscapes. Paintings featured vibrant colors and a naive style, capturing scenes of everyday activities and seasonal changes. Gained national attention after a 1940 exhibition in New York City. Art remains celebrated for its charm and simplicity, appealing to a broad audience. Continued creating art into her nineties and received recognition for contributions to American art.
Exhibited works at the Museum of Modern Art
Painted over 1,500 works throughout her career
Other People Born on September 7th
Taylor Caldwell
Author of historical and psychological novels
Born
September 7th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1985 40 years ago — 84 years old
An English-American author, primarily recognized for historical and psychological novels, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Wrote numerous bestsellers during a prolific career, which included works such as 'Dynasty of Death' and 'Captains and the Kings'. Caldwell's writing often explored themes of power, morality, and the human experience, appealing to a wide audience and receiving critical acclaim. The author produced over 30 novels, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of her time. Additionally, her writings were adapted for television and film, expanding her reach beyond literature.
Continue ReadingTristan Bernard
French author and playwright
Born
September 7th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1947 78 years ago — 81 years old
An author and playwright contributed significantly to French literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Renowned for a unique blend of wit and insight, engaged in various literary forms, including plays, novels, and essays. Wrote notable works such as 'La paix du ménage' and 'Le moussaillon', which explored human relationships and society. Served as a member of the Académie française, receiving recognition for contributions to French culture and literature.
Continue ReadingReginald West
English politician, 6th Baron De La Warr
Born
September 7th, 1395 630 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1450 575 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1395, held the title of 6th Baron De La Warr. Played a significant role in the political landscape of England during the early 15th century. Involved in the governance of the realm amidst the backdrop of the Hundred Years' War. Served in various capacities throughout his life, contributing to both local and national matters.
Continue ReadingDavid Packard
Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard
Born
September 7th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An American engineer and businessman co-founded Hewlett-Packard in 1939, which became a leading technology company, particularly known for its innovations in computing and electronics. Under leadership, the company pioneered several groundbreaking products, including the first programmable scientific calculator. The company contributed significantly to the development of Silicon Valley's technology landscape. In 1972, the company introduced the HP-35, the world’s first scientific pocket calculator. Its success helped popularize calculators in educational and professional settings. Packard served on various boards and was involved in public service, including a role in the U.S. Department of Defense.
Continue ReadingMaria Anna of Austria
Archduchess and Queen of Hungary
Born
September 7th, 1683 342 years ago
Died
1754 271 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1683, one of the daughters of Emperor Leopold I and his second wife, Eleonor Magdalene of Neuburg. Married Joseph I, Holy Roman Emperor, in 1708, becoming Empress after his ascension. Engaged in court affairs and supported the arts. After the death of Joseph I in 1711, served as regent for their son, Charles VI. Her tenure as Empress Consort included efforts to strengthen the Habsburg monarchy and navigate challenges from rival powers.
Continue ReadingEdith Sitwell
English poet and literary critic
Born
September 7th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1964 61 years ago — 77 years old
Born in England, a significant literary figure associated with the modernist movement, primarily recognized for contributions to poetry and literary criticism. Published major works including 'Faults and Flaws' and 'The Shadow of the Sun'. Involved in the Poetry Revival of the 1920s and 1930s, promoting various poets and hosting literary events. Her unique style combined traditional forms with innovative elements, leading to a distinct voice in 20th-century literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 13th
Samuel Gompers
Labor leader and founder of the AFL
Born
January 27th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1924 101 years ago — 74 years old
Born in England, a labor leader emigrated to the United States where he played a significant role in the labor movement. Established the American Federation of Labor (AFL), advocating for workers' rights and better working conditions. Served as the AFL's first president, a position held for almost four decades. Focused on trade unionism and collective bargaining, promoting efforts for labor legislation.
Continue ReadingVictor de Laprade
French poet and literary critic
Born
January 13th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1883 142 years ago — 71 years old
Born in France in 1812, a poet and literary critic contributed significantly to French literature in the 19th century. His poetry often reflected Romantic themes and explored philosophical ideas. De Laprade published several collections, with 'Les Poèmes' being among the notable works. His critical essays dissected contemporary poetry and advocated for artistic integrity, influencing future generations of writers and critics.
Continue ReadingWoldemar Voigt
German physicist and academic
Born
September 2nd, 1850 175 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1919 106 years ago — 69 years old
Contributions included work on the theory of elasticity and the study of wave propagation. Developed the concept of Voigt's continuum, which improved understanding of material behaviors under stress. Served as a professor at various universities, influencing the education of future scientists. Published significant papers and served on editorial boards of scientific journals.
Continue ReadingDora Marsden
English author and women's rights activist
Born
March 5th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1960 65 years ago — 78 years old
An English author and activist, contributed to feminist literature and women's rights in the early 20th century. Served as editor of the influential magazine 'The Freewoman', which became a platform for feminist thought and discussion. In 1913, founded the Women’s Social and Political Union, aligning with the suffragette movement to advocate for women's suffrage. Authored works that critiqued social and political norms, focusing on women's contributions to society.
Continue ReadingÁnyos Jedlik
Hungarian physicist and engineer
Born
January 11th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1895 130 years ago — 95 years old
Contributed to the fields of physics and engineering in Hungary. Developed the first electric motor and created a method for producing hydrogen gas through electrolysis. Also known for contributions to optics and the study of light. Worked on the scientific development of the telegraph and was involved in educational reforms.
Continue ReadingMaimonides
Spanish rabbi and philosopher
Born
March 30th, 1135 890 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1204 821 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent medieval rabbi and philosopher, this figure made significant contributions to Jewish law and philosophy. Born in Córdoba, Spain, in 1135, he later moved to Morocco and then Egypt. His major works include 'Mishneh Torah,' a comprehensive code of Jewish law, and 'Guide for the Perplexed,' which addresses the relationship between religion and philosophy. His writings sought to reconcile religious tradition with rational thought.
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