Jim Harrison
American novelist and poet
An American novelist, essayist, and poet, contributed significant works in literature throughout the 20th century. Published numerous novels, essays, and poems that explored themes of nature, food, and the human condition. Gained recognition for the novel 'Legends of the Fall', which was later adapted into a film. Worked consistently in the realm of creative writing, influencing a generation of writers. Received various accolades for literary contributions, making substantial contributions to American letters.
Authored 'Legends of the Fall'
Published 'Dalva' and 'The Road Home'
Contributed essays to 'The New York Times'
Other People Born on December 11th
Maila Nurmi
Actress and producer known as Vampira
Born
December 11th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 10th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old
An actress, producer, and screenwriter, gained recognition as the character Vampira, featuring in the 1956 film 'Plan 9 from Outer Space'. Created a television show in the 1950s that showcased horror films, becoming an early pioneer of horror television. Managed to capture the public's attention with unique style and personality.
Continue ReadingNaguib Mahfouz
Egyptian Author, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
December 11th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 94 years old
An Egyptian author, playwright, and screenwriter, this individual contributed significantly to Arabic literature and was the first Arab writer to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1988. His works often explored themes of existentialism and social justice, providing insightful commentary on the human condition and Egyptian society. Major literary achievements include the 'Cairo Trilogy,' which encompasses the novels 'Palace Walk,' 'Palace of Desire,' and 'Sugar Street,' showcasing the intricacies of family life in Cairo. The author's storytelling blended realism with philosophical introspection, earning a place in global literature.
Continue ReadingRobert Koch
Microbiologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 11th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1910 115 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent microbiologist and physician contributed significantly to the field of bacteriology. Discovered the causative agents of tuberculosis, cholera, and anthrax. Developed techniques for isolating bacteria, which paved the way for advancements in microbiological research. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1905 for work on tuberculosis, which remains a major health concern worldwide.
Continue ReadingMiranda Tapsell
Australian actress, known for 'Top End Wedding'
Born
December 11th, 1987 38 years ago
An actress born in 1987, recognized for work in film and television. Achieved significant acclaim for the starring role in 'Top End Wedding', which received positive reviews and spotlighted Indigenous culture in Australia. Played major roles in various television series, including 'The Heights' and 'Love Child', showcasing a range of characters and narratives. Tapsell's contributions extend beyond acting, as she has also worked as a producer, highlighting stories relevant to Indigenous communities.
Continue ReadingSantiago Creel
Mexican politician and Secretary of the Interior
Born
December 11th, 1954 71 years ago
A lawyer and politician involved in the Mexican political landscape since the late 20th century. Served as Secretary of the Interior from 2000 to 2003 under President Vicente Fox. Elected to the Chamber of Deputies and held positions within the National Action Party (PAN). Focused on issues related to security and governance during his tenure. Participated in various electoral processes, advocating for reforms within the party's structure and electoral laws.
Continue ReadingGerd Arntz
Modernist artist, co-creator of Isotype
Born
December 11th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 88 years old
An artist associated with the modernist movement, contributed significantly to visual communication through the development of the Isotype (International System of Typographic Picture Education). The Isotype aimed to present information visually, utilizing simple and clear symbols to convey complex ideas. This system became influential in various fields, including education, sociology, and design. Arntz's work was characterized by bold graphics and a commitment to clarity, reflecting the ideals of the modernist aesthetic during the early to mid-20th century. Collaborated with other artists and thinkers to promote the use of visual language in presenting statistical data and social information.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 26th
Sugawara no Michizane
Japanese poet and court official
Born
August 1st, 845 1180 years ago
Died
March 26th, 903 1122 years ago — 57 years old
A notable figure in Japanese literature, played a significant role as a scholar and poet in the Heian period. Provided influential works that contributed to the development of Japanese poetry. After death, associated with the deity Tenjin, worshiped by students and scholars. Many of his poems are included in major anthologies.
Continue ReadingNoël Coward
Playwright and composer of 'Blithe Spirit'
Born
December 16th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1973 52 years ago — 73 years old
A prolific English playwright, actor, and composer, this individual created works that encapsulated wit and sophistication. Major contributions include iconic plays such as 'Blithe Spirit' and 'Hay Fever', alongside numerous songs and musical compositions. Acclaimed for theatrical productions, performances showcased sharp dialogue and clever characterizations, reflecting the social milieu of the time. Work extended to film, with involvement in adaptations of various plays. This individual held a significant position in the British theatre scene during the 20th century, attracting audiences with engaging narratives and memorable melodies.
Continue ReadingJoseph-Ignace Guillotin
French physician and politician
Born
May 28th, 1738 287 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1814 211 years ago — 75 years old
A physician and politician from France, contributed to the development of the guillotine, a device for carrying out executions. Advocated for humane methods of execution during the French Revolution. Served as a member of the National Assembly and sought reforms related to the treatment of prisoners and legal proceedings. Played a significant role in the political landscape of revolutionary France.
Continue ReadingJohn Kennedy Toole
American novelist; 'A Confederacy of Dunces'
Born
December 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1969 56 years ago — 31 years old
An American novelist achieved acclaim posthumously for a single work. Wrote a comic novel focused on the misadventures of Ignatius J. Reilly. Published 'A Confederacy of Dunces' in 1980, around 11 years after the author's suicide. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1981, gaining significant recognition and maintaining a cult following over the years.
Continue ReadingCarolyn Wells
American novelist and poet
Born
June 18th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1942 83 years ago — 79 years old
An accomplished novelist and poet, this individual wrote over 50 novels and numerous poems throughout a prolific literary career. Major works included the 'Felicity' series and the mystery novel 'The Clue'. Contributions to the genre of detective fiction gained recognition, and the individual also published collections of poetry covering various themes. In addition to fiction, the individual served as an editor for several periodicals, further influencing American literature in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingJimmy Burke
Baseball player and manager.
Born
October 12th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1942 83 years ago — 67 years old
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1913 to 1920. Managed teams in the American Association after retirement from playing. Contributed significantly to the sport both as a player and a manager, shaping players and strategies during a transformative period in baseball's history.
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