Joan Mitchell
American-French abstract expressionist painter
Born in 1925, a significant figure in the abstract expressionism movement, Mitchell moved to Paris in the 1950s and became a prominent artist within the American expatriate community. The artist's works characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork reflect influences from the natural landscape, particularly from her time spent in the rural Midwest and Provence. Mitchell's paintings often evoke emotional landscapes and have been described as powerful and expressive. She participated in numerous exhibitions, gaining recognition for her contributions to modern art. In addition to painting, the artist also created prints and drawings, showcasing a versatile approach to her craft. Mitchell's legacy continues to influence contemporary artists and is celebrated in art history discussions.
Created series of large-scale paintings
Exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art
Other People Born on February 12th
Julius Streicher
German publisher of Der Stürmer
Born
February 12th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1946 80 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent German publisher, founded and edited the anti-Semitic newspaper Der Stürmer. Actively participated in the Nazi Party, promoting its ideology through print media. Streicher was a key figure in disseminating propaganda that fostered anti-Semitic sentiments in Germany during the 1930s and 1940s. The newspaper played a significant role in shaping public perception and attitudes towards Jews leading up to and during World War II.
Continue ReadingMike Posner
Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 12th, 1988 37 years ago
Started his career releasing mixtapes and gained significant attention with the single 'Cooler Than Me' in 2010. The debut album '31 Minutes to Takeoff' featured hits like 'Please Don't Go' and showcased a mix of pop and electronic influences. Later, produced tracks for prominent artists and expanded work into production and songwriting. Achieved recognition for the song 'I Took a Pill in Ibiza', which received widespread acclaim and commercial success, leading to a remix by a notable DJ. Has also undertaken projects involving personal reflection and poetry.
Continue ReadingRudolf Jakob Camerarius
Botanist, first to describe plant sex
Born
February 12th, 1665 360 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1721 304 years ago — 56 years old
A German botanist and physician, significant contributions included the discovery of plant reproduction through both male and female organs. Developed the terms 'stamen' and 'pistil', which are central to the study of botany. Published works on plant physiology and classification that laid foundations for modern botany. His research on the role of pollen in fertilization advanced understanding of plant biology. Engaged with various scientific societies, promoting advancements in the field during the 17th century.
Continue ReadingDom DiMaggio
Baseball player and All-Star center fielder
Born
February 12th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2009 16 years ago — 92 years old
Played professional baseball as a center fielder from 1939 to 1953. Spent the majority of his career with the Boston Red Sox. Achieved All-Star status three times and was a key contributor to the team's success during his tenure. After retirement, contributed to baseball as a coach and front office executive.
Continue ReadingKemal Bilmez
Belgian politician in regional government
Born
February 12th, 1994 31 years ago
Engaged in Belgian politics, held a significant role within the regional government. Focused on social and economic policies, contributing to local governance and community development. Worked towards enhancing civic engagement and representation within the political framework. Participated in various initiatives aimed at improving local infrastructure and public services.
Continue ReadingSigmund Rascher
German physician and experimenter
Born
February 12th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 36 years old
A German physician worked in the field of aviation medicine and conducted experiments during World War II. Rascher often collaborated with the Luftwaffe, studying the effects of high altitude on the human body and establishing protocols for pilots exposed to extreme conditions. His studies included infamous experiments related to hypothermia and freezing at Dachau concentration camp. He was also involved in unethical medical practices, resulting in his later trial for war crimes post-war.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 30th
William Cavendish-Bentinck
British Prime Minister and politician
Born
April 14th, 1738 287 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1809 216 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom twice, from 1783 to 1783 and from 1807 to 1809. Played a crucial role in the political landscape during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly in regard to issues such as the American Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars. Owned vast estates and was involved in local governance, impacting agricultural reforms. Participated in the formation of key political alliances and was instrumental in managing parliamentary affairs during his tenure.
Continue ReadingJohn Abbott
Prime Minister of Canada
Born
March 12th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1893 132 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician served as the third Prime Minister of Canada from 1891 to 1892. His leadership followed a lengthy career in public service, where he contributed to the development of Canadian policy and governance. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, played roles in provincial legislature and the federal Parliament. Abbott's tenure was marked by efforts to advance national interests and infrastructure development.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Kōmyō of Japan
Japanese Emperor during Edo Period
Born
April 20th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1654 371 years ago — 21 years old
Ascended the throne in 1654, serving as the 110th Emperor of Japan. He presided over a period marked by relative peace and stability known as the Edo period. Managed court affairs and engaged in the promotion of culture and art, including poetry and calligraphy. Undertook reforms to improve the imperial court's standing and foster relations with the ruling Tokugawa shogunate.
Continue ReadingMichael Palmer
Physician and author of medical thrillers
Born
October 9th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old
A physician and author, contributed to the genre of medical thrillers through a series of bestselling novels. Engaged in the practice of medicine while writing fiction that often drew upon medical knowledge and experiences. Authored titles such as 'The First Patient' and 'Critical Error,' which gained popularity for their intricate plots and realistic medical scenarios. Walker's stories combined suspense and medical expertise, appealing to both healthcare professionals and general readers. Additionally took part in discussions about public health and medical ethics within the literary community.
Continue ReadingMichel Le Tellier
French Minister of Defence
Born
April 19th, 1603 422 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1685 340 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a prominent French politician during the 17th century. Appointed as Minister of Defence under Cardinal Richelieu, played a crucial role in strengthening the French military. Oversaw reforms that improved the organization and effectiveness of the armed forces. His tenure contributed to France's military successes during the Thirty Years' War.
Continue ReadingJohn Woodruff
American middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
July 5th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old
Competed in middle-distance running, specifically the 800 meters. Won a gold medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. After his athletic career, served in the U.S. Army and achieved the rank of commander. Contributed to various community initiatives later in life. Built a legacy as both an athlete and a leader.
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