Henri La Fontaine
Belgian lawyer and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 22nd, 1854
171 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1943
81 years ago — 89 years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Belgium
Links & References
A prominent lawyer and author, contributed to international law and peace efforts. Instrumental in the establishment of the International Peace Bureau and served as its president. Advocated for disarmament and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, significantly impacting legal frameworks regarding peace. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1913 for efforts in promoting peace and understanding among nations.
Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1913
Served as president of the International Peace Bureau
Other People Born on April 22nd
Ellen Glasgow
Born in 1873, this author became prominent in the early 20th century with works focusing on the American South and women's experiences. Notable for capturing the intricacies of Southern life, significant novels include 'Barren Ground' and 'The Descendant'. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1942 for 'In This Our Life'. A member of the Southern literary tradition, her writings reflect themes of social change, tradition, and conflict. The author influenced Southern literature and showcased the challenges that women faced in society during her time.
Continue ReadingMichael Atiyah
Accomplished contributions in mathematics, particularly in topology and geometry. Served as the President of the Royal Society from 1990 to 1995. Developed the Atiyah-Singer Index Theorem with Isadore Singer, establishing a deep connection between analysis and topology, which has had lasting implications in both mathematics and theoretical physics. Also worked on gauge theory and its applications in particle physics.
Continue ReadingKaneto Shindo
Kaneto Shindo was a Japanese director, producer, and screenwriter who significantly contributed to the Japanese film industry. Starting his career in the 1930s, Shindo became a prominent figure in the post-war cinema era. His filmmaking often explored themes of human emotion and social issues, reflecting on the complexities of Japanese life. 'Onibaba', released in 1964, is among his most acclaimed works, gaining international recognition for its haunting narrative and visual style. Shindo established a production company to support independent filmmaking and mentored several aspiring filmmakers throughout his career.
Continue ReadingEthel Smyth
An English composer and suffragette, made significant contributions to classical music. Composed operas, orchestral works, and chamber music, showcasing a distinctive style. Gained prominence with the opera 'The Wreckers' and composed the march 'The March of the Women' in support of women's suffrage. Worked closely with prominent figures like Emmeline Pankhurst and participated in suffrage activities.
Continue ReadingGopalkrishna Gandhi
Served as a civil servant and politician in India, holding significant roles in government. Became the 22nd Governor of West Bengal, contributing to governance during his tenure. Engaged in various diplomatic and public service roles, enhancing administrative functions. Advocated for education and culture through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingDee Strange-Gordon
A professional baseball player, this individual played as a second baseman and shortstop in Major League Baseball. Beginning a career in 2011, the individual played for several teams, including the Miami Marlins and the Seattle Mariners. In 2015, secured a batting title in the National League with the Marlins, showcasing exceptional hitting ability. Notably played in the 2016 All-Star Game and earned recognition for speed on the bases, often ranking among the league leaders in stolen bases during his tenure. This player's journey includes significant contributions to various teams, embodying athletic skill and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
Hugh Beaumont
An actor and director, this individual starred in the television series 'Leave It to Beaver' as Ward Cleaver from 1957 to 1963. The role showcased a post-World War II American family dynamic, contributing significantly to television history. In addition to acting, directed several episodes of the show, blending his talents in front of and behind the camera. Other television appearances included roles in series such as 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' and 'Perry Mason'. Worked in various films during the 1940s and 1950s, transitioning into television as it emerged as a prominent entertainment medium. Participated in radio drama earlier in career, becoming familiar to audiences across platforms. Later years included acting in television commercials and making guest appearances.
Continue ReadingStanley Kunitz
Born in 1905, this individual became a prominent figure in American literature as a poet and translator. Celebrated for his eloquent style and exploration of themes such as nature and identity, this individual published numerous collections, starting with 'Intensities' in 1930. In 1959, received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for 'The Testing-Tree.' Served as the Poet Laureate of the United States in 1976 and held a long tenure and influential role at Boston University. His work remains significant in the landscape of American poetry, influencing future generations of poets.
Continue ReadingWillem Drees
Served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands from 1948 to 1958. Played a significant role in post-war reconstruction and economic recovery. Led the Labour Party and was a key figure in Dutch politics during the period of rebuilding after World War II. Oversaw social reforms and the establishment of the welfare state in the Netherlands, contributing to the modernization of Dutch society.
Continue ReadingHenry IV of France
Ruled as King of France from 1589 until his assassination in 1610. First monarch of the House of Bourbon, significantly strengthened the central authority of the French state. Promoted religious tolerance with the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting substantial rights to Huguenots after decades of civil war over religious disputes. Implemented economic reforms that led to recovery and improvement in agriculture and trade. His reign marked the transition from the Wars of Religion to a period of relative peace.
Continue ReadingErnst Kummer
Contributed significantly to algebraic number theory, particularly in the development of the theory of ideals. Served as a professor at various universities, including the University of Berlin. Published important works that advanced the understanding of algebra and number theory, including investigations on the properties of hypergeometric functions. Introduced the notion of Kummer extension and provided foundational work that influenced future mathematicians in the field.
Continue ReadingFanny Mendelssohn
A prominent pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the music of the early Romantic period. Established a reputation through both original works and arrangements. Published several compositions, though many remained unpublished during her lifetime. Maintained a close relationship with brother Felix Mendelssohn, who supported her endeavors. Her music includes piano pieces, songs, and chamber works, with a notable focus on Lieder.
Continue Reading