Horace Walpole

Historian and politician, author of 'The Castle of Otranto'

Horace Walpole - Historian and politician, author of 'The Castle of Otranto'
Born

September 24th, 1717
307 years ago

Died

March 2nd, 1797
228 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English historian and politician, contributed significantly to literature and political thought during the 18th century. Served as a member of the Parliament for several years, focusing on Whig policies. Gained recognition for literary works, particularly as the author of 'The Castle of Otranto', which is considered the first Gothic novel. Established Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham, which became a center for intellectual discourse and a showcase of Gothic Revival architecture.

Authored 'The Castle of Otranto'

Served as a Member of Parliament

Developed Strawberry Hill House

Other People Born on September 24th

Phil Hartman

Actor and screenwriter of Saturday Night Live
Born
September 24th, 1948 76 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 49 years old

Born in Canada and later moving to the United States, a notable actor and screenwriter gained recognition for contributions to the television landscape in the 1980s and 1990s. Key work included a significant tenure on 'Saturday Night Live', where multiple characters showcased versatility and comedic talent. An accomplished voice actor, also provided voices for several characters on 'The Simpsons'. Additionally, crafted screenplays that contributed to various successful projects, solidifying a reputation in both live-action and animated formats.

Continue Reading

Howard Florey

Pathologist and pharmacologist, Nobel Prize
Born
September 24th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1968 57 years ago — 69 years old

A pathologist and pharmacologist. Contributed significantly to the development and mass production of penicillin during World War II. Played a crucial role in the research and clinical trials that demonstrated the drug's efficacy against bacterial infections. Served as the Director of the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology at the University of Oxford, where further advancements in antibiotics were made. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 alongside two other scientists for contributions to the discovery of penicillin.

Continue Reading

Eavan Boland

Irish poet and academic championing women's voices
Born
September 24th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1944, Boland was an Irish poet and academic who contributed extensively to Irish literature. Her work often explored themes of womanhood, identity, and the complexities of Irish history. Boland's poetry was notable for its lyrical quality and poignant insights into the lives of women, often drawing on her own experiences. She served as a professor of English at Stanford University and was involved in various literary organizations throughout her career. Her collections include 'In a Time of Violence' and 'The Lost Tradition: A Dancing Life.' She also wrote essays and criticism that examined the role of women in poetry and the significance of personal voice in the literary canon.

Continue Reading

Bessie Braddock

British politician and social reformer
Born
September 24th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1970 54 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in British politics, served as a Member of Parliament from 1945 to 1970. Advocated for social justice and welfare reforms. Instrumental in efforts to improve conditions for women, children, and the working class. Played a significant role in labor rights legislation and was a vocal opponent of inequality.

Continue Reading

Ryan Briscoe

Australian race car driver, Indy 500 participant
Born
September 24th, 1981 43 years ago

A prominent race car driver, specialized in open-wheel racing. Competed in the IndyCar Series with various teams, including Chip Ganassi Racing and Team Penske. Achieved multiple race victories and secured a notable second-place finish at the prestigious Indianapolis 500. Participated in other international racing series, demonstrating versatility and skill in the motorsport arena.

Continue Reading

Ben Platt

Actor and singer in 'Dear Evan Hansen'
Born
September 24th, 1993 31 years ago

An American actor, singer, and songwriter, achieved prominence through a major role in the musical 'Dear Evan Hansen'. The performance in the title role earned a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2017. Additional recognition came through the portrayal of Benji in the 'Pitch Perfect' film series. Solo music career included the release of the album 'Sing to Me Instead' in 2019, showcasing songwriting and vocal ability.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 2nd

Cormac McAnallen

Irish footballer, all-Ireland winner
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2004 21 years ago — 24 years old

Played as a Gaelic footballer for Tyrone, contributing to the team's success in the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship. Debuted in 2001 and became a key player, noted for leadership and skill on the field. Represented the under-21 team before advancing to the senior squad, helping secure the 2003 All-Ireland title. Tragically passed away in 2004 at a young age, leaving a legacy within the sport.

Continue Reading

Norman St John-Stevas

English politician and academic leader
Born
May 18th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 82 years old

An English academic and politician served as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster from 1970 to 1974. St John-Stevas was a member of the Conservative Party and represented the Chelmsford constituency in the House of Commons from 1950 to 1974. In addition to his political career, held various academic roles, including being a professor. St John-Stevas was instrumental in promoting arts and education during his tenure in government and was involved in legislative reforms that affected the arts sector.

Continue Reading

Dusty Springfield

English singer and 'Son of a Preacher Man'
Born
April 16th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1999 26 years ago — 59 years old

An influential English singer, noted for a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Gained prominence in the 1960s, becoming one of the era's leading female vocalists. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'Son of a Preacher Man' and 'I Only Want to Be with You'. Springfield's career spanned several decades, during which she transitioned from pop to blue-eyed soul, amassing a dedicated fan base. Alongside a successful music career, she had a significant impact on the development of female artists in popular music. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, solidifying her legacy within the music industry.

Continue Reading

Ulric Dahlgren

American Colonel and Civil War officer
Born
April 3rd, 1842 183 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1864 161 years ago — 21 years old

Served as a colonel in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Led troops in various significant campaigns and was involved in operations in Virginia and Pennsylvania. Died in combat during a cavalry raid. His strategies and boldness were notable during key battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg. Posthumously remembered for his contributions and leadership.

Continue Reading

Anita Morris

American actress and dancer, Tony nominee
Born
March 14th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1994 31 years ago — 50 years old

An actress and dancer gained recognition for work in theater and television during the 1980s. Starred in the Broadway production of 'Sugar Babies' and earned a Tony Award nomination for performance. Appeared in television series such as 'One Life to Live' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Contributed to the entertainment industry with talents in singing and dancing, creating memorable performances that resonated with audiences.

Continue Reading

Serge Gainsbourg

French singer-songwriter and actor
Born
April 2nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1991 34 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure in French music, worked as a singer-songwriter and actor, blending musical genres such as chanson, jazz, and pop. Gained recognition for provocative lyrics and innovative compositions. Directed a few films that featured his artistic vision. His style influenced many artists, and his contributions to music continue to resonate.

Continue Reading