H. P. Lovecraft

Horror fiction writer; Cthulhu Mythos

H. P. Lovecraft - Horror fiction writer; Cthulhu Mythos
Born

August 20th, 1890
134 years ago

Died

March 15th, 1937
88 years ago — 46 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American writer who specialized in weird fiction and horror. Significant contributions to the genre included the creation of the Cthulhu Mythos, a shared fictional universe populated by ancient cosmic entities and the exploration of existential dread. Worked as an editor and wrote many short stories and novellas that have influenced horror literature. Despite limited recognition during his lifetime, posthumous acclaim led to a reevaluation of his work, cementing his status within American literature. Writings, including 'The Call of Cthulhu' and 'At the Mountains of Madness', showcase a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.

Created the Cthulhu Mythos

Wrote 'The Call of Cthulhu'

Authored 'At the Mountains of Madness'

Other People Born on August 20th

Yootha Joyce

English actress in 'George and Mildred'
Born
August 20th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1980 44 years ago — 53 years old

An English actress gained recognition for portraying Mildred Roper in the television series 'George and Mildred', a popular spin-off from the sitcom 'Man About the House'. Joyce's career began in theatre before transitioning to television and film. She appeared in various film roles during the 1960s and 1970s, including parts in 'The Family Way' and 'The Great St Trinian's Train Robbery'. Her performance in 'George and Mildred' remains the most prominent aspect of her career, airing from 1976 to 1979. Joyce's contributions to television comedy helped define the genre in the UK during that era.

Continue Reading

Jack Wilson

Australian cricketer and Test player
Born
August 20th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 64 years old

Played cricket for Australia, representing the national team in Test matches. Debuted in the 1948 Ashes series against England. Career spanned from 1948 to 1953, contributing as a batsman and the occasional bowler. Known for a solid technique and presence at the crease. After retirement, continued to be involved in cricket through commentary and administration.

Continue Reading

Roy Gardner

English businessman and corporate leader
Born
August 20th, 1945 79 years ago

Born in 1945, a prominent English businessman led major corporate initiatives and held key leadership positions. Served as the Chief Executive Officer of National Grid plc and played a significant role in the company's expansion in the energy sector. Overseeing substantial transformations, facilitated mergers and acquisitions that strategically positioned National Grid as a leader in utility services. Contributed to advancements in energy management and operation efficiency within the organization.

Continue Reading

Edgar Guest

Poet and author of 'The Path to Home'
Born
August 20th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1959 65 years ago — 77 years old

Born in England and later emigrating to the United States, Guest built a prolific career as a poet and author. Many of his poems appeared in newspapers and magazines, capturing the daily lives and sentiments of ordinary people. Guest published numerous books of poetry and essays, with a particular focus on family, home, and the American spirit. His work resonated widely during the early to mid-20th century, leading to a significant following. Guest also served as the official poet of the state of Michigan.

Continue Reading

Leigh Griffiths

Scottish footballer, Celtic FC striker
Born
August 20th, 1990 34 years ago

Born in 1990, a professional footballer played as a striker. Started career at Livingston and gained experience with Dundee and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Achieved recognition after joining Celtic FC in 2014, where played a vital role in securing multiple Scottish Premiership titles. Known for exceptional goal-scoring ability and free-kick expertise. Competed for the Scottish national team in international tournaments.

Continue Reading

Dom Duff

Breton singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 20th, 1960 64 years ago

A Breton singer-songwriter and guitarist, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary Breton music. With a distinctive fusion of traditional Breton melodies and modern songwriting, created a unique sound that resonates with both local and international audiences. Composed and performed songs that reflect the culture and linguistic heritage of Brittany. Participated in various music festivals and collaborations that further popularized Breton music.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 15th

Smiley Culture

English singer and DJ known for reggae
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2011 14 years ago — 48 years old

An English singer and DJ, prominent in the genre of reggae and reggae fusion. Best recognized for contributions to British reggae music, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. Achieved significant success with the single 'Nine to Five' released in 1984. The artist combined elements of DJing and singing, contributing to the evolution of the genre within the UK music scene. Smiley Culture's work addressed social issues alongside showcasing cultural influences from Jamaica. His career spanned over three decades and included a variety of performances and recordings.

Continue Reading

René Clair

French film director and screenwriter
Born
November 11th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1981 44 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, this director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the film industry through innovative techniques and narratives. Works include 'Entr'acte' and 'Les Biches', showcasing a blend of surrealism and comedic elements. The director also played a role in advancing sound films, transitioning from silent films to talkies seamlessly. His work is characterized by a unique visual style and a focus on the human experience.

Continue Reading

Ron Silver

Actor and director in 'Chicago Fire'
Born
July 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old

An accomplished actor and director with a career spanning several decades. Gained significant recognition for performances in television and film, including roles in 'The West Wing' and 'Chicago Fire.' Silver had a notable presence on stage, winning a Tony Award for his performance in 'Brighton Beach Memoirs.' In addition to acting, he directed and produced various projects, showcasing his talent behind the scenes. He also had a role in shaping political discourse through his public appearances and discussions.

Continue Reading

Alexej von Jawlensky

Russian-German painter of abstract art
Born
March 13th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1941 84 years ago — 77 years old

A painter with roots in both Russia and Germany focused on expressionist and abstract styles. Initially influenced by Russian folk art and music, transitioned to a more geometric approach. Cofounded the expressionist group Der Blaue Reiter, active in establishing modern art perspectives. Developed a unique painting technique characterized by vibrant colors and simplified forms. His works reflect a spiritual quest, integrating themes of color and emotion.

Continue Reading

Miles Malleson

English actor and screenwriter
Born
May 25th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1969 56 years ago — 80 years old

This individual was an English actor and screenwriter who made significant contributions to film and theatre during the early to mid-20th century. In film, portrayal of various characters in films like 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The Man in the White Suit' showcased versatility. As a screenwriter, work included adaptations of classic literature and original screenplays that enriched British cinema. The influence within the theatre scene included involvement in notable productions, enhancing the cultural landscape of the time.

Continue Reading

James Joseph Sylvester

English mathematician and academic
Born
September 3rd, 1814 210 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1897 128 years ago — 82 years old

A mathematician and academic, contributions included significant work in matrix theory, invariant theory, and group theory. Held a professorship at the University of Oxford and later at Johns Hopkins University. Sylvester was instrumental in establishing the field of matrix algebra and made substantial contributions to number theory. He founded the American Journal of Mathematics and has a lasting legacy in mathematics education.

Continue Reading