Johann Georg Graevius
German scholar and literary critic
A prominent scholar and critic in the 17th century, contributed significantly to the study of classical literature. Focused on the analysis and compilation of classical texts, emphasizing their historical context and philosophical content. Published pivotal works, including major commentaries and editions of ancient authors. Established a reputation for meticulous research and scholarship, influencing future generations of scholars.
Published 'Thesaurus Antiquitatum et Historiarum' which compiled classical texts
Edited works of classical authors, including Cicero and Pliny
Other People Born on January 29th
Karol Olszewski
Chemist and physicist, liquid oxygen innovator
Born
January 29th, 1846 180 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1915 111 years ago — 69 years old
A Polish chemist, mathematician, and physicist contributed significantly to the field of physical sciences. Conducted groundbreaking experiments in liquefaction and successfully liquefied oxygen in 1883. Collaborated with other scientists to further advancements in cryogenics. Also engaged in academic pursuits, teaching at various institutions and sharing knowledge on thermodynamics and related subjects.
Continue ReadingBill Peet
Author and illustrator of children's books
Born
January 29th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2002 24 years ago — 87 years old
An American author and illustrator specialized in children's literature. Created a unique style of illustration that accompanied captivating stories. Worked with Walt Disney Productions as an animator and contributed to projects such as 'Dumbo' and 'Sword in the Stone.' Authored and illustrated over 30 children's books, which are celebrated for their imaginative narratives and detailed artwork. Retired from animation to focus on writing and illustrating full-time, leaving a lasting influence in the realm of children's literature.
Continue ReadingTommy Ramone
Drummer and producer for The Ramones
Born
January 29th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
July 11th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Hungary, a drummer and producer emerged as a founding member of the punk rock band The Ramones. Contributed significantly to the band's iconic sound in the 1970s. Played on several of their early albums, including the groundbreaking debut album 'Ramones' released in 1976. Later took on production responsibilities for the band and worked with other artists in the music industry.
Continue ReadingBarnett Newman
American painter, Color Field artist
Born
January 29th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1970 55 years ago — 65 years old
Significant figure in abstract expressionism, focused on color and line in art. Developed a distinct style characterized by large fields of color and simple forms. Pioneered the use of the 'zip', a vertical line that divides color fields. Created works that explored themes of space and scale. Influenced the direction of modern art.
Continue ReadingOprah Winfrey
Talk show host and media executive
Born
January 29th, 1954 72 years ago
Started a career in media as a news anchor in Nashville, before creating a nationally syndicated talk show that ran for 25 years. Established a production company, Harpo Productions, which produced films and television programs. Acted in the film 'The Color Purple' and received an Academy Award nomination. Became a prominent figure in publishing and launched the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), a cable channel devoted to lifestyle programming.
Continue ReadingJames Jamerson
American bass player with Motown Records
Born
January 29th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1983 42 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent bass player in the Motown sound, contributed to numerous classic songs during the 1960s. Played on iconic tracks by various artists, influencing the genre of soul and rock music. Worked primarily as a session musician, utilizing the Fender Precision Bass to craft memorable lines that became integral to the rhythm and melody of countless hits. Jamerson's innovative playing style and techniques helped define the bass guitar's role in popular music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 11th
Denys Lasdun
Architect, co-designed Royal National Theatre
Born
September 8th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2001 25 years ago — 86 years old
An English architect focused on modernist architecture and design. Co-designed the Royal National Theatre in London, a landmark example of brutalist architecture. His work emphasized the relationship between buildings and their surroundings, often integrating landscape into architectural forms. Worked on various educational buildings, cultural institutions, and residential projects throughout the UK. Received the Royal Institute of British Architects Gold Medal and was a member of the Royal Academy.
Continue ReadingIsidore Glabas
Metropolitan bishop of Thessalonica
Died
January 11th, 1396 630 years ago — None years old
Served as Metropolitan bishop of Thessalonica during a significant period in the Byzantine Empire. Influenced religious and political life in the region, contributing to the ecclesiastical leadership and theological discourse of the time. Played a role in regional politics and church governance amidst the changing dynamics of the late 14th century. Passed away in 1396, leaving behind a legacy in the Orthodox Church.
Continue ReadingHeraclius II of Georgia
King of Georgia, Russian Empire ally
Born
1720 306 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1798 228 years ago — 78 years old
Ruled as King of Georgia from 1744 until death in 1798. Focused on modernizing the kingdom and strengthening ties with the Russian Empire. Engaged in military campaigns against Persian and Ottoman forces. Worked to consolidate power and expand the influence of Georgia during his reign. After facing multiple invasions, sought assistance from Russia, leading to Georgia's eventual annexation into the Russian Empire.
Continue ReadingAriel Sharon
Israeli General and Prime Minister
Born
February 26th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2014 12 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 11th Prime Minister of Israel from 2001 to 2006. Held various significant military and governmental positions throughout career. Initially gained prominence as a military leader during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and later as a commander in multiple conflicts, including the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War. Became a prominent figure in Israeli politics, shaping policies during critical periods, including the Lebanon War in 1982. Advocated for the disengagement from Gaza in 2005, which led to the withdrawal of Israeli troops and settlers from the region. His political career was marked by a blend of military and civilian leadership.
Continue ReadingPadraic Colum
Irish poet and playwright
Born
1881 145 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1972 54 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to Irish literature during the 20th century. Published numerous collections of poetry and wrote several plays, including 'The Land' and 'The Onlookers'. Engaged with the Irish literary revival and collaborated with other prominent figures such as William Butler Yeats. Alongside poetry and drama, wrote children's books, further influencing Irish cultural life. His works often explored themes of nature, mythology, and the human condition.
Continue ReadingMostafa Ahmadi-Roshan
Iranian physicist and academic
Born
1980 46 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2012 14 years ago — 32 years old
Contributed to the field of nuclear physics and served as a researcher at the Natanz uranium enrichment facility. Played a significant role in advancing nuclear science in Iran. Engaged in academic pursuits and published research works related to nuclear technology. Discussed the implications of nuclear energy for Iran's development and energy independence.
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