Josef Škvorecký
Czech-Canadian author and publisher

Born
September 27th, 1924
100 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2012
13 years ago — 87 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Canada
Links & References
An author and publisher, this individual played a significant role in the literary landscape of the Czech Republic and Canada. Emigration to Canada occurred in the 1960s, where contributions to literature continued. Notable works include 'The Cowards' and 'Mirrors of My Soul', reflecting on personal and cultural themes. Also, this individual co-founded a publishing house that focused on promoting Czech literature and aiding expatriated authors.
Wrote 'The Cowards'
Published 'Mirrors of My Soul'
Co-founded a Czech publishing house
Other People Born on September 27th
Henri-Frédéric Amiel
Born in Geneva, this philosopher, poet, and critic became significant in the 19th century for contributions to literature and philosophy. Amiel wrote extensively, with notable works in aesthetics and spiritual reflection. His most famous work, 'Journal Intime', published posthumously, provides deep insights into his thoughts on life, existence, and the human condition. This work reflects on personal experiences, societal norms, and philosophical inquiries, revealing a complex inner world. Amiel was influenced by various philosophical movements and engaged with contemporary thought, linking personal introspection to broader philosophical themes.
Continue ReadingMilton Subotsky
Co-founded Amicus Productions, a British film production company that became prominent for creating a successful series of horror films during the 1960s and 1970s. Contributed as a screenwriter and producer for notable works including 'Dr. Terror's House of Horrors' and 'The Vault of Horror'. The company specialized in anthology films that highlighted several horror stories in one film, which gained a cult following. Worked alongside key figures in the horror genre and influenced the style of British horror cinema.
Continue ReadingJack Goldstein
An influential figure in the development of conceptual art during the 1970s. Worked primarily in the medium of painting but also explored film and installation. Played a significant role in the California artist scene and became a prominent member of the Fluxus movement. Goldstein's works often engaged with the themes of representation and illusion within art. Contributed to the shift towards postmodernist aesthetics with a focus on self-reflexivity and the nature of the medium.
Continue ReadingMichel Rivard
Born in 1951, this Canadian performer gained prominence in the music scene through a combination of poignant lyrics and melodic compositions. Early in the career, involvement with the folk music movement laid the groundwork for further exploration into various musical styles. A notable contribution was the hit song "L'Affaire Christine", which became emblematic of the artist's unique sound. The artist's work has often featured themes of love and social commentary, resonating with a broad audience across Canada and beyond.
Continue ReadingBud Powell
An influential figure in the development of bebop, significant contributions included innovative harmonies and improvisational techniques. Played a central role in the evolution of jazz piano through collaborations with prominent musicians. His original compositions, including 'Un Poco Loco' and 'Dance of the Infidels', have become jazz standards and are frequently performed. Affected by personal challenges, remained active in the jazz scene, maintaining a distinctive style that inspired generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingBhagat Singh
Born in 1907, this revolutionary emerged as a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. Advocated for socialism and the rights of workers, aiming to liberate India from British rule. Engaged in several acts of protest, including the iconic assembly bombing in 1929, which led to his arrest. Despite being incarcerated, continued to influence the movement through writings and hunger strikes. Executed in 1931 at the age of 23, became a martyr for the cause of freedom in India.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 3rd
Alexander Gretchaninov
A prominent Russian-American pianist and composer, contributed extensively to choral music in the early 20th century. Studied at the Royal Conservatory in St. Petersburg and later emigrated to the United States. Composed numerous choral and orchestral works that combined Russian folk elements with Western classical traditions. Served as a music educator and influenced many students throughout his career. Collaborated with various musicians and composers, further enriching the American classical music scene.
Continue ReadingJeremiah Horrocks
An English astronomer and mathematician contributed to early studies of astronomy. Developed methods to calculate the positions of celestial bodies and predicted the transit of Venus across the Sun, which occurred on December 4, 1639. Published observations that advanced understanding of planetary motions and contributed to the field of celestial mechanics. His work laid groundwork for future astronomers and influenced Renaissance scientific thought.
Continue ReadingVicar
An influential Chilean cartoonist specialized in humor and satire. Worked for several national and international publications and became a prominent figure in the Latin American cartooning scene. Contributed to various iconic Chilean humor magazines, where political and social satire flourished during the country's tumultuous periods. Collaborated with well-known artists and maintained a legacy of sharp wit through powerful imagery and narratives until passing away in 2012.
Continue ReadingJuan Rodríguez Cabrillo
An explorer and navigator, he is recognized for being the first European to set foot on the West Coast of the present-day United States. Cabrillo embarked on an expedition along the coast of California in 1542, charting the coastline and establishing contact with indigenous peoples. His journey contributed to the Spanish exploration of the Pacific and laid the groundwork for further exploration. The details of his life and accomplishments remained largely unrecorded after his death in 1543, but his legacy as an early explorer endures.
Continue ReadingFujiwara no Michinaga
A prominent nobleman during the Heian period in Japan, focused on consolidating power within the imperial court. Served as regent to several emperors and played a key role in the political structure of the time. Notable for establishing the Fujiwara clan's dominance and effectively controlling imperial affairs through marriage ties and influence. His tenure marked a significant period in the history of the Japanese aristocracy.
Continue ReadingDes Corcoran
Served as the 37th Premier of South Australia from 1982 to 1983. Held the position of leader of the South Australian Labor Party during a significant period of political change. Focused on public health, education, and economic issues during tenure in office. Prior to premiership, contributed to local governance in various capacities.
Continue Reading