John H. Johnson
American publisher and founder of Ebony
Established the Johnson Publishing Company in 1942, which became the largest African American-owned publisher in the United States. Launched Ebony magazine, a leading publication that focused on African American culture and issues. Also published Jet magazine, which provided news and entertainment focused on the African American community. Advocated for the representation of African Americans in media throughout his career.
Founded Ebony magazine in 1945
Launched Jet magazine in 1951
Developed the largest African American-controlled publishing company
Other People Born on January 19th
Claudio Marchisio
Italian footballer and Juventus midfielder
Born
January 19th, 1986 39 years ago
Played as a midfielder primarily for Juventus, having joined the club's youth academy. Debuted in 2006 and contributed to the team's multiple Serie A title victories from 2012 to 2019. Represented the Italian national team, participating in the FIFA World Cup in 2010, 2014, and 2018, and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Euro 2020.
Continue ReadingJavier Pérez de Cuéllar
Peruvian diplomat and Prime Minister
Born
January 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2020 5 years ago — 100 years old
A prominent Peruvian diplomat and politician, served as the 135th Prime Minister of Peru from 1980 to 1985. Held the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1981 to 1991, where significant initiatives included conflict resolution efforts in various regions. Played a crucial role in peace negotiations related to the Iran-Iraq War and the Namibia conflict. Also served as ambassador to France and has been involved in various international diplomatic efforts throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingHitachiyama Taniemon
Japanese sumo wrestler, 19th Yokozuna
Born
January 19th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1922 103 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent sumo wrestler, achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in the sport. Competing at the turn of the 20th century, gained recognition for exceptional skill and technique, establishing a legacy within the sumo community. Contributed to the popularization of sumo wrestling throughout Japan, leaving a significant mark on the history of the sport. Helped to enhance the standard of competition during his era.
Continue ReadingJean-Philippe Baratier
German scholar and author of 'Historia Naturalis'
Born
January 19th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1740 285 years ago — 19 years old
Contributed significantly to natural history through scholarly writing. Published 'Historia Naturalis', which focused on various aspects of nature and the environment. Engaged in academic study and discourse, providing insights and knowledge relevant to the natural sciences during the 18th century. Involved in the intellectual circles of the time, fostering discussions aimed at understanding natural phenomena and their implications.
Continue ReadingPatricia Highsmith
American novelist and thriller writer
Born
January 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1995 30 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1921, a prominent figure in American literature, known for psychological thrillers that explore themes of morality and identity. Achieved recognition with the publication of "Strangers on a Train" in 1950, which established a new genre of suspense fiction. The creation of the character Tom Ripley in the novel "The Talented Mr. Ripley" (1955) further solidified a legacy in thriller writing. Highsmith's works often featured complex characters and moral ambiguity, influencing the genre significantly throughout her career. Her writing style and innovative plot techniques garnered critical acclaim, leading to several adaptations of her novels into films, thereby reaching wider audiences.
Continue ReadingSvetlana Khorkina
Russian gymnast and sportscaster
Born
January 19th, 1979 46 years ago
Achieved significant success in artistic gymnastics, competing at the highest levels in the sport. Won two Olympic gold medals in the all-around and balance beam events at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Dominated European championships, securing multiple titles and setting records. Transitioned into a successful career as a sportscaster after retiring from gymnastics, contributing to sports media coverage in Russia.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 8th
Christoph Ludwig Agricola
German painter of genre scenes
Born
November 5th, 1667 358 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1724 301 years ago — 56 years old
A painter active in the late 17th century, primarily worked in the genre style. Focused on depictions of everyday life, often showcasing varying social classes and activities. His works combined elements of realism with baroque influences. Contributed to the development of genre painting in the German artistic landscape.
Continue ReadingAlan Napier
English actor in 'Batman' series
Born
January 7th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1988 37 years ago — 85 years old
An English actor, celebrated for contributions to film and television. Best recognized for portraying Alfred Pennyworth in the 1960s television series 'Batman' alongside Adam West. Also featured in classic films such as 'The Lodger' and 'The Cat and the Canary.' Had a successful theater career, performing in numerous productions in London and New York.
Continue ReadingLeon Golub
American painter and academic
Born
January 23rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2004 21 years ago — 82 years old
An American artist focused on large-scale figurative painting. Emphasized themes of power, conflict, and violence through expressive styles. Featured works often criticized social and political issues. Served as a professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, influencing multiple generations of artists. Participated in numerous exhibitions and gained recognition in the art community for distinct visual language and provocative subject matter.
Continue ReadingFélix Leclerc
Canadian singer-songwriter and poet
Born
August 2nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1988 37 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in Canadian music and literature, contributions include original songs that blended folk and traditional styles. Active in the mid-20th century, gained popularity for lyrics reflecting the Quebec identity and culture. Also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television, while advocating for the French language and culture in Canada. Promoted Canadian culture through performances and writings, influencing subsequent generations of artists.
Continue ReadingAlexander William Doniphan
American lawyer and military colonel
Born
July 9th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1887 138 years ago — 79 years old
A lawyer and military officer, led the 1st Missouri Volunteer Cavalry Regiment during the Mexican-American War. Commanded the successful expedition to Santa Fe and captured the city of Chihuahua. Actively participated in the legal and political landscapes of Missouri, influencing various legislative matters. Continued practicing law after the war and engaged in public service.
Continue ReadingJacob Burckhardt
Historian of Renaissance culture
Born
May 25th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1897 128 years ago — 79 years old
An influential historian and academic specialized in cultural history, Burckhardt's work laid the foundation for modern historiography of the Renaissance. His seminal book, 'The Civilization of the Renaissance in Italy,' published in 1860, examined the social and cultural aspects of the era, emphasizing the importance of individualism and the role of art and culture in shaping society. Burckhardt's analyses extended beyond mere historical events, focusing on the psychological and cultural contexts of historical figures and movements. His methodologies and insights have left a lasting mark on the field of history and cultural studies.
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