Janet Frame
New Zealand author and poet
An acclaimed author and poet, her literary career spanned several decades, beginning in the 1950s. Frame published multiple novels, short stories, and poetry collections. The autobiographical works detail experiences in mental health institutions. The novel 'Owls Do Cry' gained recognition, showcasing her unique narrative style. Frame's writing often explored themes of identity and social issues, receiving critical acclaim in New Zealand and abroad.
Published 'Owls Do Cry' in 1957
Authored the 'Arrivals and Departures' trilogy
Received the prestigious Katherine Mansfield Menton Fellowship
Other People Born on August 28th
Shuja Khanzada
Pakistani politician and military officer
Born
August 28th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
A colonel in the Pakistan Army, dedicated service in various military capacities occurred throughout a notable career. Transitioning from military to politics, held a position as a member of the Provincial Assembly in Punjab. Served as the provincial minister for law and parliamentary affairs. His political career was marked by a strong focus on governance and law enforcement within his constituency.
Continue ReadingJoseph Luns
Dutch Foreign Minister and NATO leader
Born
August 28th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Netherlands from 1952 to 1971. Held significant influence in shaping Dutch foreign policy during the Cold War. Also served as Secretary General of NATO from 1971 to 1984, contributing to discussions on defense strategies and alliances among member countries. Luns’ leadership during turbulent global times established critical relationships and alliances in Europe.
Continue ReadingRobert Irving
Conductor and director of opera
Born
August 28th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1991 34 years ago — 78 years old
Born in England, a significant figure in the world of classical music, primarily in the realm of opera. Established a reputation through work with renowned opera companies. Directed productions of standard operatic repertoire, showing expertise in interpretation and performance. Contributed to the education and development of young musicians and singers.
Continue ReadingFlorence Welch
Singer-songwriter and band leader
Born
August 28th, 1986 39 years ago
Welch is a British singer-songwriter and the lead vocalist of the band Florence + the Machine. The group achieved significant commercial success with their debut album, 'Lungs,' released in 2009, which topped the charts in multiple countries and won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist. The band's blend of baroque pop, soul, and indie rock garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, leading to global tours and performances at major music festivals.
Continue ReadingWayne Osmond
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
August 28th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2025 0 years ago — 73 years old
An American singer-songwriter and actor, contributed significantly to the music industry as a member of the Osmonds family group. Gained popularity in the 1970s through performances on television shows and concerts. Transitioned into acting, participating in various productions. Developed a successful solo career during the late 20th century, producing several albums and singles.
Continue ReadingAnthony Ulrich
Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg
Born
August 28th, 1714 311 years ago
Died
1774 251 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1714, a member of the House of Welf, held the title of Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg. Involved in regional politics in Germany, participated in the governance and administration of the duchy. His leadership spanned critical periods, influencing local policies and alliances during his reign. Contributed to the cultural and economic development of the region through patronage and support of local institutions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 29th
B. H. Liddell Hart
Military strategist and historian
Born
October 31st, 1895 130 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1970 55 years ago — 74 years old
An officer in the British Army and a military historian, the individual contributed significantly to military strategy and theory. The work focused on indirect approaches to warfare and the questioning of traditional military strategies. This person’s writings influenced military thinking in the 20th century. Served in World War I and later became a prominent analyst of World War II, offering insights that shaped discussions on military tactics and strategy. Published notable works assessing the nature of war and led to widespread discussion in military circles.
Continue ReadingFrank Nicklin
Australian politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
August 6th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1978 47 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 28th Premier of Queensland from 1957 to 1968. Led the Liberal Party to victory in the 1957 state election, marking a significant shift in Queensland's political landscape. Implemented various reforms during tenure, focusing on infrastructure and education in the state. Oversaw the construction of Brisbane's Story Bridge and initiated the establishment of new schools and hospitals.
Continue ReadingOscar Luigi Scalfaro
Italian politician and 9th President
Born
September 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the 9th President of Italy from 1992 to 1999. Prior to the presidency, held various roles including Minister of the Interior and President of the Chamber of Deputies. Played a significant role in Italian politics, especially during the turbulent period of the early 1990s, which saw the end of the First Republic. Advocated for stronger democratic institutions and contributed to the drafting of Italy's Constitution. Engaged in numerous initiatives concerning social justice and international cooperation.
Continue ReadingDouglas Haig
Scottish field marshal of WWI
Born
June 19th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1928 97 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent British military leader, contributed significantly during the First World War. Commanded the British Expeditionary Force from 1915 to 1918, overseeing major battles such as the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Passchendaele. Played a key role in coordinating Allied strategy during the war's later stages. Post-war, held the title of 1st Earl Haig and continued involvement in veterans' affairs for the British Legion, addressing military needs and welfare.
Continue ReadingEphraim Kishon
Israeli author and screenwriter
Born
August 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old
An Israeli author, screenwriter, and director contributed significantly to literature and film. First published in the 1950s, produced a range of humorous works that captured the essence of Israeli life. Wrote popular satirical columns, and plays that were performed on stages around the world. Many works translated into multiple languages, increasing global readership. Directed films based on his writings, achieving success in the Israeli film industry. Received numerous awards for both literary contributions and film productions.
Continue ReadingH. L. Mencken
American journalist and social critic
Born
September 12th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1956 69 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in American journalism, contributed extensively to the early 20th-century literary scene. Edited the Baltimore Evening Sun and founded the American Mercury magazine, a voice for literary and cultural criticism. Authored several books, including 'The American Language' and 'Prejudices', exploring language and societal norms. Critiqued American society, politics, and culture through sharp commentary and humor, aligning with the modernist movement. Played a key role in establishing a more vigorous and skeptical journalistic style in America.
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