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
J. J. Hardy
Baseball shortstop and All-Star player
Born
August 19th, 1982 44 years ago
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball for the Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins, and Baltimore Orioles. Achieved All-Star selections and won Gold Glove Awards for exceptional defensive skills. Contributed significantly to the Orioles' playoff run in 2014, helping the team reach the American League Championship Series.
Continue ReadingTipper Gore
American activist and author
Born
August 19th, 1948 78 years ago
An American activist and author, served as Second Lady of the United States from 1993 to 2001. Founded the Parents Music Resource Center, advocating for parental advisory labels on music. Played a significant role in opposing censorship in the arts. Engaged in various social issues, including mental health awareness. Authored several books, including 'Raised By Monsters.'
Continue ReadingEdward Boscawen
English admiral and politician
Born
August 19th, 1711 315 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1761 265 years ago — 49 years old
An English admiral and politician, significant contributions to naval warfare during the Seven Years' War occurred. Led naval operations that secured British dominance at sea. Served as a Member of Parliament for several constituencies. Commanded ships in crucial battles, including the Battle of Louisbourg, which played a pivotal role in the war. His career spanned significant military and political developments in 18th-century Britain.
Continue ReadingDarryl Sutter
Ice hockey coach & Stanley Cup champion
Born
August 19th, 1958 68 years ago
A professional ice hockey player transitioned into coaching, gaining recognition in the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, contributed to the Chicago Blackhawks and later served as a head coach for several teams, including the Los Angeles Kings. Led the Kings to victory in the 2012 Stanley Cup Finals, marking the first championship in the franchise's history. Achieved acclaim for implementing successful strategies and developing players throughout his coaching tenure.
Continue ReadingMissy Higgins
Australian singer-songwriter
Born
August 19th, 1983 43 years ago
An Australian singer-songwriter emerged in the early 2000s with a distinct blend of pop and folk music. Gained recognition with the debut album, 'The Sound of White', released in 2004, which featured hit singles like 'Scar' and 'The Special Two'. The album achieved multi-platinum status and showcased unique lyrical storytelling. Continued to release successful albums, including 'On a Clear Night' and 'Oz', contributing to both the Australian music scene and international acclaim. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, advocating for mental health awareness through music and outreach.
Continue ReadingDavid Rittich
Czech ice hockey goaltender
Born
August 19th, 1992 34 years ago
A professional ice hockey goaltender with a career spanning multiple teams in the National Hockey League (NHL). Rittich began his NHL career with the Calgary Flames after being signed as a free agent. He played a significant role in the team's goaltending lineup, establishing himself as a reliable starter. Later, he joined the Toronto Maple Leafs, contributing to the team's efforts in the playoffs. Rittich has also represented the Czech Republic in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Felix Steiner
SS officer and military leader
Born
May 23rd, 1896 130 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1966 60 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Commanded the SS division known as the 11th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division Nordland. Participated in various military operations on the Eastern Front and played a significant role during the battles in the latter stages of the war. Post-war, faced legal issues related to wartime actions.
Continue ReadingCharles Barry
Architect, designer of Palace of Westminster
Born
May 23rd, 1795 231 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1860 166 years ago — 64 years old
An English architect played a pivotal role in the development of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed the Palace of Westminster in London after the original building was destroyed by fire in 1834. Completed the iconic structure in 1876, establishing a landmark of British politics. Also designed Upper Brook Street Chapel in Manchester, showcasing neoclassical elements.
Continue ReadingBedřich Smetana
Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 2nd, 1824 202 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1884 142 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1824, a Czech composer and pianist became a key figure in the development of Czech national music. His composition, 'The Bartered Bride,' gained international recognition for its incorporation of Czech folk themes. Smetana's work 'Má vlast' contains symphonic poems that celebrate the landscapes and history of Bohemia. Amidst his successful career, he also faced personal challenges, including hearing loss, which impacted his later compositions. His legacy endures through the influence on subsequent generations of composers in the classical genre.
Continue ReadingLouis Calhern
American actor in classic films
Born
February 19th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1956 70 years ago — 61 years old
An American actor, notable performances included roles in classic films such as 'The Asphalt Jungle' and 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'. Worked extensively in theatre and film throughout the mid-20th century, showcasing versatility in character portrayals. Contributed to the industry over several decades with significant appearances in various genres, demonstrating a strong presence in both supporting and lead roles. Later films reflected a mastery in dramatic narratives.
Continue ReadingAnselme Payen
French chemist and academic
Born
January 6th, 1795 231 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1878 148 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed to the field of chemistry by discovering the enzyme diastase, an important catalyst in the breakdown of starch into sugars. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and published numerous scientific articles. Participated in the establishment of the Société Chimique de France, promoting chemical research in France.
Continue ReadingSergey Aksakov
Russian soldier and author of memoirs
Born
October 1st, 1791 235 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1859 167 years ago — 67 years old
One of the prominent figures in 19th-century Russian literature and military service. Served as an officer in the Russian army. Gained recognition for literary works, particularly 'The Family Chronicle' and autobiographical writings that depicted the life of a Russian noble family. Contributed to the development of realistic prose in Russia, drawing on personal experiences and observations.
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