Irving Layton

Canadian poet and university professor

Irving Layton - Canadian poet and university professor
Born

March 12th, 1912
113 years ago

Died

January 4th, 2006
19 years ago — 93 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Canada

Links & References

Born in Romania and later emigrating to Canada, contributed significantly to Canadian poetry. Layton's work often addressed themes of love, existentialism, and social justice. He became a prominent figure in Canadian literature, emphasizing free verse and personal expression. Layton held a faculty position at numerous Canadian universities, influencing generations of writers. His poetry collections include 'The Cold Green Element' and 'A Red Carpet for the Sun'. Layton received accolades including the Governor General's Award for Poetry.

Published acclaimed poetry collections

Received the Governor General's Award

Other People Born on March 12th

Wally Schirra

Astronaut and Apollo 7 commander
Born
March 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2007 17 years ago — 84 years old

A captain, pilot, and astronaut, this individual became a prominent figure in the early years of human spaceflight. Selected as one of the original seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury, he flew on Mercury-Atlas 8, performing six orbits of Earth in 1962. Later, he commanded the Apollo 7 mission in 1968, the first manned flight of the Apollo program, which tested crucial systems for future lunar missions. Throughout a distinguished career with NASA, he also contributed to the Gemini program and helped develop space shuttle technology.

Continue Reading

Andrew Young

American Ambassador to the UN
Born
March 12th, 1932 93 years ago

Served as the 14th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 1977 to 1979. Held the position of Mayor of Atlanta from 1982 to 1990. Worked as a civil rights leader, participating in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Advocated for social justice and economic development in urban areas.

Continue Reading

Tobias Schweinsteiger

Footballer with World Cup trophy
Born
March 12th, 1982 43 years ago

Born in 1982, a professional footballer played as a midfielder. Represented Germany in international competitions, including the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup. Achieved prominence with Bayern Munich, contributing to multiple Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy. Transitioned to Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer later in career. Retired from international football in 2016.

Continue Reading

Jan-Erik Enestam

Finnish-Swedish politician and minister
Born
March 12th, 1947 78 years ago

Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament from 1991 to 2003. Held the position of Minister of Transport and Communications from 2000 to 2003, focusing on improving Finland's transportation infrastructure. Participated actively in the development of policies regarding telecommunications and digital services. Engaged in various initiatives promoting the Finnish-Swedish cultural relationship.

Continue Reading

Michał Heller

Polish professor of philosophy
Born
March 12th, 1936 89 years ago

A prominent philosopher and cosmologist who contributed to the philosophy of science. Focused on the interplay between philosophy and physics, exploring topics such as cosmology and the implications of contemporary scientific theories. Served as a professor at the Jesuit University of Philosophy and Education in Kraków. Authored numerous books addressing metaphysical questions and the conceptual foundations of modern science.

Continue Reading

Gustavo Rojas Pinilla

Colombian President and Army General
Born
March 12th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 75 years old

Elected as the 19th President of Colombia, Rojas Pinilla served from 1953 to 1957, leading the country during a period of military rule. Prior to his presidency, Rojas Pinilla had a distinguished military career, culminating in the rank of general. His regime was marked by attempts to modernize Colombia, including infrastructure projects and social reforms. The presidency ended in 1957 when a general strike and political unrest led to his resignation. Following his departure from politics, he returned to the military and later founded a political movement.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 4th

Art Acord

American actor and stuntman in westerns
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1931 94 years ago — 41 years old

An American actor and stuntman recognized for contributions to the Western genre in early cinema. Starred in numerous silent films during the 1920s, becoming a prominent figure within the industry. Established a successful career with performances that showcased exceptional horsemanship and physical prowess. Transitioned from acting to directing and producing, influencing the production of western films. His work helped shape the cowboy archetype in American cinema.

Continue Reading

Xavier Chamorro Cardenal

Nicaraguan journalist and editor
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent Nicaraguan journalist, played a critical role in shaping the media landscape. Served as the editor of the newspaper La Prensa, one of the most significant publications in Nicaragua. Faced persecution during the Sandinista government due to editorial stances and coverage of political events. Advocated for freedom of the press and democratic values in the country. His career was marked by a commitment to independent journalism and protecting journalistic integrity.

Continue Reading

Nicholas Eymerich

Catalan theologian and inquisitor
Died
January 4th, 1399 626 years ago — None years old

A Catalan theologian and inquisitor, Eymerich played a significant role in the Catalan Inquisition during the late 14th century. He is noted for his efforts in combating heresy and for his detailed writings on theological topics. His most prominent work, the 'Directorium Inquisitorum', served as a manual for inquisitors, outlining procedures for trials and methods for identifying heretics. Eymerich's work influenced later inquisitorial procedures and contributed significantly to the ecclesiastical framework of the time.

Continue Reading

Robert Heilbroner

Economist, author of 'The Worldly Philosophers'
Born
March 24th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

An American economist and historian, contributed to the understanding of economic theory and practice. Writers included works such as 'The Worldly Philosophers' which explored the lives and ideas of major economists throughout history. Focused on the evolution of thought in economics and the social implications of economic policies. Engaged in teaching and lecturing, influencing students and readers with insights on the economy and its historical context.

Continue Reading

Tanya Roberts

Actress recognized for 'That '70s Show'
Born
October 15th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2021 4 years ago — 65 years old

An American actress had a prominent career in television and film. Made an early appearance in the 1975 film 'The Yum Yum Girls' before achieving major recognition for the role of Midge Pinciotti on the sitcom 'That '70s Show' from 1998 to 2006. Gained further fame as Stacey Sutton in the James Bond film 'A View to a Kill' in 1985. Participated in various theater productions and also worked as a model during her early career. Appeared in numerous television shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s, showcasing her talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Continue Reading

John Toland

American historian and author of WWII works
Born
June 29th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2004 21 years ago — 91 years old

Significant contributions to historical literature included works focusing on World War II. Authored acclaimed books, providing detailed accounts and analyses of events and figures. Gained recognition for thorough research and engaging narrative style. Awards included the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography.

Continue Reading