Jane Austen
English novelist, Pride and Prejudice
An English novelist, this individual produced six major novels that critique the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Works include 'Pride and Prejudice', 'Sense and Sensibility', and 'Emma', which explore themes of love, marriage, and social standing. While some works were published anonymously during the writer's lifetime, they gained significant recognition posthumously. The novels are celebrated for their keen observations of social manners and relationships.
Wrote 'Pride and Prejudice'
Wrote 'Sense and Sensibility'
Wrote 'Emma'
Other People Born on December 16th
George Santayana
Philosopher and poet with major works
Born
December 16th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1952 73 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Spain, an influential philosopher, novelist, and poet. Contributed significantly to aesthetics and philosophy, emphasizing the importance of experience in human existence. Wrote several important works, including 'The Life of Reason' and 'Scepticism and Animal Faith'. Also authored poetry that explored existential themes, often reflecting on the nature of truth and beauty. Spent much of his later life in the United States, where he continued to develop his philosophical ideas and engage in intellectual discourse.
Continue ReadingBen Cross
English actor in 'Chariots of Fire'
Born
December 16th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2020 5 years ago — 72 years old
An English actor gained fame for his role as Harold Abrahams in the film 'Chariots of Fire' released in 1981. This film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Cross also appeared in various television series, including 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine' and 'The Unholy'. In addition to film and television, he acted in theater productions, showcasing his range as a performer. His talent and dedication to the craft have been recognized in numerous productions.
Continue ReadingGareth Williams
Scottish footballer, played for Leicester City
Born
December 16th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
September 20th, 2003 22 years ago — 21 years old
A Scottish footballer played as a midfielder. Started his career at Leicester City, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Later played for several clubs, gaining experience in different leagues. Had a stint in the Scottish league as well, showcasing skills on the field. Retired from professional football after several years in the sport.
Continue ReadingAntonio Vega
Spanish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
December 16th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2009 16 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent figure in Spanish music, this artist emerged in the 1980s as a key member of the band Nash, contributing significantly to the Spanish rock scene. Later, he launched a solo career that highlighted personal and introspective songwriting. His debut solo album, 'No Existen Técnicas para Olvidar,' showcased a blend of pop and rock layers. The artist's poetic lyrics often tackled themes of love and loss, resonating deeply with audiences. Collaborations with various musicians and participation in musical events further established a lasting legacy in the genre. Despite personal struggles, this musician continued to produce heartfelt music until his passing in 2009.
Continue ReadingRoy Schuiten
Cyclist and team manager
Born
December 16th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2006 19 years ago — 55 years old
Began competitive cycling in the 1970s, gaining prominence in the professional peloton. Achieved significant success in the 1977 Tour de France, finishing third overall. Later transitioned to managing cycling teams, contributing to the development of young cyclists and strategic team operations. Continued to influence the cycling world through managerial roles and mentorship.
Continue ReadingEmperor Manuel III of Trebizond
Byzantine Emperor, last ruler of Trebizond
Born
December 16th, 1364 661 years ago
Died
1417 609 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the last Emperor of Trebizond from 1390 until 1426. Oversaw a significant period of decline for the empire due to external pressures from the Ottoman Turks and internal disputes. During the reign, economic difficulties and territorial losses were prominent issues. Engaged in diplomatic efforts with various European states in an attempt to bolster the crumbling empire. The reign ended with the conquest of Trebizond by the Ottomans, which marked the end of the Byzantine Empire.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 18th
Zhu Wen
Chinese emperor of Later Liang
Born
December 5th, 852 1173 years ago
Died
July 18th, 912 1113 years ago — 59 years old
Ascended to the throne in 907, establishing the Later Liang dynasty after the fall of the Tang dynasty. Reigned until death in 912, implementing policies to stabilize the empire and improve administration. His rise marked the beginning of the Five Dynasties period in China, a time of fragmentation and political turmoil.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Javier Arana
Guatemalan Army Colonel and head of state
Born
December 5th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1949 76 years ago — 43 years old
Served as an Army colonel during a critical period in Guatemalan history. Briefly held the position of head of state in 1944 following a military coup. Focused on consolidating power and maintaining control during a tumultuous political era. His regime faced various challenges including internal dissent and opposition from reformist movements.
Continue ReadingLydia Becker
English-French women's rights activist
Born
February 24th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1890 135 years ago — 63 years old
Born in England in 1827, the individual became a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement. An advocate for women's rights, the individual founded the Manchester National Society for Women's Suffrage in 1867. Engaged in writing, efforts included contributions to various periodicals to promote women's enfranchisement. In 1872, undertook a notable petition that amassed thousands of signatures to support women's voting rights. The advocacy work extended beyond local efforts to national discussions about women's suffrage.
Continue ReadingBenito Juárez
Mexican lawyer and political leader
Born
March 21st, 1806 219 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1872 153 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent lawyer and statesman, served as the 25th President of Mexico. Led the country during a turbulent period marked by conflict and reform. Championed liberal reforms aimed at modernizing Mexico, including land redistribution and separation of church and state. Helped shape a more democratic government and strengthen the rule of law. Advocated for education and civil liberties, pushing forward policies that aligned with secular government principles.
Continue ReadingPieter Langendijk
Dutch playwright and poet
Born
July 25th, 1683 342 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1756 269 years ago — 72 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a prominent playwright and poet emerged in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The body of work included numerous plays characterized by critical observation of societal manners and morals. Most notable works encompassed comedies that reflected contemporary life and human relationships, with particular acclaim for 'De Statenvergadering' and 'De Gekrookte Aap'. Contributed significantly to the development of Dutch theatre during this period.
Continue ReadingRoman Jakobson
Linguist and Language Theorist
Born
October 11th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1982 43 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent linguist and theorist, significant contributions to structuralism in linguistics occurred. Developed the concept of markedness and made advancements in phonology. The work included influential essays on language and communication, which shaped modern linguistics. Addressed both linguistic theory and literary analysis, creating a bridge between the two disciplines. Involvement in the Prague School of Linguistics also marked a pivotal moment in linguistic thought, establishing key relationships between language and culture.
Continue Reading