John Dryden
English poet and playwright, 'Absalom and Achitophel'
A prominent figure in English literature, this individual contributed significantly as a poet, literary critic, and playwright. Sovereign Poet Laureate from 1668, worked during the Restoration period. Notable works include the play 'All for Love' and the poem 'Absalom and Achitophel', which reflect the political and social themes of the time. Engaged in literary criticism and established principles of drama and poetry that shaped English literature. His career also included writing for the stage and participation in political satire, showing a strong influence on subsequent generations of writers.
Served as Poet Laureate of England
Wrote the poem 'Absalom and Achitophel'
Authored the play 'All for Love'
Other People Born on August 19th
Patrick Chung
American football safety, Super Bowl champion
Born
August 19th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in Jamaica and raised in the United States, this football player excelled at the safety position in the National Football League (NFL). Playing primarily for the New England Patriots, contributed significantly to the team's defense during multiple seasons. Achieved notable success in the NFL, including key contributions during playoff runs and Super Bowl victories. Known for versatility on the field, played a vital role in defending against both the pass and run.
Continue ReadingSaori Kimura
Japanese volleyball player, Olympic medalist
Born
August 19th, 1986 39 years ago
A professional volleyball player, participated in multiple international competitions. Achieved significant success with the Japan national team, including a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics. Played for teams such as Heian High School and the NEC Red Rockets. Continued to contribute to the sport through club commitments and international representation, highlighting excellence in performance and skill within volleyball.
Continue ReadingLindsey Jacobellis
Snowboarder and Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 19th, 1985 40 years ago
A celebrated snowboarder, this individual excelled in the snowboard cross event. Winning the gold medal at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics marked a pinnacle in a career that included multiple X Games titles. Early competition success included dominating the World Cup circuit, where multiple overall championships were secured. Competed in the 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympics, achieving silver in the former. Established as one of the top athletes in snowboarding, showcased skills and competitive spirit in high-stakes events, representing the United States on the international stage.
Continue ReadingJung Ye-rin
South Korean singer and actress known for K-pop
Born
August 19th, 1996 29 years ago
Born in 1996, a South Korean singer and actress gained recognition as a member of the girl group GFRIEND, which debuted in 2015. The group achieved commercial success with hits such as 'Me Gustas Tu' and 'Rough.' Apart from music, ventured into acting, taking roles in various Korean dramas, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry. GFRIEND disbanded in 2021, after which pursued a solo career in music and film projects.
Continue ReadingPio Seci
Rugby league player for Fiji and NRL
Born
August 19th, 1993 32 years ago
A rugby league player participated in competitions primarily in the NRL. Represented Fiji in international fixtures, playing a significant role in the national team's campaigns. Played for several clubs in Australia, contributing to the teams with skillful performances and resilience on the field.
Continue ReadingChristina Perri
American singer-songwriter, 'Jar of Hearts'
Born
August 19th, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, this American singer-songwriter gained fame with the hit single 'Jar of Hearts' in 2010, which became a viral success and led to major recognition. The single was featured on the television show 'So You Think You Can Dance', contributing to its popularity. Following this breakout hit, several albums were released, including 'Lovestrong' which debuted at number four on the Billboard 200. The song 'A Thousand Years', part of the 'Twilight: Breaking Dawn – Part 1' soundtrack, further solidified the artist's presence in the music industry, achieving multi-platinum certifications. The heartfelt lyrics and emotive performances have resonated with a wide audience, showcasing songwriting skills and vocal talent.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
János Batsányi
Hungarian-Austrian poet and author
Born
May 9th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1845 180 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1763, authored influential works in Hungarian literature. Contributed to the development of the Hungarian language in poetry and drama. Engaged in political and cultural reform movements during his lifetime, advocating for national identity and the use of Hungarian in literary forms.
Continue ReadingJózef Piłsudski
Polish field marshal and Prime Minister
Born
December 5th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1935 90 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1867, a prominent military and political leader in Poland. Played a key role in regaining Poland's independence in 1918 after over a century of partition. Served as the country's first Chief of State and later as Prime Minister. Instrumental in the Polish-Soviet War (1919-1921), leading to the decisive victory at the Battle of Warsaw. Established Poland's military and political framework during its formative years.
Continue ReadingKai Setälä
Finnish physician and professor
Born
September 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
A Finnish physician and professor with a focus on internal medicine. Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Helsinki, shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Published numerous articles in medical journals reflecting expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Played a crucial role in advancing medical practices in Finland.
Continue ReadingPerry Como
Singer and television host with hit songs
Born
May 18th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in American music and television, this individual rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Known for smooth vocal delivery and relaxed style, contributed to the popularity of popular music and variety shows. Hosted 'The Perry Como Show' from 1955 to 1966, which showcased a range of performances and welcomed numerous guest stars. Recorded numerous hits, achieving substantial success on the Billboard charts, and earned multiple Grammy Awards throughout a long-lasting career.
Continue ReadingNelly Sachs
Nobel Prize-winning poet and playwright
Born
December 10th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1970 55 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Germany, a notable poet and playwright created significant works that addressed themes of exile and the Jewish experience during World War II. Fleeing the rise of the Nazi regime, relocated to Sweden, where the majority of her literary contributions were made. Much of her writing reflected her personal loss and the broader tragedy of the Holocaust, utilizing a deeply emotional and lyrical style. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1966 in recognition of her literary achievements and profound impact on poetry.
Continue ReadingPeter Gay
Historian and author of significant works
Born
June 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
A German-American historian and author, contributed extensively to the field of history with a focus on modern European history. Received a Ph.D. from Columbia University and taught at various prestigious institutions. Published influential works, exploring themes of Enlightenment and the interplay between politics and culture. The work 'The Bourgeois Experience: Victoria to Freud' was pivotal in discussing the evolution of bourgeois society. Also authored biographical works on notable figures such as Sigmund Freud and Karl Marx.
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