Jean Genet
French novelist and playwright of 'The Balcony'
A prominent figure in 20th-century literature, this individual made significant contributions as a novelist, poet, and playwright. Renowned works include 'The Thief's Journal', 'The Balcony', and 'The Blacks', which explored themes of identity, social injustice, and the human condition. During the 1940s and 1950s, engagement with existentialism and the absurd shaped literary discussions. The individual also gained recognition for involvement with the French underground and influence on burgeoning gay literature. A unique style and perspective marked the literary legacy.
Authored 'The Thief's Journal'
Wrote the play 'The Balcony'
Contributed to the development of existentialism in literature
Other People Born on December 19th
Marie Thérèse of France
French princess and Dauphine of France
Born
December 19th, 1778 247 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1851 174 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1778, played a significant role in royal lineage as the only surviving child of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Following the execution of her parents during the French Revolution, faced imprisonment and eventual exile. Resided in various countries and negotiated her family's return to France. Eventually married Louis-Antoine, Duke of Angoulême, solidifying her commitment to the royal legacy. Lived until 1851, witnessing the dramatic changes in France over decades.
Continue ReadingJay Arnette
Basketball player, NCAA champion
Born
December 19th, 1938 87 years ago
A former basketball player who played at the collegiate level for the University of Kentucky. Contributed significantly to the team's success, leading to an NCAA championship in 1958. Played professionally in the American Basketball Association (ABA) for teams such as the New Jersey Americans. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, sharing knowledge of the game with future generations.
Continue ReadingJames L. Jones
U.S. General and National Security Advisor
Born
December 19th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, a four-star general in the United States Marine Corps and served as the 22nd National Security Advisor from 2009 to 2010 under President Barack Obama. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, held various leadership positions including Commandant of the Marine Corps and Commander of NATO forces in Europe. Played a pivotal role in military strategy and international relations during his tenure, which included involvement in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. After retiring from military service, engaged in various public speaking and advisory roles regarding defense and global security.
Continue ReadingElaine Joyce
Actress from Broadway and television
Born
December 19th, 1943 82 years ago
An American actress, singer, and dancer, recognized for performances in various theatrical productions and television series. Made a significant mark in Broadway productions during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained visibility on television as a regular on game shows and variety series, including 'The Match Game' and 'The Hollywood Squares'. Also appeared in several films, showcasing versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Continue ReadingJoanne Weaver
Baseball player, All-American Girls League
Born
December 19th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2000 25 years ago — 64 years old
A celebrated baseball player achieved recognition in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) during its existence from 1943 to 1954. Weaver played primarily as a shortstop and outfielder. She joined the league in 1944 and contributed to the success of teams such as the Chicago Colleens and the Grand Rapids Chicks. The league featured in the 1992 film 'A League of Their Own,' showcasing the challenges and accomplishments of female baseball players in the era. Weaver retired from professional baseball in 1954 but remained involved in the sport through coaching and mentoring young players, highlighting the importance of women's baseball in American sports history.
Continue ReadingMartin Hume Johnson
English physiologist and academic
Born
December 19th, 1944 81 years ago
Born in 1944, a significant figure in physiology, contributed to the understanding of human biological systems. Worked extensively in academic settings, publishing research that advanced knowledge in the field. Served in various educational roles, mentoring students and influencing the next generation of scientists. Engaged in professional organizations to promote the study of physiology and its relevance to health and medicine.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 15th
Leslie Charteris
Author of The Saint series
Born
May 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1993 32 years ago — 85 years old
An English author and screenwriter, primarily recognized for creating the character Simon Templar, also known as The Saint. The character debuted in the 1928 novel 'Meet The Saint' and gained significant popularity through a series of books, television adaptations, and films. Works featured action-adventure themes, blending crime fiction with a touch of humor. The Saint was portrayed in various adaptations, with notable portrayals by Roger Moore in the television series during the 1960s and 1970s. Charteris contributed to the narrative style of the detective genre with a charismatic protagonist who operated outside traditional law enforcement. Throughout his career, Charteris wrote more than 30 novels and short stories centered around The Saint, solidifying a lasting legacy in the realm of detective fiction.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Fain
Ukrainian-Israeli physicist and academic
Born
February 17th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Ukraine, contributions to physics included research in optics and condensed matter. Fain held academic positions at leading institutions, influencing the next generation of physicists. Work included significant studies on photonic crystals and their applications in technology. Engagement in international conferences facilitated collaboration between scientists worldwide.
Continue ReadingTommy Cooper
Magician and prop comedian
Born
March 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1984 41 years ago — 63 years old
A magician and prop comedian who gained popularity in the United Kingdom during the mid-20th century through television performances and stage shows. Cooper's signature style combined magic with humor, often involving misdirected props and a distinctive fez hat. His career flourished with appearances on shows such as 'The Parkinson Show' and 'It's Friday, then...'. His unique approach blended comedy with traditional magic, making performances memorable and entertaining.
Continue ReadingSurya Bahadur Thapa
Nepalese Prime Minister and politician
Born
March 21st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Nepal and held office multiple times between 1961 and 1995. Played a significant role in Nepalese politics during the establishment of democracy in the country. Worked towards modernizing Nepal's political landscape and economic policies. Contributed to the fostering of relations with neighboring countries.
Continue ReadingHu Yaobang
Chinese politician, General Secretary of CPC
Born
November 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1989 36 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent Chinese politician served as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party from 1982 to 1987. During this time, initiated economic reforms that aimed to modernize China’s economy. His leadership style emphasized open political discourse and a departure from dogmatic Marxism. Resigned amid pressures related to student protests and was viewed as a reformist. Posthumously honored as a symbol of political reform during subsequent demonstrations.
Continue ReadingArthur Lowe
English actor in 'Dad's Army'
Born
1915 111 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1982 43 years ago — 67 years old
An English actor achieved prominence through performances in television and film. Best recognized for the role of Captain Mainwaring in the BBC sitcom 'Dad's Army', contributed to the series' enduring popularity from 1968 to 1977. Also appeared in several films and television series throughout the 1960s and 1970s, showcasing a range of skills in both comedy and drama. His career included appearances in stage productions, further highlighting versatility in acting. Garnered admiration for both comedic timing and character portrayals, leaving a lasting legacy in British television.
Continue Reading