John Smith
Scottish lawyer and Shadow Chancellor
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Scotland
Links & References
A Scottish lawyer and politician served as the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer. Participated in the Labour Party's campaigns during the 1980s and 1990s. Elected as the Member of Parliament for the relevant constituency and became a significant figure in UK politics during tenure. Advocated for various economic policies and addressed issues concerning public spending and taxation.
Served as Shadow Chancellor from 1992 to 1994
Elected as MP for Monaghan in 1970
Other People Born on September 13th
Mel Tormé
Singer-songwriter and actor with jazz acclaim
Born
September 13th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1999 26 years ago — 73 years old
An influential figure in the world of music and entertainment, this individual gained prominence as a jazz singer, songwriter, and actor. Beginning a career in the 1940s, contributions to the genre included the co-composition of the holiday classic 'The Christmas Song.' In addition to musical accomplishments, this person enjoyed a successful acting career, notably appearing in episodes of 'The Dick Cavett Show' and 'Will & Grace.' The versatility in performances spanned various genres, retaining a lasting legacy in American music and television.
Continue ReadingArnold Schoenberg
Austrian composer and painter
Born
September 13th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1951 74 years ago — 76 years old
One of the leading figures in modern classical music, a contribution included the development of the twelve-tone technique. Active during the early to mid-20th century, composed significant works across various genres including opera, chamber music, and orchestral pieces. His most notable works include the operas 'Pierrot Lunaire' and 'Moses and Aaron', as well as the orchestral piece 'Verklaerte Nacht'. Alongside composition, engaged in painting, which reflected similar modernist approaches as his music.
Continue ReadingKevin Carter
South African photojournalist with Pulitzer
Born
September 13th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1994 31 years ago — 33 years old
A South African photojournalist gained recognition for powerful photographic documentation of humanitarian crises. The work captured in coverage of the famine in Sudan in 1993 led to a Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography. This photograph depicted a starving child and a vulture waiting nearby, striking a chord globally and raising awareness regarding the dire situation in the country. The profound impact of this image on public consciousness remains significant as it highlighted the severe effects of famine and conflict. His career included contributions to various publications, emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling in journalism.
Continue ReadingRoald Dahl
British novelist and screenwriter
Born
September 13th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1990 35 years ago — 74 years old
This individual authored numerous children's books, achieving significant popularity for their imaginative storytelling and unique characters. Notable works include 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', 'Matilda', and 'The BFG'. Dahl's storytelling often incorporates elements of fantasy and dark humor. His contributions extended to screenwriting, with adaptations of his stories for film and television. The literary style captivated audiences worldwide, establishing a legacy within the realm of children's literature.
Continue ReadingEmile Francis
Canadian ice hockey coach and manager
Born
September 13th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 96 years old
Played as a professional ice hockey player before transitioning to coaching and management. Coached the New York Rangers and spent multiple seasons in the role. Managed various teams in the NHL, contributing to player development and team strategy. His influence extended beyond the ice, fostering a culture of mentorship within the sport.
Continue ReadingAndreas Biermann
German footballer and defender
Born
September 13th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 33 years old
A German footballer, primarily played as a defender. Started his professional career with FC Energie Cottbus, making significant contributions to the team's defense. Later played for FC St. Pauli and Eintracht Braunschweig, appearing in various league matches. His playing style was characterized by strong defensive skills and tactical awareness. Retired from professional football to transition into coaching.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Anselme Payen
French chemist and academic
Born
January 6th, 1795 231 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1878 147 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 ReadingFrancis Hughes
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 28th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 25 years old
Born in 1956, a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, actively participated in the struggle for Northern Ireland's unification with the Republic of Ireland. Engaged in a hunger strike in 1981 in Maze Prison, demanding political status for IRA prisoners. The hunger strike lasted 59 days, ultimately leading to his death. His actions and sacrifice became emblematic of the wider conflict during this period.
Continue ReadingCornell Borchers
Lithuanian-German actress and singer
Born
March 16th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
Born in Lithuania, a prominent actress and singer emerged in post-World War II Germany. Initial performances were concentrated in theater, later transitioning to film. Gained recognition for roles in films during the 1950s, particularly featured in "The Tenth Victim" and "The Man Who Knew Too Much". Contributions extended to music, where performances included popular songs that resonated with audiences across Europe. Active in both fields throughout her life, left a legacy of artistic works appreciated in both theater and cinema.
Continue ReadingLouis Calhern
American actor in classic films
Born
February 19th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1956 69 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 ReadingMartin Lings
Author and scholar of Islamic studies
Born
January 24th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent English author and scholar specialized in Islamic studies and spirituality. Worked as a lecturer at the University of London, contributing significantly to the field of religious and spiritual literature. His interpretation of Islamic teachings and Sufi poetry has garnered attention and respect within academic circles. Authored several notable works, including a well-regarded biography of the Prophet Muhammad titled 'Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources'. Lings' writings were rooted in a deep understanding of Islamic traditions and aimed to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western perspectives.
Continue ReadingLucas Achtschellinck
Belgian painter and educator
Born
January 16th, 1626 400 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1699 326 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1626, this individual became a significant figure in the art world through both painting and educational contributions. Specialized in the technique of grisaille, which imitates sculpture through painting, gained recognition for works that displayed mastery in depicting light and shadow. Held a prominent position in the educational sector, influencing a generation of artists and educators through detailed instruction in the aspects of painting and drawing.
Continue Reading