John Hollander
Poet and literary critic with notable works
An American poet, critic, and educator contributed significantly to contemporary poetry and literary criticism. Published numerous collections of poetry including 'Fable' and 'The Picture Window'. Served as a professor at several esteemed institutions, including Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. Contributed articles and essays to major literary journals and was influential in shaping modern poetry's landscape through both creative work and critical analysis.
Published the poetry collection 'Fable'
Authored critical works on poetry and literature
Other People Born on October 28th
Hans Speidel
German general and military strategist
Born
October 28th, 1897 129 years ago
Died
1984 42 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1897, a German general served in both World Wars. Initially fought for Germany in World War I, later joined the Wehrmacht during World War II. Held key positions, including the commander of the 7th Army in France. Participated in planning for Operation Overlord but resisted Hitler’s orders to defend against the Allies. Played a role in the July 20 plot to assassinate Hitler, which was a failed attempt, leading to his arrest and imprisonment. After the war, contributed to the rebuilding of the German military and NATO.
Continue ReadingEdd Gould
Animator and founder of Eddsworld
Born
October 28th, 1988 38 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2012 14 years ago — 23 years old
An English animator and voice actor, developed the web cartoon series Eddsworld, which gained a substantial following on platforms like YouTube. The series featured a variety of comedic episodes with characters based on friends and real-life experiences. Gould's work combined simple animation with humor, leading to a significant online presence and influence in the animation community. He provided the voices for multiple characters in the series and was involved in the writing and animation processes until his passing in 2012.
Continue ReadingEliphalet Remington
American firearms manufacturer and founder
Born
October 28th, 1793 233 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1861 165 years ago — 67 years old
Founded Remington Arms Company in 1816, which became a major producer of firearms in the United States. The company initially started with manufacturing a single-shot rifle and evolved into producing a wide range of firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and ammunition. Remington Arms played a significant role in the American Civil War by supplying weapons to the Union Army. Over the years, the company established its reputation for durable and reliable products.
Continue ReadingZygmunt Florenty Wróblewski
Polish physicist and chemist
Born
October 28th, 1845 181 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1888 138 years ago — 42 years old
A pioneering physicist and chemist contributed significantly to the understanding of liquefaction of gases. Conducted important experiments on the liquefaction of oxygen and nitrogen, leading to advancements in low-temperature physics. Held a professorship at the University of Lviv and was involved in the establishment of the Lviv Scientific Society. Collaborated with notable scientists and was a key figure in the early development of cryogenics.
Continue ReadingJean-Marie Guyau
Philosopher and poet, noted for works
Born
October 28th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
1888 138 years ago — 34 years old
Contributions focused on aesthetics, ethics, and sociology. Authored significant philosophical texts including "L'Irréligion de l'avenir" and "Esquisse d'une sociologie." Developed ideas regarding the relationship between individual and society, addressing the concept of modern life. Explored themes of morality and the role of art in culture. His poetry also reflected philosophical interests, merging literary and intellectual pursuits.
Continue ReadingAuguste Escoffier
French chef and culinary author
Born
October 28th, 1846 180 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1935 91 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent chef and culinary writer, revolutionized French cuisine in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Developed classic dishes and refined cooking techniques, elevating culinary arts to a professional standard. Authored influential cookbooks, including 'Le Guide Culinaire,' which served as a cornerstone of modern cooking. Established the kitchen brigade system that organized kitchens into specialized roles, enhancing efficiency in culinary operations. Founded the renowned Savoy Hotel in London.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Ken Miles
Race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
November 1st, 1918 108 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1966 60 years ago — 47 years old
An English-American race car driver participated in numerous motorsport events during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Ford GT40, contributing significantly to its racing success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable victories in various sports car races, solidifying a reputation within the racing community for precision driving and engineering insight. His collaboration with Ford Racing led to innovative engineering solutions and a deep understanding of vehicle performance. Miles died in a testing accident in 1966, shortly before the completion of the Ford GT40's successful racing campaign.
Continue ReadingIoan Slavici
Romanian journalist and author
Born
January 18th, 1848 178 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1925 101 years ago — 77 years old
Born in Romania, a prominent journalist and author contributed significantly to Romanian literature. Played a crucial role in the development of realism in literature through notable works. His writings often focused on social issues and were deeply intertwined with Romanian cultural identity. Worked as an editor for important Romanian publications and advocated for education and the rights of the Romanian people. Several of his works remain influential in Romanian literature today.
Continue ReadingIra Gershwin
American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born
December 6th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1983 43 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.
Continue ReadingCharlotte Perkins Gilman
American sociologist and author
Born
July 3rd, 1860 166 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1935 91 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent sociologist and author, contributed significantly to discussions on gender roles and society. Best recognized for the story 'The Yellow Wallpaper', which critiques mental health treatment and women's oppression. Advocated for women's economic independence and social reform through writings and lectures. Published influential works, including 'Women and Economics', which argued for women's financial autonomy.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Leonhard
German historian and author
Born
April 16th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2014 12 years ago — 93 years old
A German historian and author focused on the history of communism and the Eastern Bloc. Born in 1921, early experiences in the USSR influenced later scholarly work. Emigrated to West Germany in 1948, contributing to the understanding of East Germany and communism in Europe. Wrote extensively, with significant titles including 'The War Within the German Communist Party' and 'Child of the Revolution'.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Zia-ul-Haq
Pakistani general and politician
Born
August 12th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 38 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the sixth President of Pakistan from 1978 until his death in 1988. Initially took power through a military coup in 1977, establishing martial law and assuming the position of Chief Martial Law Administrator. Implemented policies that facilitated the Islamization of Pakistan's legal and societal structures. Oversaw significant political and economic changes, and his tenure was marked by efforts to increase the role of Islamic law in governance. Died in an airplane crash in 1988, which was highly controversial and led to various conspiracy theories.
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