Judith Viorst
American journalist and children's author
A journalist and author, contributions included children's literature and adult fiction. Most recognized for the 'Alexander' book series. Also authored several poignant works for adults, reflecting on family and personal experiences. Possessed a notable career in journalism, writing for publications like The New York Times. Authored numerous poems and essays, many included in anthologies.
Authored the 'Alexander and the Terrible, No Good, Very Bad Day'
Wrote numerous essays for The New York Times
Other People Born on February 2nd
Ulrik of Denmark
Danish prince-bishop and noble
Born
February 2nd, 1611 414 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1624 401 years ago — 13 years old
Born in 1611, served as a prince-bishop in Denmark. Held the title of Prince-Bishop of Schleswig from 1622 to 1634. Played a significant role in the church and regional governance during the early 17th century. Engaged in ecclesiastical matters and contributed to the administration of the diocesan territory. His tenure was marked by efforts to manage church properties and local affairs amid the complexities of noble politics.
Continue ReadingPiotr Skarga
Polish writer and influential preacher
Born
February 2nd, 1536 489 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1612 413 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the 16th century, played a significant role in the Polish Reformation. Authored numerous religious and moralistic works, most notably 'Żywoty Świętych' (Lives of the Saints), which included biographies of saints and served as a key text in Polish spirituality. Also contributed to the Jesuit establishment in Poland, advocating for education and moral reform. His writings reflected the cultural and religious landscape of his time, influencing Polish literature and religious thought.
Continue ReadingGamal Hamdan
Egyptian geographer and scholar
Born
February 2nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1993 32 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of geography, focusing on the Arab world and particularly Egypt. Authored several influential works, including 'The Character of Egypt', which explores the geography, history, and culture of Egypt. Engaged in extensive research that examined the relationship between geography and society, influencing subsequent studies in the region. Also served as a professor at Cairo University, where many students studied geography under his guidance.
Continue ReadingHoward Deering Johnson
Businessman and founder of Howard Johnson's
Born
February 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 75 years old
Founded the Howard Johnson's restaurant and hotel chain, creating a brand associated with comfort food and family dining in America. Established a distinctive franchise system that became influential in the hospitality industry. The first location opened in 1925 in Quincy, Massachusetts, expanding to over a thousand locations across the United States and Canada at its peak. Contributed to the popularization of roadside dining and lodging with consistent branding and menu offerings.
Continue ReadingMary-Dell Chilton
Chemist and pioneer of plant biotechnology
Born
February 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Contributions to plant biotechnology include the development of techniques for genetic engineering of plants. Played a significant role in the advent of recombinant DNA technology in plants. Co-founded a notable biotechnology company that further advanced agricultural science. Received many awards for groundbreaking work that established new methodologies in the field.
Continue ReadingMakar Yekmalyan
Armenian composer, esteemed for choral works
Born
February 2nd, 1856 169 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1905 120 years ago — 49 years old
Born in 1856, a composer focused on choral music and influenced by Armenian folk traditions. Education at the Yerevan Church Choir School laid the foundation for a career emphasizing the revival of Armenian musical heritage. Composed various religious works, symphonies, and songs which contributed to the cultural landscape of Armenia. Active throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasized the importance of Armenian spirituality and identity in music.
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