Joseph Beuys

German sculptor and social sculptor

Joseph Beuys - German sculptor and social sculptor
Born

May 12th, 1921
103 years ago

Died

January 23rd, 1986
39 years ago — 64 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

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

Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury

Bengali writer and technologist.
Born
May 12th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed to Bengali literature through children's stories, essays, and translations. Authored the acclaimed children's magazine 'Sandesh', influencing young readers in Bengal. Engaged in painting and music as a violin player and composer. Developed various technological innovations and ran a successful printing press. Advocated for quality children's literature and education in Bengal during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Justus von Liebig

Chemist, developed fertilizers
Born
May 12th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1873 152 years ago — 69 years old

A German chemist and academic, contributed significantly to organic chemistry and agricultural science. Developed the concept of fertilizer and its importance for plant growth. Founded the first practical laboratory for teaching chemistry in 1824. His work laid the foundation for the agricultural revolution in Europe and helped in the scientific understanding of nutrition.

Continue Reading

Robert Baldwin

Canadian politician and lawyer
Born
May 12th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1858 166 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the third Premier of Canada West from 1848 to 1851. Played a significant role in the introduction of responsible government in Canada. Contributed to the establishment of public education in Canada West. Advocated for civil liberties and democratic reforms.

Continue Reading

Yogi Berra

Baseball player and coach with 10 titles
Born
May 12th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 2015 9 years ago — 90 years old

Played as a catcher for the New York Yankees from 1946 to 1963. Contributed to 10 World Series championships, establishing a record for the most titles by a player. Served as a coach and manager in Major League Baseball after retirement. Additionally, became a cultural icon with famous quotations and a distinct personality, making appearances in various media throughout his life.

Continue Reading

Steve Smith Sr.

American football wide receiver
Born
May 12th, 1979 45 years ago

Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for the Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens. Smith spent 13 seasons with the Panthers, becoming the franchise's all-time leading receiver. A five-time Pro Bowl selection, he was known for his exceptional speed and playmaking ability. Smith won Super Bowl 50 with the Ravens and finished his career with over 14,000 receiving yards, ranking among the all-time leaders in the league. His fierce competitiveness and leadership were noted throughout his career, earning him a reputation as one of the top receivers of his generation.

Continue Reading

Mark Thomas

British sprinter and Olympic athlete
Born
May 12th, 1965 59 years ago

A British sprinter specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, representing Great Britain. Achieved notable success in the 1990 Commonwealth Games, where earned a gold medal in the 4x100 meters relay. Also set multiple personal bests and participated in various international competitions during a career that spanned several years.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 23rd

Allen Collins

Guitarist and songwriter for Lynyrd Skynyrd
Born
July 19th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1990 35 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 Reading

Johannes Honter

Cartographer and theologian in Transylvania
Born
1498 527 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1549 476 years ago — 51 years old

A Romanian-Hungarian cartographer and theologian, this individual significantly contributed to the fields of geography and religious thought during the Renaissance. Primarily active in Transylvania, created influential works in cartography and published maps that were utilized in European studies. The printed maps played a crucial role in the dissemination of geographical knowledge. Also published theological works addressing Reformation ideas and contributing to religious discourse in the region. Engaged in teaching and promoting education in geography and theology, influencing future generations of scholars.

Continue Reading

Matthew Stewart

Scottish mathematician and academic
Born
1717 308 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1785 240 years ago — 68 years old

This mathematician specialized in mathematics and philosophy, contributing significantly to both fields. Stewart served as a professor of mathematics at the University of Edinburgh. His notable works include a comprehensive study on the applications of mathematics in various disciplines. He also authored 'The Elements of the Philosophy of the Human Mind', where he discussed the intersection of mathematics and human thought. His studies helped lay groundwork for future developments in both mathematics and analytic philosophy.

Continue Reading

Toots Shor

Restaurateur, founded Toots Shor's Restaurant
Born
May 6th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1977 48 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent restaurateur established a renowned restaurant in New York City, which became a social hub for celebrities and athletes. The eatery was celebrated for its lively atmosphere and impeccable service. Over the years, the restaurant attracted a diverse clientele that included many famous figures from the sports and entertainment industries. Its popularity contributed to the cultural fabric of mid-20th century New York dining, melding fine food with a vibrant social scene. The restaurant operated for several decades and became a gathering place for influential personalities.

Continue Reading

Edward Rutledge

Governor and Signer of the Declaration
Born
November 23rd, 1749 275 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1800 225 years ago — 50 years old

Served as the 39th Governor of South Carolina. Contributed to the formation of the United States by signing the Declaration of Independence. Played a role in the American Revolutionary War, particularly in organizing naval strategies against British forces. Participated in various political efforts to strengthen governance in South Carolina post-independence.

Continue Reading

Arthur Nikisch

Hungarian conductor and music educator
Born
October 12th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1922 103 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent conductor and music educator, contributed significantly to classical music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Served as the principal conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Directed world premieres of major works, including pieces by Richard Strauss and Gustav Mahler. Influenced the training of conductors and orchestral performance.

Continue Reading