John Grierson
Scottish film director and producer
A pioneering figure in documentary filmmaking, established the British documentary movement. Founded the National Film Board of Canada, promoting film as a means of cultural expression. Worked on influential documentaries such as 'Drifters' and 'Night Mail', which showcased the power of film to tell stories of ordinary life and social issues. His work profoundly shaped the documentary genre.
Founded the National Film Board of Canada
Directed the documentary 'Night Mail'
Directed the documentary 'Drifters'
Other People Born on April 26th
Alberto Quintano
Chilean footballer
Born
April 26th, 1946 79 years ago
A prominent figure in Chilean football, played as a midfielder for several clubs. Spent significant parts of the career at Universidad de Chile, where contributed to multiple championships. Represented the national team in international competitions, playing in crucial qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingJohn II of France
King of France, captured at Poitiers
Born
April 26th, 1319 706 years ago
Died
1364 662 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as king from 1350 until capture in 1356. Faced significant challenges during the Hundred Years' War, leading France against the English forces. The Battle of Poitiers resulted in a major defeat, resulting in capture and subsequent imprisonment in England. Signed the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, which had lasting implications for French territory and sovereignty. Returned to France in 1364 after his release.
Continue ReadingPaul Verner
German soldier and politician
Born
April 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 75 years old
Served as a soldier during World War II and later entered politics in East Germany. Played a key role in the Socialist Unity Party and held significant positions within the government structure. Contributed to the establishment of socialist policies in post-war Germany. Actively participated in shaping the political landscape until the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingThomas Reid
Scottish philosopher and academic
Born
April 26th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1796 229 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, contributed significantly to philosophy, particularly in the fields of epistemology and moral philosophy. Established the philosophy of common sense, emphasizing immediate perception as a foundation for knowledge. Served as a professor at the University of Aberdeen and later at the University of Glasgow. Wrote influential works, including 'An Inquiry into the Human Mind on the Principles of Common Sense' and 'Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man'. Engaged in philosophical debates with other Enlightenment thinkers, shaping the discourse of the time.
Continue ReadingMarie de' Medici
French queen consort and regent
Born
April 26th, 1575 450 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1642 383 years ago — 67 years old
Born into the powerful Medici family, a significant political player in France, served as queen consort of Henry IV and later as regent during the minority of her son, Louis XIII. Oversaw a period of political maneuvering and cultural patronage. Played a crucial role in shaping the arts and politics of France during her regency, fostering relationships with prominent artists and architects.
Continue ReadingCharles Farrar Browne
American author and humorist
Born
April 26th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1867 158 years ago — 32 years old
Became a prominent American author and humorist in the 19th century. Created the character Artemus Ward, gaining widespread popularity through humorous sketches published in newspapers and magazines. Contributed to the literary scene with a unique satirical style that critiqued contemporary issues. Educated in various institutions, Browne also influenced comedic writing and performance during his time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 19th
Joseph Szigeti
Renowned Hungarian violinist
Born
September 5th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1973 52 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent violinist from Hungary, significant contributions included performances with esteemed orchestras and collaborations with famous composers. Renowned for interpretations of classical works, collaborated with figures such as Bartók and Stravinsky. Regularly performed in Europe and America, earning acclaim for technical prowess and expressive style. Played a vital role in promoting contemporary music through concert performances and recordings. Recognized for his efforts in music education.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Emmanuel
Duke of Mercœur
Born
September 9th, 1558 467 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1602 423 years ago — 43 years old
Duke of Mercœur served as a prominent noble figure in France during the late 16th century. Being the son of a notable duke and inheriting titles and lands, he played a significant role in the French Wars of Religion. Leading military campaigns, he commanded forces in the royal cause against the Huguenots. His political maneuvers included seeking alliances and consolidating power within his territories. He was involved in various military conflicts, esteemed for tactical prowess in both offense and defense. His life concluded in 1602 after a period of noteworthy service in the tumultuous political landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingBon Scott
Rock vocalist and songwriter for AC/DC
Born
July 9th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1980 45 years ago — 33 years old
Born in Scotland, Scott emigrated to Australia in his youth. He joined the rock band AC/DC in 1975, serving as the lead vocalist and lyricist. Scott played a crucial role in shaping the band's sound and image during the 1970s. His energetic performances and distinctive voice contributed to the group's rise in popularity. The release of the album 'High Voltage' in 1975 marked their breakthrough, followed by iconic albums such as 'Highway to Hell' in 1979. Tragically, Scott's life ended prematurely in 1980 due to alcohol-related causes.
Continue ReadingAndré Gide
French novelist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 22nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1951 74 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in French literature, contributions included influential novels, essays, and plays. Focused on themes of individualism and moral complexity, works often challenged societal norms. Significant publications included 'The Immoralist', 'The Counterfeiters', and 'Straight is the Gate'. Recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1947, recognized for a body of work that explored the intricacies of human experience. Gide's literary career spanned several decades, influencing many writers and thinkers.
Continue ReadingThomas Burgess
Bishop and philosopher in England
Born
November 18th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1837 188 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Bishop of St David's and was a prominent philosopher during the early 19th century. Contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy. Worked to improve the education system within the Church and advocated for the training of clergy. Engaged in the literary world through writings that explored religious and philosophical themes.
Continue ReadingMary
English aristocrat and philanthropist
Born
July 6th, 1701 324 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1785 240 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in 18th century England, she held the title of Countess of Harold. Engaged in various philanthropic endeavors, supported social causes, and contributed to charitable institutions. Pursued initiatives that benefited the less fortunate, emphasizing education and welfare for the needy. Influenced her contemporaries through her active involvement in charitable organizations and local governance.
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