Helena Westermarck

Finnish artist and writer with literary works

Helena Westermarck - Finnish artist and writer with literary works
Born

November 20th, 1857
167 years ago

Died

April 5th, 1938
86 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Finland

Links & References

A Finnish artist and writer engaged in literature and painting, contributing significantly to Finnish culture. Westermarck's literary career included works that explored themes of identity and society. Additionally, Westermarck was instrumental in the development of children's literature in Finland, writing engaging stories that captivated young readers. Her artistic endeavors included creating paintings that depicted Finnish landscapes and traditional life, showcasing the beauty of her home country. The combination of her literary and artistic talents left a lasting influence on Finnish art and literature, making her a prominent figure in the cultural history of Finland.

Authored notable children's stories

Created significant landscape paintings

Other People Born on November 20th

Vicente Feola

Football manager; World Cup winner
Born
November 20th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 66 years old

A Brazilian football manager and coach, contributed significantly to the sport in Brazil. Led the national team to its first FIFA World Cup title in 1958. Managed various clubs in Brazil, including São Paulo FC and Botafogo. Implemented innovative training methods and tactics that influenced coaching in Brazil. His era marked the emergence of Brazil as a football powerhouse.

Continue Reading

Jeff Dowd

Film producer and activist
Born
November 20th, 1949 75 years ago

Born in 1949, this individual gained prominence as a film producer and activist. Closely associated with the independent film movement, they played a key role in promoting various filmmakers and projects. The influential role in the production of 'The Big Lebowski' is a significant highlight, which has earned a cult following over the years. This individual has also been involved in activism related to environmental issues and the arts, advocating for creative expression and social change.

Continue Reading

Félix Varela

Cuban Roman Catholic priest and educator
Born
November 20th, 1788 236 years ago
Died
1853 172 years ago — 65 years old

Born in Cuba, a Roman Catholic priest dedicated to education and social reform. Played a pivotal role in promoting education and freedom of thought in 19th-century Cuba. Advocated for Cuban independence and religious tolerance, significantly influencing societal views. Also contributed to the development of the Catholic Church's approach to education and community service during his time. Emigrated to the United States, where efforts continued to support Cuban independence and cultural awareness.

Continue Reading

Fasilides

Ethiopian emperor ruling from 1632
Born
November 20th, 1603 421 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1667 357 years ago — 63 years old

Ruled as Emperor of Ethiopia from 1632 to 1667. Established the city of Gondar as the royal capital, leading to its development as a center of culture and administration. Initiated the construction of castles and churches, including the famous Fasil Ghebbi. Strengthened the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and its influence in the region, engaging in religious policies that fostered unity among Christians. Promoted trade and diplomatic relations with other nations, enhancing Ethiopia's connections with the outside world.

Continue Reading

Herbert Pitman

English sailor and Antarctic explorer
Born
November 20th, 1877 147 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 84 years old

Born in England, a sailor contributed significantly to polar exploration in the early 20th century. Participated in the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 1914-1917, serving as second-in-command. This journey aimed to cross Antarctica via the South Pole. The expedition faced numerous challenges, including ice entrapment and harsh weather conditions, yet it became a pivotal moment in exploration history. The arduous journey over ice and the struggle for survival was documented and studied.

Continue Reading

Josiah Royce

American Philosopher, 'The Philosophy of Loyalty'
Born
November 20th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1855, this American philosopher focused on idealism and the nature of loyalty. A significant figure in the development of American philosophy, his work contributed to discussions on community and individual experiences. He served as a professor at Harvard University and wrote extensively, with 'The Philosophy of Loyalty' being one of his most influential texts. His philosophical ideas explored the relationships between self, society, and the concepts of loyalty and community.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 5th

Harold Osborn

American high jumper and decathlete
Born
April 13th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1975 49 years ago — 75 years old

Competed in track and field events, specializing in high jump and decathlon. Achieved significant success in the 1920s, winning multiple national titles. Secured a gold medal in the high jump at the 1924 Paris Olympics, setting an Olympic record with a jump of 2.03 meters. Dominated collegiate competitions, representing the University of Michigan.

Continue Reading

Franz von Vecsey

Violinst and composer of classical music
Born
1893 132 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1935 89 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent Hungarian violinist and composer, one of the notable figures in the early 20th-century classical music scene. Best recognized for performances and recordings that showcased exceptional technique and musicality. Collaborated with distinguished conductors and orchestras throughout Europe. His compositions include works for violin and piano, contributing to the chamber music repertoire. Gained recognition for both performance and composition, leaving a lasting legacy in the classical music world.

Continue Reading

Baruch Samuel Blumberg

Physician and geneticist, Nobel laureate
Born
July 28th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2011 13 years ago — 85 years old

A physician and geneticist contributed significantly to medical science. Discovered the Hepatitis B virus, leading to the development of a vaccine that has saved millions of lives. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for the discovery of the virus. Served as a professor and director at various institutions, which included the quest for new ways to combat viral diseases.

Continue Reading

Alphons Diepenbrock

Dutch composer and music educator
Born
1862 163 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1921 103 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent Dutch composer, focused on vocal music and orchestral works, contributed significantly to early 20th-century music. Education in music began in the late 19th century. Influenced by Wagner and Debussy, embraced impressionism in compositions. Worked as a professor, imparting knowledge of music theory and composition to students. Achieved recognition for choral and vocal compositions, often incorporating Dutch poetry. Notable works include orchestral pieces and art songs. Later works reflected a more personal style, establishing him as a significant figure in Dutch music history. Diepenbrock also engaged in music criticism and analysis, promoting contemporary composers.

Continue Reading

Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach

Austrian architect and Baroque designer
Born
1656 369 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1723 301 years ago — 67 years old

An influential architect and sculptor, contributed significantly to Baroque architecture in Austria. Designed notable buildings, including the Karlskirche in Vienna, showcasing grandiose dome structures. Authored 'Entwurf einer historischen Architektur', which explored architectural history and design principles. Served as a key figure in shaping the architectural landscape of Vienna during the 17th century.

Continue Reading

Edward Young

English poet and author of Night Thoughts
Born
July 3rd, 1683 341 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1765 259 years ago — 81 years old

Originated from England, this poet and author gained prominence in the early 18th century. 'Night Thoughts', a philosophical poem reflecting on life, death, and immortality, stands as the most significant contribution to English literature. The lengthy poem was published in several parts between 1742 and 1745, exploring deep existential themes. The work was widely read and contributed to discussions about mortality and the afterlife during the Enlightenment period. Additionally, other works included 'The Complaint: or, Night-Thoughts on Life, Death, and Immortality'. This literary figure's influence extended beyond poetry, marking a notable period in the transition from metaphysical to romantic poetry.

Continue Reading