Jackie Curtis
American actress and playwright
An actress and playwright, contributed significantly to the underground theater scene in New York City during the 1960s and 1970s. Associated with the Andy Warhol circle, created innovative performances that combined elements of drag and avant-garde art. Influenced the later development of punk and gender performance art. Artistic works are characterized by their bold exploration of identity and social commentary.
Co-wrote and starred in 'Glamour, Glory and Gold'
Featured in Andy Warhol's film 'Chelsea Girls'
Other People Born on February 19th
David Garrick
English actor and influential playwright
Born
February 19th, 1717 308 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1779 247 years ago — 61 years old
An influential actor, playwright, and producer in the 18th century, contributed extensively to the English theatre. Garrick became the manager of Drury Lane Theatre and significantly shaped the world of acting. His interpretations of Shakespeare's works attracted audiences and drew admiration from contemporaries. He frequently performed in classic plays, bringing a new vigor to theatrical performances, and his innovations in stagecraft set standards for future productions. Garrick's ability to blend tragedy and comedy brought complex emotional depth to roles, which was reflected in his performances.
Continue ReadingShawn Matthias
Ice hockey player, 2015 Stanley Cup Finalist
Born
February 19th, 1988 37 years ago
Ice hockey player played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL). Started professional career in 2006 with the Florida Panthers. Played significant roles with teams including the Vancouver Canucks and Toronto Maple Leafs. Experienced playoff action, reaching the Stanley Cup Final with the Canucks in 2015. Known for contributions to team play and versatility on the ice.
Continue ReadingFalco
Austrian singer-songwriter and musician
Born
February 19th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1998 28 years ago — 40 years old
This artist achieved international fame in the 1980s with a unique blend of pop, rock, and rap. The debut album, 'Einzelhaft' released in 1982, featured the hit single 'Rock Me Amadeus,' which topped charts in multiple countries. The music style included elements of new wave, and the use of German lyrics set this artist apart from many contemporaries. A skilled lyricist and performer, this individual captivated audiences with energetic performances and a distinctive persona. The second album, 'Falco 3,' continued the success with hits such as 'Vienna Calling.' The artist's career was marked by both commercial success and critical acclaim, leading to a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Continue ReadingNishinoumi Kajirō I
Japanese sumo wrestler, 16th Yokozuna
Born
February 19th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1908 117 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1855, this individual became a prominent sumo wrestler, achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in the sport. Rising to fame during the late Edo period, the wrestler competed fiercely and displayed significant skill on the dohyo. The sumo career spanned several years, during which victories and accolades solidified a legacy in Japanese wrestling history. Retiring from active competition, the wrestler remained involved in the sport as a coach, influencing the next generation of athletes. The contributions to sumo wrestling have been recognized through various means, highlighting the achievements in a competitive environment.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Hoffmann
Physician and chemist, German healthcare pioneer
Born
February 19th, 1660 365 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1742 283 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in medicine and chemistry during the 17th century, contributed significantly to the understanding of human anatomy and diseases. Authored notable works, including a comprehensive textbook on medicine that gained widespread acclaim and served as a reference for future generations. Advocated for the integration of chemical principles into medical practices, laying groundwork for future advancements in medical chemistry. Engaged in extensive research on various ailments, offering insights that influenced contemporary therapeutic approaches.
Continue ReadingConstantin Brâncuși
Sculptor known for modernist works
Born
February 19th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1957 68 years ago — 81 years old
A Romanian-French sculptor, painter, and photographer, this artist revolutionized modern sculpture with a focus on simplification and abstraction. Many works reflect the search for essence and form. The work 'The Kiss' exemplifies this approach, blending naturalism and abstraction. Another significant piece, 'Bird in Space,' challenged conventional notions of sculpture and contributed to the evolution of artistic expression. Throughout the career, contributions to modern art transcended traditional boundaries. In addition to sculpting, also engaged in painting and photography.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 15th
John Hale
American minister and author
Born
June 3rd, 1636 389 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1700 325 years ago — 63 years old
A minister and writer, played a significant role in the Salem witch trials. Served as a pastor in Beverly, Massachusetts, and became an influential voice against the witch hunt. Authored works that reflected religious and social issues of the time, including 'A Modest Inquiry into the Nature of Witchcraft'. His later writings expressed remorse for his participation in the trials, advocating for justice and reason.
Continue ReadingAustin Osman Spare
Artist and occultist, created sigils
Born
December 30th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1956 69 years ago — 69 years old
An influential English artist and occultist associated with the early 20th century. Specialized in the development of a distinctive style characterized by visionary art and a focus on the subconscious. Created a system of magic involving sigils, which gained popularity in various esoteric circles. Worked on illustrating texts on occult practices and developed his own unique approach to drawing and painting that combined elements of surrealism and symbolism. Published several works discussing his theories on art and magic, contributing significantly to the understanding of the interplay between creativity and the occult.
Continue ReadingCarlos Fuentes
Mexican novelist and essayist
Born
November 11th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 83 years old
This individual was a prominent Mexican novelist and essayist who gained international recognition for contributions to literature. Works include acclaimed novels such as 'The Death of Artemio Cruz', which explored themes of power and identity in Mexico, and 'Aura', a narrative celebrated for its innovative storytelling. Throughout a prolific writing career spanning several decades, this author also engaged in political and cultural discussions through essays and journalism. As a diplomat, contributed to Mexico’s representation abroad and fostered relationships through literary initiatives. Received numerous awards including the Miguel de Cervantes Prize.
Continue ReadingGaro Yepremian
American football kicker, Super Bowl champion
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent football kicker, started a career in the NFL with the Detroit Lions before achieving notable success with the Miami Dolphins. Played a vital role during the Dolphins' perfect season in 1972. Contributed to the team's victory in Super Bowl VII. Transitioned to coaching and remained involved in football after retirement.
Continue ReadingKazimir Malevich
Painter and art theoretician, Suprematism
Born
February 23rd, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1935 90 years ago — 57 years old
A pioneering Ukrainian painter and art theoretician, contributed significantly to the development of abstract art. Founded the art movement known as Suprematism, emphasizing geometric forms and a limited color palette. Developed the influential work 'Black Square' in 1915, which symbolized a break from traditional representation in art. Engaged in teaching and wrote extensively on art theory, influencing successive generations of artists.
Continue ReadingWilliam March
Soldier and author of 'Company K'
Born
September 18th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1954 71 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1893, this individual served in the United States Army during World War I. After the war, he authored the novel 'Company K', which provided a realistic portrayal of infantry life and the psychological impacts of combat. The novel became significant in American literature for its candid depiction of soldiers' experiences during the Great War. Through his writing, this individual highlighted the personal struggles of soldiers and the harsh realities of war, influencing future literature on military subjects.
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