Joachim du Bellay
French poet and literary critic
Born
1522
503 years ago
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
France
Links & References
Contributed significantly to the French Renaissance through poetry and literary criticism. Promoted the French language as a vehicle for poetic expression. His most notable work, 'Les Regrets,' reflects personal and national identity, along with a longing for his native land while in Rome. Advocated for the use of vernacular language in literature over Latin. Engaged in discussions around the value of the French poetic tradition.
Wrote 'Les Regrets'
Promoted French over Latin in poetry
Other People Who Died on January 1st
Vilmos Zsigmond
Cinematographer of 'The Deer Hunter'
Born
June 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 9 years ago — 85 years old
A cinematographer and producer, born in Hungary and later becoming a prominent figure in American cinema. Worked on significant films from the 1970s onwards. Contributed visual storytelling to numerous acclaimed projects and collaborated with notable directors. Influenced the craft of cinematography through innovative techniques and artistic vision. Won an Academy Award for the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' and received multiple nominations throughout his career.
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 ReadingWilliam Lloyd Standish
United States District Judge
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
Appointed as a United States District Judge, served on the bench for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Provided significant rulings on various federal cases during tenure. Held a distinguished career in the judiciary, contributing to the legal system and its development in the region. Worked prior as a law clerk and engaged in private legal practice before judicial appointment.
Continue ReadingTheobald von Bethmann Hollweg
German Chancellor during World War I
Born
November 29th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1921 104 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the Chancellor of Germany from 1909 to 1917 during a tumultuous period leading up to and during World War I. As a member of the German Conservative Party, focused on promoting the interests of Germany in a time of great political upheaval. Oversaw significant military decisions and was involved in diplomatic efforts with other nations. Resigned in the wake of military setbacks and growing dissatisfaction with the government, particularly following the failure of the Hindenburg Program.
Continue ReadingDale Bumpers
American politician and Governor
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 38th Governor of Arkansas from 1971 to 1975. Bumpers was a member of the Democratic Party and represented Arkansas in the United States Senate from 1975 to 1999. During gubernatorial tenure, focused on education and infrastructure improvements. Advocated for farmers and rural communities. In the Senate, Bumpers was influential in various committees and played a significant role in legislative processes.
Continue ReadingFazu Aliyeva
Russian poet and journalist
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 9 years ago — 84 years old
Contributions included poetry that explored themes of love, loss, and identity, often reflecting on personal and societal struggles. Aliyeva also worked as a journalist, covering significant cultural and social issues prevalent in Russian society. The literary works showcased an intricate understanding of human emotions and experiences, allowing connections with a broad audience. Activity spanned several decades, leaving a notable legacy in Russian literature. Aliyeva's poetry remains influential in contemporary circles, often studied for its emotional depth and cultural context.
Continue Reading