John Betjeman
English poet and academic
An English poet and academic, the figure contributed significantly to British literature. His poetry often celebrated the English countryside and architectural heritage. Betjeman served as the poet laureate from 1972 until his death in 1984. He published a number of well-received poetry collections, including 'Summoned by Bells', which reflects on his life experiences and British life. A prominent commentator on architecture and urban development, he advocated for the preservation of Victorian buildings.
Served as Poet Laureate from 1972 to 1984
Published 'Summoned by Bells' in 1960
Contributed to the preservation of Victorian architecture
Other People Born on August 28th
Anthony Ulrich
Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg
Born
August 28th, 1714 311 years ago
Died
1774 251 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1714, a member of the House of Welf, held the title of Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg. Involved in regional politics in Germany, participated in the governance and administration of the duchy. His leadership spanned critical periods, influencing local policies and alliances during his reign. Contributed to the cultural and economic development of the region through patronage and support of local institutions.
Continue ReadingKezia Dugdale
Scottish politician and former leader
Born
August 28th, 1981 44 years ago
A politician served as the leader of the Scottish Labour Party from 2015 to 2017. Represented the Edinburgh Eastern constituency in the Scottish Parliament from 2011 to 2019. Advocated for policies focusing on social justice, education, and the welfare state. Involved in various committees and contributed to discussions on health and equality.
Continue ReadingOla L. Mize
American colonel, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
August 28th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States Army. Participated in the Vietnam War, where significant acts of valor occurred. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during a combat mission in 1969. After military service, engaged in various veteran support initiatives.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Ann Seton
American nun and founder of a religious order
Born
August 28th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1821 204 years ago — 46 years old
Founded the first Catholic school in the United States and established the Sisters of Charity. Canonized as the first American-born saint in the Roman Catholic Church. Promoted education and religious instruction among the youth, significantly influencing the development of Catholic education in America. Served as a pioneer in providing social services and outreach within the community.
Continue ReadingTjalling Koopmans
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 28th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1985 40 years ago — 74 years old
A Dutch-American economist and mathematician, contributions centered around operations research and economic theory. Played a significant role in developing the theory of optimal economic organization, particularly in decentralized economies. Work laid the foundation for the field of mathematical economics. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1975 for contributions to the economic theory that highlights the allocation of resources in a decentralized context. Also served as a professor at Yale University, influencing the next generation of economists.
Continue ReadingFlorence Welch
Singer-songwriter and band leader
Born
August 28th, 1986 39 years ago
Welch is a British singer-songwriter and the lead vocalist of the band Florence + the Machine. The group achieved significant commercial success with their debut album, 'Lungs,' released in 2009, which topped the charts in multiple countries and won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist. The band's blend of baroque pop, soul, and indie rock garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, leading to global tours and performances at major music festivals.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 19th
Nathaniel Hawthorne
Novelist with The Scarlet Letter fame
Born
July 4th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1864 161 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1804, a significant American novelist and short story writer emerged, contributing to the American literary canon. The work often explored themes of morality, guilt, and human nature. The Scarlet Letter, published in 1850, became one of the most important works in American literature, showcasing a complex tale of sin and redemption in Puritan New England. Other notable works include The House of the Seven Gables and The Blithedale Romance, which reflect his interest in historical fiction and the human psyche. Hawthorne's unique writing style combined realism with romanticism, influencing future generations of authors.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich von Eschscholtz
Physician and botanist known for plant studies
Born
November 12th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1831 194 years ago — 37 years old
Born in Livonia in 1793, a physician and botanist contributed to the understanding of various plant species. Conducted extensive botanical research, exploring regions across Europe and Alaska. Described numerous plants, many of which were later classified and named. Associated with the field of systematic botany, focused on collecting and documenting flora, contributing to botanical literature and taxonomy.
Continue ReadingPhilipp Bouhler
German politician and Nazi official
Born
September 11th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1945 80 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1899, served as a prominent member of the Nazi Party holding significant positions during the regime. Played a key role in the administration of the T4 program, which involved the forced euthanasia of individuals deemed 'unworthy of life.' Actively participated in the organization of the Nazi government and held various responsibilities influencing policy and operations. Remained involved in the party until its collapse in 1945.
Continue ReadingJohn Stanley
English organist and composer
Born
January 17th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1786 239 years ago — 74 years old
An organist and composer from England, this individual was active in the 18th century. Several works for organ and orchestral music were created, significantly contributing to the repertoire of church and concert music. The tenure included serving as the organist at St. Andrew’s Church in Holborn and other notable institutions. Additionally, the composer produced a noteworthy set of organ concertos that showcased skills in instrumental composition. His works continue to be relevant in the study of Baroque music.
Continue ReadingGabriel Dumont
Métis leader and resistance figure
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1906 119 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent leader of the Métis people, played a key role in the North-West Rebellion of 1885. Advocated for Métis rights and land claims, promoting the preservation of Métis culture and heritage. Worked alongside Louis Riel in the resistance against the Canadian government, which sought to annex Métis lands. After the rebellion, faced exile in the United States before returning to Canada.
Continue ReadingHappy Rockefeller
Philanthropist and Second Lady
Born
June 9th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1926, a prominent philanthropist and the 31st Second Lady of the United States. Active in various charitable organizations, focused on health, education, and the arts. Served alongside husband Nelson Rockefeller during his vice presidency, providing support in social causes and public initiatives. Instrumental in promoting legislation related to the arts and children's welfare. Contributed significantly to the establishment of museums and cultural institutions.
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