James Dickey
American poet and novelist
A significant poet and novelist, contributions include the exploration of themes such as nature, war, and the South. Authored the celebrated novel 'Deliverance', which garnered attention for its portrayal of survival and human instinct. Served as the Poet Laureate of the United States from 1966 to 1968, reflecting a dedicated engagement with poetry and literature.
Authored 'Deliverance'
Served as U.S. Poet Laureate
Other People Born on February 2nd
Abraham Iyambo
Namibian politician and Minister
Born
February 2nd, 1961 64 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 52 years old
Served as a prominent Namibian politician involved in government and leadership roles. Held the position of Minister of Youth, National Service, Sport and Culture, contributing to policies supporting youth empowerment and cultural development. Played a significant role in the founding of the Namibian youth parliament, focusing on the engagement of young people in national governance.
Continue ReadingJudith Quiney
William Shakespeare's youngest daughter
Born
February 2nd, 1585 440 years ago
Died
1662 363 years ago — 77 years old
Born on February 2, 1585, Judith Quiney was the youngest child of playwright William Shakespeare and his wife Anne Hathaway. She married Thomas Quiney, a vintner, in 1616. The couple faced personal challenges, including the death of three of their children and a notable scandal regarding Thomas's alleged infidelity. Judith's life was interwoven with her father's legacy, living in Stratford-upon-Avon during a pivotal period in English literature. After her father's death in 1616, she became the owner of the Shakespeare family's estate.
Continue ReadingColumba of Rieti
Italian Dominican sister and mystic
Born
February 2nd, 1467 558 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1501 524 years ago — 34 years old
Born in Italy in 1467, a Dominican sister focused on a spiritual life marked by mysticism and religious devotion. Primarily associated with the convent of Santa Maria in Rieti, played a significant role in the spiritual lives of her community and visitors. Engaged in contemplative prayer and served as a spiritual advisor, guiding others in their faith. Died in 1501, leaving behind a legacy of religious commitment.
Continue ReadingPeter Martyr d'Anghiera
Historian and author of 'De Orbe Novo'
Born
February 2nd, 1457 568 years ago
Died
1526 499 years ago — 69 years old
An Italian-Spanish historian and author, contributed significantly to the understanding of the New World through detailed accounts of exploration. Authored 'De Orbe Novo', a key work detailing the discoveries in the Americas. Served as a royal historian to the Spanish Crown, providing documentation of exploration and colonization efforts during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. His writings offered important narratives about the encounters between Europeans and indigenous peoples, shaping perceptions of the New World.
Continue ReadingKim Zimmer
American actress and soap opera star
Born
February 2nd, 1955 70 years ago
This actress gained prominence through a lengthy career in television, particularly in soap operas. Most recognized for the role of Reva Shayne on the soap opera 'Guiding Light', which she portrayed for numerous years, earning accolades for her performance. She also appeared in other television series and films, contributing to her established presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingGottfried August Homilius
German organist and composer
Born
February 2nd, 1714 311 years ago
Died
1785 240 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1714, this figure contributed significantly to the early classical music scene as an organist and composer. His lineage traced back to the influential North German school, which shaped the development of organ music. Music education was pursued in Leipzig, where instrumental and vocal works flourished. Homilius served as an organist in various churches, most notably in the city of Dresden. Compositions included a range of sacred vocal works, especially cantatas, reflecting the stylistic transitions in music of the era. The musical legacy includes numerous choral pieces regularly performed in church settings, showcasing an integration of Lutheran hymnody and Baroque elements. Homilius passed away in 1785, leaving behind a repository of works still appreciated in liturgical contexts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 19th
Thomas Hart Benton
American painter and muralist
Born
April 15th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1975 50 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent American painter and muralist, this individual played a key role in the Regionalist art movement during the early 20th century. Training at the Chicago Art Institute and in Paris, this artist's works celebrated American life and culture through vivid colors and dynamic forms. Significant contributions included murals in various public buildings, and the artist also served as an educator, influencing a new generation of artists and educators. This individual’s artistic style reflected a fascination with the American landscape, history, and people.
Continue ReadingCarl Reichenbach
German chemist and philosopher
Born
February 12th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1869 156 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed to the fields of chemistry and philosophy, emphasizing the concept of odic force, which he proposed as a vital energy present in all living things. Developed theories on the properties of light and various organic compounds. Published works that explored the relationship between science and spirituality, influencing later esoteric movements. Engaged in extensive research on electromagnetic phenomena and its implications for understanding nature.
Continue ReadingSheila Sim
English actress in 'The Magic Box'
Born
June 5th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
An English actress appeared in numerous films and television productions during a career spanning several decades. Significant work includes the lead role in 'The Magic Box,' which earned critical acclaim. In addition to film, participation in stage productions added to the body of work. Sim also made various television appearances, contributing to series and one-off dramas. Later, served as a prominent figure in charitable endeavors, particularly in relation to the arts.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Niccolò Servandoni
Architect and Painter of Paris monuments
Born
May 2nd, 1695 330 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1766 259 years ago — 70 years old
An architect and painter who contributed significantly to the Baroque style in France and Italy. His work included the design of impressive structures and interiors, as well as multiple paintings that showcased his artistic talents. Notable works encompassed contributions to the Saint-Sulpice church in Paris and the decoration of the Hôtel de Ville. Additionally, served as a theater designer, creating sets for operatic productions. Renowned for integrating architectural design with painting, his innovative techniques influenced future generations of architects and artists.
Continue ReadingAntónio Luís de Seabra
Portuguese magistrate and politician
Born
December 2nd, 1798 227 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1895 130 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a prominent magistrate and politician in Portugal during the 19th century. Initially engaged in the judicial system, later transitioned to a political role, where contributions included involvement in legislative processes and governance. Held the title of Viscount of Seabra, a distinction awarded for public service and legal expertise. His career encapsulated a time of transition in Portuguese politics, navigating through legal reform and administrative challenges.
Continue ReadingHans Sachs
German poet and playwright
Born
November 5th, 1494 531 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1576 449 years ago — 81 years old
Active during the 16th century, produced a significant body of work including comedies, tragedies, and farces. Associated with the Meistersinger movement, focused on the performance of poetry and music in the context of guilds. Contributed to the development of the German dramatic tradition through original plays and adaptations of existing works. Emphasized themes of morality and social issues in writings, which reflected the cultural dynamics of the time.
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