Henry Louis Gates Jr.
Historian and journalist with PBS specials
Born
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent historian and scholar, this figure has made significant contributions to African American studies and cultural criticism. Harvard University has served as a platform for teaching and research, emphasizing the importance of African American literature and history. A prolific writer, this person has published numerous books, including 'The Signifying Monkey' and 'Color Consciousness'. The PBS series 'Finding Your Roots' received broad acclaim for exploring genealogy and personal histories of notable figures, engaging a wide audience in discussions about race and identity.
Created the PBS series 'Finding Your Roots'
Published 'The Signifying Monkey'
Served as a professor at Harvard University
Other People Born on September 16th
Nathan Mayer Rothschild
Banker and financier involved in financing government debt
Born
September 16th, 1777 248 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1836 189 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent banker and financier, contributed to the establishment of the modern banking system in Europe. Played a key role in financing the British government during the Napoleonic Wars. Established the family's banking empire, which included operations in London and across Europe. Innovated financial instruments that helped manage public debt. Involved in the financing of various infrastructure projects, promoting economic growth.
Continue ReadingBreyten Breytenbach
Poet and painter with anti-apartheid works
Born
September 16th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2024 1 years ago — 85 years old
Born in South Africa, Breyten Breytenbach became a prominent poet and painter, known for his strong opposition to apartheid. His works often intertwine themes of personal and political struggle. He spent several years in prison for his anti-apartheid activism, reflecting the intersection of art and resistance in his life. Breytenbach later lived in France, which influenced his artistic vision and expression. In addition to poetry, he also created notable works of visual art, further establishing his legacy in both fields.
Continue ReadingJames Alan McPherson
Short story writer and essayist
Born
September 16th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2016 9 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1943, this American writer focused primarily on the African American experience. Deeply influenced by his upbringing in segregated Georgia, he explored themes of race, identity, and culture in his works. The essay collection titled 'Crabcakes' and the short story collection 'Elbow Room' received critical acclaim. The latter won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1978, marking a significant achievement in the literary community. The writer also contributed to various literary magazines and served as a teacher, sharing expertise with aspiring authors in academia.
Continue ReadingW. O. Bentley
Race car driver and automotive engineer
Born
September 16th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
An English race car driver and engineer founded Bentley Motors Limited in 1919, focusing on luxury vehicles. Bentley contributed to the design and performance of race cars in the early 20th century, establishing a reputation for engineering excellence. The brand achieved significant success in motorsport, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s, with notable victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Bentley's commitment to quality and performance became hallmarks of the brand, which remains prominent in the automotive industry today.
Continue ReadingElizabeth de Clare
English noblewoman, founding patron of Tewkesbury Abbey
Born
September 16th, 1295 730 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1360 665 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1295, this English noblewoman played a significant role in the political landscape of her time, particularly through her involvement in the management of estates and local governance. She was a patron of Tewkesbury Abbey, where art and architecture flourished under her sponsorship. Her lineage included significant connections to both the English crown and powerful aristocratic families, which influenced her standing in society. Through marriages and her family's estate, she contributed to local economy and governance. Elizabeth de Clare's legacy continued through her descendants, shaping the nobility of England.
Continue ReadingLaurence J. Peter
Author of the Peter Principle
Born
September 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1990 35 years ago — 70 years old
An author and educator, contributed significantly to the field of management. Developed the Peter Principle, a concept stating that individuals rise to their level of incompetence in organizational hierarchies. Authored several books, with the most notable being 'The Peter Principle: Why Things Go Wrong in Organizations'. Engaged in academic and public speaking, providing insights into the dynamics of workplace structures and management failures.
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