J.P. Donleavy

Novelist, playwright, author of 'The Ginger Man'

J.P. Donleavy - Artists & Creatives born April 23rd, 1926
Born
Died

2017
8 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Ireland

Links & References

A novelist and playwright with roots in both American and Irish culture, contributed significantly to literature through works characterized by irreverent humor and exploration of human nature. Achieved recognition primarily for 'The Ginger Man', a controversial novel that faced initial publication challenges due to its content but later became a significant literary work. The figure's writing style combined rich prose with comedic elements, influencing subsequent generations of writers. Pursued the craft of playwrighting, creating works that reflect similar themes of absurdity and social commentary.

Authored 'The Ginger Man', published in 1955

Worked on various plays, including 'The Saddest Summer'

Published numerous novels throughout a successful career

Other People Born on April 23rd

Ali-Agha Shikhlinski

Russian-Azerbaijani general
Born
April 23rd, 1865 160 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1943 82 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1865, a prominent general in the Russian and Azerbaijani military history. Played a significant role during World War I and the subsequent Russian Civil War. Commanded troops with strategic acumen, leading various military operations that contributed to regional stability. Engaged in efforts to promote Azerbaijani independence during the tumultuous political climate of the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Jim Bottomley

Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
April 23rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1959 66 years ago — 59 years old

Played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball, most notably for the St. Louis Cardinals. Bottomley was recognized for his offensive skills and defensive prowess. Achieved significant success during his career, including winning the World Series in 1926. Transitioned to sportscasting after retiring from baseball, contributing insights and commentary on the game.

Continue Reading

James Buchanan

15th President of the United States
Born
April 23rd, 1791 234 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1868 157 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 15th President of the United States from 1857 to 1861. Held various political roles including serving as Secretary of State under President James K. Polk. Worked as a lawyer and represented Pennsylvania in the House of Representatives and the Senate. Actively involved in the Democratic Party and sought to maintain peace between the North and South prior to the Civil War.

Continue Reading

Max Planck

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1918
Born
April 23rd, 1858 167 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1947 78 years ago — 89 years old

A physicist contributed to the foundations of quantum theory, which revolutionized the understanding of atomic and subatomic processes. Planck introduced the concept of quantized energy levels, leading to the formulation of Planck's law of black-body radiation. This work earned a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1918. In addition to research, Planck served as a professor and held key academic positions in Germany during a period of significant scientific advancement.

Continue Reading

Tony Esposito

Ice hockey player and Hall of Famer
Born
April 23rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2021 4 years ago — 78 years old

A Canadian-American ice hockey player, coach, and manager played as a goaltender primarily for the Chicago Blackhawks in the NHL. Esposito was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1988, after a successful career that included winning the Vezina Trophy three times. He was part of the Blackhawks for a majority of his playing career and was instrumental in their playoff runs. Later transitioned to a coaching role and took on various management positions, contributing to the development of the sport in both Canada and the United States.

Continue Reading

Fritz Wotruba

Austrian sculptor of abstract forms
Born
April 23rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1975 50 years ago — 68 years old

Austrian sculptor contributed significantly to modern sculpture, primarily focusing on abstract forms. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. His work often explored themes of humanity and existence, incorporating geometric shapes and rough textures. Created notable public installations throughout Austria. The most recognized piece, 'The Monument to the Unknown Political Prisoner,' graces the city of Vienna. Worked with materials such as stone and concrete, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles. His contributions have been honored posthumously through exhibitions and retrospectives.

Continue Reading