James Boswell

Scottish biographer of Samuel Johnson

James Boswell - Scottish biographer of Samuel Johnson
Born

October 29th, 1740
284 years ago

Died

May 19th, 1795
229 years ago — 54 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Scotland

Links & References

A prominent Scottish biographer and diarist, played a pivotal role in literary history with the creation of the biography of Samuel Johnson. This work, titled 'The Life of Mr. Johnson', provided profound insights into Johnson's life and thoughts. Boswell's meticulous documentation of Johnson's conversations and experiences contributed to the development of the biographical genre. His writings also included detailed accounts of his own travels and experiences, reflecting the social and cultural context of the 18th century. The biographer established a significant legacy through his thorough reporting and narrative style.

Authored 'The Life of Mr. Johnson'

Detailed accounts of 18th century travels

Other People Born on October 29th

Evan Fournier

French basketball player, Olympian
Born
October 29th, 1992 32 years ago

A professional basketball player, participated in multiple seasons of the NBA primarily with the Orlando Magic. Represented France in international competitions, contributing to the national team's success. Achieved a significant milestone by winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Played a key role in both scoring and assisting, showcasing skills as a shooting guard/small forward.

Continue Reading

Paul Orndorff

Professional wrestler and football player
Born
October 29th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 72 years old

Played college football at the University of Tampa. Transitioned to professional wrestling, debuting in the 1970s. Gained fame in the 1980s, becoming a prominent figure in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Engaged in a legendary feud with Hulk Hogan, culminating in a main event match at WrestleMania I. Compiled a successful career in wrestling with multiple accolades, known for athleticism and charisma. Retired in the late 1990s due to injuries but remained a beloved figure in the wrestling community until passing.

Continue Reading

Zoot Sims

Saxophonist and jazz composer
Born
October 29th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 60 years old

Zoot Sims was an American jazz saxophonist and composer, recognized for contributions to the jazz genre. Active from the 1940s until the 1990s, Sims played both tenor and soprano saxophones, developing a unique sound that blended swing and bebop influences. Collaborated with various artists and big bands, including the Woody Herman Band and the Buddy Rich Orchestra. Sims recorded numerous albums as a bandleader and sideman, showcasing original compositions and standards. His work in clubs and festivals solidified his reputation in the jazz community. Throughout a prolific career, Sims performed at prestigious venues and contributed to the vibrant jazz scene.

Continue Reading

Mike Gartner

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
October 29th, 1959 65 years ago

A professional ice hockey player and coach, contributed significantly to the NHL. Played for teams including the Washington Capitals, New York Rangers, and Toronto Maple Leafs. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001. Also served as a coach in various capacities, sharing expertise in player development and team strategy.

Continue Reading

Ender Inciarte

Baseball player for Atlanta Braves
Born
October 29th, 1990 34 years ago

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Made his MLB debut in 2015 with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Achieved notable success while playing for the Atlanta Braves, contributing to the team's performance in both the regular season and playoffs. Recognized for defensive skills and speed on the bases, which helped the Braves secure victories during multiple seasons.

Continue Reading

Colin Miller

Ice hockey defenseman and NHL player
Born
October 29th, 1992 32 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player, competed in the NHL primarily as a defenseman. Drafted in 2012 by the Los Angeles Kings, began professional career in the AHL before making NHL debut. Played for teams including the Boston Bruins, Vegas Golden Knights, and Buffalo Sabres. Featured in prominent game moments and contributed to team defensive strategies.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 19th

Emperor Go-Kashiwabara of Japan

Emperor during the Muromachi period
Born
1464 561 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1526 498 years ago — 62 years old

Reigned from 1500 to 1526 as the 101st emperor of Japan. His reign took place during the Muromachi period, a time of political intrigue and shifting power dynamics among the samurai class. Despite the challenges faced during this period, the imperial court continued traditional practices and rituals. His reign is noted for the struggle for power between the Ashikaga shogunate and various regional daimyōs. He presided over the imperial ceremonies and maintained the cultural legacy of the court even amidst the tumultuous political landscape, albeit with limited political power.

Continue Reading

Claude Henri de Rouvroy

Economist and philosopher, Saint-Simon
Born
October 17th, 1760 264 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1825 199 years ago — 64 years old

Born in France, one of the prominent figures in early socialism. Developed theories on industrial society and the role of the industrial class in social progress. Advocated for a new social order that emphasized the importance of productive work and the coordination of industry. Founded the Saint-Simonian movement, which influenced socialist thought and later socialist movements across Europe. Writings included 'The New Christianity' and 'The Industrial System', which emphasized scientific and industrial development as key to societal advancement.

Continue Reading

Nawshirwan Mustafa

General coordinator of Movement for Change
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2017 7 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the general coordinator of the Movement for Change (Gorran) in Iraq. Focused on promoting democracy and political reforms within the Kurdish region. Engaged in various political movements and was a significant figure in the Kurdish opposition. Contributed to efforts aimed at improving governance and addressing corruption in local politics. Involved in the formation of the Gorran party in 2009, which played a crucial role in challenging traditional political structures in Kurdistan.

Continue Reading

John Simpson Kirkpatrick

Soldier known for donkey service at Gallipoli
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1915 109 years ago — 23 years old

Served as a stretcher bearer during World War I. Utilized a donkey to transport wounded soldiers on the battlefield at Gallipoli. Displayed exceptional bravery and dedication under fire while rescuing injured troops. Tragically died in action on May 19, 1915, earning posthumous recognition for heroism.

Continue Reading

Guillaume Groen van Prinsterer

Dutch historian and politician
Born
August 21st, 1801 223 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1876 148 years ago — 74 years old

A significant figure in Dutch history, contributed to both politics and historical scholarship. Played a crucial role in the foundation of the Anti-Revolutionary Party in the Netherlands. Authored influential works that highlighted the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary social and political issues. Engaged actively in debates on the role of religion in society, advocating for a Christian perspective in politics.

Continue Reading

Clint Smith

Canadian ice hockey player and coach
Born
1913 112 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2009 15 years ago — 96 years old

A Canadian ice hockey player and coach, contributed significantly to the sport in various capacities. Played for the Montreal Canadiens, winning the Stanley Cup in 1965. Later transitioned to coaching, leading teams at both the collegiate and junior levels. Established a reputation for developing young talent and fostering teamwork within the sport.

Continue Reading