Italo Calvino
Italian novelist and short story writer
An influential Italian novelist, short story writer, and journalist, the individual contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Works often blend fantasy and realism, exploring themes of identity, existence, and narrative structure. Important literary contributions include works such as 'Invisible Cities', 'If on a winter's night a traveler', and 'The Baron in the Trees'. The writing style reflects a unique approach to storytelling, characterized by playful language and complex ideas. The individual was also active in journalism and literary criticism, influencing subsequent generations of writers.
Wrote 'Invisible Cities'
Authored 'If on a winter's night a traveler'
Published 'The Baron in the Trees'
Other People Born on October 15th
Carol II of Romania
King of Romania and regent.
Born
October 15th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1953 72 years ago — 59 years old
Reigned as King of Romania from 1930 until abdication in 1940 and returned briefly in 1944. Initiated the royal dictatorship in Romania, centralizing power and dismissing democratic institutions. Priorities included modernizing the military and establishing social welfare programs. Faced significant opposition from political parties and the rise of fascism in Romania. Abdicated in favor of his son, becoming a controversial figure in Romanian history. Lived in exile after his abdication, returning briefly to Romania after World War II before dying in exile.
Continue ReadingDick McTaggart
Scottish boxer and Olympic medalist
Born
October 15th, 1935 90 years ago
Born in Scotland, a notable boxer competed in amateur boxing. Achieved significant success in the lightweight division. Won a gold medal at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Also secured a bronze medal at the 1958 European Amateur Championships. Had a successful career in the sport with various championships and accolades.
Continue ReadingMickey Baker
Guitarist and co-founder of The Shirelles
Born
October 15th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 87 years old
A guitarist, contributed significantly to the development of rock and roll and rhythm and blues music. Co-founded the duo Mickey & Sylvia, which achieved success with the hit song 'Love Is Strange'. Played with various artists, enhancing their sound and leaving a lasting influence on the music industry. Immigrated to France later in life, where continued to perform and record, bridging American styles with European music scenes.
Continue ReadingAntonio Fontán
Spanish journalist and academic
Born
October 15th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2010 16 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to journalism and academia in Spain. Served as the director of the newspaper ABC during a crucial period in Spanish history. Influenced public opinion and political discourse through journalism. Held the position of Professor of Journalism at the Complutense University of Madrid, where nurtured future generations of journalists. Participated actively in the cultural and intellectual life of Spain during transitions in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingJohn Robertson
Politician, 5th Premier of New South Wales
Born
October 15th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1891 134 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 5th Premier of New South Wales, holding office from 1860 to 1861 and again from 1868 to 1870. Known for leading the colony during a time of economic growth. Contributed to the establishment of democratic reforms in the region. Engaged in significant education and land reforms that affected the populace.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Lüth
German naval commander during WWII
Born
October 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1945 80 years ago — 31 years old
Served in the Kriegsmarine during World War II. Achieved the rank of Korvettenkapitän and commanded several U-boats. Participated in the Battle of the Atlantic, conducting multiple successful patrols against Allied shipping. Recognized for leadership and tactical skills in submarine warfare.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 19th
Masajuro Shiokawa
Japanese economist and politician, 63rd Finance Minister
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
An economist and politician served as the 63rd Japanese Minister of Finance. Played a significant role in the management of Japan's economic policy during a critical period in the early 21st century. Implemented policies aimed at fiscal consolidation and economic recovery. Was an influential figure in various economic discussions within the government and shaped fiscal policies at a national level.
Continue ReadingArthur Mitchell
Ballet dancer & choreographer of Porgy
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2018 7 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent ballet dancer and choreographer, made significant contributions to ballet in America. Co-founded Dance Theatre of Harlem, which was the first professional ballet company of African Americans. Served as a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, showcasing works by George Balanchine. Created choreography that celebrated African American culture and performed leading roles in ballets including 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' and 'Porgy and Bess.' Received numerous accolades for artistic achievements and dedication to diversity in ballet. These efforts solidified a lasting legacy in the dance world.
Continue ReadingZinaida Serebriakova
Ukrainian-French painter, 'Self-Portrait'
Born
1884 142 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1967 58 years ago — 83 years old
One of the first female painters of the 20th century, a significant figure in the art scene in Ukraine and France. Studied at the Imperial Academy of Arts in Saint Petersburg. Works showcased a blend of realism and symbolism, especially in portraits and landscapes. Achieved recognition after the 1910 exhibition in Paris, gaining acclaim in Europe. Spent years in various countries due to political upheaval, continuing to paint and exhibiting widely, including at the Salon d'Automne and Salon des Indépendants in Paris.
Continue ReadingRobert Casadesus
French pianist and composer
Born
April 7th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1972 53 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, this individual excelled in classical music, particularly in the works of French composers. His performances gained acclaim for their technical precision and lyrical beauty. This individual collaborated with many orchestras and renowned conductors throughout his career. He also composed several works that contribute to the piano repertoire, gaining recognition as both a performer and a composer. A significant presence in concert halls, this individual left a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.
Continue ReadingDinky Soliman
Politician, Secretary of Social Welfare
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 68 years old
Served as the 23rd Secretary of Social Welfare and Development in the Philippines. Held the position from 2010 to 2016 under President Benigno Aquino III, overseeing various social programs aimed at poverty alleviation and disaster response. Played a key role in the implementation of the Conditional Cash Transfer program, which provided financial assistance to low-income families. Engaged in numerous initiatives to promote social justice and welfare.
Continue ReadingJackie Collins
Author of romance novels and screenwriter
Born
October 4th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
An English-American author gained prominence for writing romantic novels that often explored the lives of glamorous characters. Collins published over 30 novels, many of which became bestsellers, with works such as 'Hollywood Wives' and 'Lucky'. In addition to writing, she had a brief career in acting and worked on screenplays, showcasing her multifaceted involvement in the entertainment industry. Several of her novels were adapted into television miniseries, further extending their reach and popularity. Her storytelling style combined elements of drama, romance, and intrigue, appealing to a wide audience and establishing a loyal readership over decades.
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