Joseph Beuys
German sculptor and social sculptor
A sculptor and painter, focused on the concept of social sculpture and the role of art in society. Developed unique techniques and theories, emphasizing the connection between creativity and social change. Contributed to the Fluxus movement in the 1960s and engaged in various performances that incorporated materials like fat and felt, highlighting his belief in transformation and healing. Participated in political activism, advocating for democracy and environmental causes. Established the Free International University for Creativity and Interdisciplinary Research in 1973.
Pioneering the concept of social sculpture
Engaging in political activism and performance art
Contributing to the Fluxus movement
Other People Born on May 12th
Orélie-Antoine de Tounens
French lawyer and explorer of Patagonia
Born
May 12th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1878 147 years ago — 53 years old
An individual embarked on an expedition to Patagonia in the mid-19th century. This journey led to the proclamation of a short-lived kingdom, the Kingdom of Araucania and Patagonia, in 1860. His ambitions included establishing a constitutional monarchy in the region, with himself as king. Despite facing significant challenges and resistance from Chile and Argentina, efforts to gain international recognition continued. The exploration involved territorial claims and interactions with indigenous groups, aiming to advocate for their rights and develop the region. The kingdom's existence was largely symbolic and did not achieve official recognition from foreign powers, but the venture remains a unique chapter in the history of exploration in South America.
Continue ReadingEmily VanCamp
Canadian actress, starred in 'Revenge'
Born
May 12th, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, an actress gained prominence in the television series 'Everwood' as Amy Abbott. Later starred in the ABC series 'Revenge' as Emily Thorne, portraying a woman seeking vengeance against those who wronged her father. Featured in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, specifically as Sharon Carter in 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' and 'Captain America: Civil War'. Significant television roles in 'The Resident' and 'Brothers & Sisters' have contributed to a successful acting career.
Continue ReadingJason Biggs
Actor and comedian from American Pie
Born
May 12th, 1978 47 years ago
Born in 1978, an actor and comedian gained recognition for roles in film and television. Gained widespread popularity for the character Jim Levenstein in the American Pie film series. Appeared in multiple sequels, including American Pie 2 and American Reunion. Featured in the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, portraying Larry Bloom. Also voiced a character in the animated series Nerds and featured in the sitcom Mad Love.
Continue ReadingRishi Sunak
British politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 12th, 1980 45 years ago
Held the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer from February 2020 to July 2022. Played a significant role in the government during the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing measures such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to support businesses and workers. Assumed office as Prime Minister in October 2022, focusing on economic stability and public services. Received education from prestigious institutions including Oxford and Stanford, contributing to the political landscape in the United Kingdom. Emphasized fiscal policies and economic reforms during tenure.
Continue ReadingLance Lynn
Baseball pitcher, 2015 All-Star
Born
May 12th, 1987 38 years ago
A prominent participant in Major League Baseball, played primarily as a pitcher. Played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago White Sox, and Texas Rangers. Achieved significant success during tenure with the Cardinals, including winning the World Series in 2011. Selected as an All-Star in 2015, showcasing impressive skills on the mound. Known for resilience and durability, contributing to team performances across multiple seasons.
Continue ReadingKostas Tsimikas
Greek footballer and Liverpool defender
Born
May 12th, 1996 29 years ago
A professional footballer, he plays as a left-back for Liverpool in the English Premier League. Tsimikas began his career at Olympiacos, where he won multiple Super League titles. He established himself as a key player, contributing significantly during his time at the club. In 2020, he joined Liverpool. He secured his first major trophy with Liverpool, winning the FA Cup in 2022. Tsimikas has represented Greece internationally, participating in various UEFA competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 23rd
Nell Carter
American actress and singer
Born
September 13th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2003 23 years ago — 54 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, celebrated for a prominent role in the musical 'Ain't Misbehavin''. Achievements in television included starring in the sitcom 'Gimme a Break!', which aired from 1981 to 1987. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her performance in 'Ain't Misbehavin'', which showcased her powerful vocal talent and acting skills. Worked on various stages, earning acclaim for both dramatic and musical performances.
Continue ReadingMaurice Meisner
American historian and author
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2012 14 years ago — 81 years old
An influential historian and academic, contributed significantly to the study of Chinese history and the intellectual history of Marxism. Authored several important texts, including 'Marxism, Maoism, and the Chinese Revolution' and 'The Rise of Chinese Communism', providing critical insights into Chinese political movements and their historical context. Served as a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where the study of China became a central focus. His scholarship was recognized for its depth and expertise in addressing complex subjects within Chinese history and politics.
Continue ReadingAllen Collins
Guitarist and songwriter for Lynyrd Skynyrd
Born
July 19th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1990 36 years ago — 37 years old
Played guitar and co-wrote many songs for the rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Contributed significantly to their sound and success during the 1970s, participating in the creation of iconic tracks. Survived a plane crash in 1977 that claimed the lives of several band members. After the tragedy, continued to perform and record with various bands until health issues arose.
Continue ReadingCharles Kingsley
English priest and author of 'Westward Ho!'
Born
June 12th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1875 151 years ago — 55 years old
An English priest and author contributed significantly to Victorian literature. Writings included novels, poetry, and theological works. 'Westward Ho!', published in 1855, became popular for its adventurous narrative. Also involved in social reform and education, emphasizing the importance of moral values in society. Belonged to the Church of England and served as a canon to Westminster. Engaged with issues of the working class, advocating for charitable actions and better living conditions.
Continue ReadingBob Keeshan
Television presenter of 'Captain Kangaroo'
Born
June 27th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2004 22 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent television personality and producer, Keeshan created and starred in the educational children's program 'Captain Kangaroo', which aired for nearly 30 years. The show provided entertainment along with educational content for young audiences, fostering an environment of learning through fun characters and stories. Keeshan's work in television began at a young age, and over the decades, he became a trusted figure for generations of children and parents alike. In addition to 'Captain Kangaroo', Keeshan was involved in various philanthropic efforts that focused on children's education and well-being.
Continue ReadingE. Howard Hunt
CIA officer and Watergate figure
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2007 19 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a covert operations officer in the Central Intelligence Agency. Played a significant role in several operations during the Cold War, particularly in Latin America. Involved in the Watergate scandal, which led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. Authored several books, both fiction and non-fiction, regarding his experiences in intelligence and espionage.
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