Hugo Claus
Belgian author and playwright
An influential Belgian author, poet, and playwright, this figure contributed significantly to the Dutch literature scene. Renowned works include the novel 'The Sorrow of Belgium' and the play 'Dance of Death.' Claus's literary career was marked by a blend of themes reflecting Belgian society and personal experiences. The completion of a trilogy highlighted his prowess in dramatic literature. His poetry often explored existential themes, contributing to the richness of Flemish literature. Claus also worked as a screenwriter and directed several films, extending his creative reach.
Wrote 'The Sorrow of Belgium'
Authored the play 'Dance of Death'
Completed a trilogy of dramatic works
Other People Born on April 5th
Margravine Elisabeth Sophie of Brandenburg
Margravine of Brandenburg and patroness
Born
April 5th, 1674 351 years ago
Died
1748 278 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1674, a member of the House of Hohenzollern, held the title of Margravine of Brandenburg and exercised influence in cultural and religious matters. Played a significant role in the promotion of arts and sciences in the region. Known for the construction of the Schönhausen Palace and her contributions to the development of educational institutions. Her court became a center for intellectual discourse, attracting noted thinkers and artists.
Continue ReadingDave Swarbrick
Singer-songwriter and fiddler
Born
April 5th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in the British folk music scene, contributed significantly to the revival of traditional folk music during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated extensively with various artists, particularly in the band Fairport Convention. Became recognized for innovative fiddling techniques and the integration of folk elements into rock music. Released several solo albums and participated in numerous recordings with other musicians.
Continue ReadingLeo Stern
English cellist and conductor
Born
April 5th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1904 122 years ago — 42 years old
An English cellist, recognized for significant contributions to the classical music scene. Stern served as a principal cellist with various orchestras and had a prominent role in chamber music. He was involved with leading ensembles and symphonic works, showcasing his expertise in both performance and interpretation. His collaboration with esteemed composers and fellow musicians resulted in memorable performances throughout his career. Stern's work helped shape the appreciation of cello music in the early 20th century, influencing subsequent generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingMarshall Allman
Actor in 'The Walking Dead' series
Born
April 5th, 1984 41 years ago
Born in 1984, an American actor gained prominence for the role of Thomas in the television series 'The Walking Dead'. Allman also starred as the lead character in the series 'Prison Break' during its first season. His career includes appearances in various television shows and films, demonstrating versatility across different genres.
Continue ReadingAndrius Velička
Lithuanian footballer, Euro 2008 participant
Born
April 5th, 1979 46 years ago
A Lithuanian footballer played as a forward. Career spanned multiple clubs including FK Žalgiris and FC Stumbras. Participated in UEFA Euro 2008 with the national team, making significant contributions during the tournament. Had a notable club career, achieving success in domestic leagues and competing in European competitions. Played in various countries, including England and Poland, contributing to team successes. Retired from professional football, leaving a legacy in Lithuanian football.
Continue ReadingAl-Nuwayri
Egyptian Muslim historian and scholar
Born
April 5th, 1279 746 years ago
Died
1333 693 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent historian and scholar active during the 14th century in Egypt. Authored the comprehensive work 'Nihayat al-Arab fi Funun al-Adab', which encompasses various topics including history, geography, and literature. This encyclopedic writing synthesized knowledge of many earlier scholars and contributed significantly to the fields of historiography and Arabic literature. Al-Nuwayri's work captured a wealth of information on the cultural, political, and social aspects of his time, reflecting the rich intellectual tradition of the period.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 19th
Lawrence Walsh
Canadian-American lawyer and politician
Born
January 8th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 102 years old
A Canadian-American lawyer and politician, served as the 4th United States Deputy Attorney General. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan, held the position from 1981 to 1983. Played a significant role in the Iran-Contra investigation, overseeing the legal aspects of the proceedings. His efforts contributed to uncovering a major political scandal involving the Reagan administration's secret arms deals with Iran and the funding of Contra rebels in Nicaragua.
Continue ReadingHenry the Bearded
Polish duke and military leader
Born
1163 863 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1238 787 years ago — 75 years old
Held the title of Duke of Silesia and played a significant role in the political landscape of Poland during the 12th and early 13th centuries. Son of Bolesław I the Tall, worked to unify and strengthen the duchies in Silesia. Engaged in military campaigns against various opponents, including the Mongols. His reign saw attempts at consolidating power in a fragmented Polish state. Died in 1238, leaving a legacy of regional leadership.
Continue ReadingFred Phelps
American lawyer and founder of a church
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
A lawyer and pastor, founded the Westboro Baptist Church in 1955 in Topeka, Kansas. The church became widely recognized for its controversial protests and demonstrations against various social issues, particularly its anti-LGBTQ+ stance. Phelps led the church, promoting its ideologies and participating in numerous high-profile protests. The organization gained national attention through its picketing at military funerals, claiming it was a message from God about the nation's moral decline. Phelps remained a polarizing figure until his death in 2014.
Continue ReadingJoseph F. Weis
American lawyer and federal judge
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a federal judge for the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Appointed to the federal bench in 1978 by President Jimmy Carter. Prior to judicial service, practiced law and held positions in the U.S. Attorney's Office. Contributed to legal education by serving as an adjunct professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law.
Continue ReadingThomas Killigrew
English playwright and theatre manager
Born
February 7th, 1612 414 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1683 342 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in 17th-century English theatre, contributed significantly to the development of Restoration drama. Established one of the first London theatres after the English Civil War, the King's Company, which became a leading venue for plays. Wrote numerous plays, including comedies and tragedies, that reflected the tastes of the era. His works helped shape the landscape of English theatre during his time.
Continue ReadingPope Clement XI
Papacy during the War of Spanish Succession
Born
July 23rd, 1649 376 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1721 304 years ago — 71 years old
Served as pope from 1700 until death in 1721. Addressed various theological issues and papal authority while overseeing the church during significant European conflicts. Enhanced the Roman Catholic Church's role in European politics, particularly during the War of Spanish Succession. Promoted ecclesiastical reforms and supported missions in the Americas and Asia.
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