Karlheinz Deschner

German author and activist against religion

Karlheinz Deschner - German author and activist against religion
Born

May 23rd, 1924
101 years ago

Died

April 8th, 2014
11 years ago — 89 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Germany

Links & References

A prolific author and activist, contributions spanned literature and religious critique. Published a comprehensive multi-volume work, 'Geschichte der Christlichen Misstände', providing critical analysis of Christianity throughout history. Wrote numerous essays and books focusing on religion, ethics, and society. Engaged in activism against the influence of religious institutions on public life.

Authored 'Geschichte der Christlichen Misstände'

Critiqued the influence of religion in society

Other People Born on May 23rd

Scott Raynor

American drummer from Blink-182
Born
May 23rd, 1978 47 years ago

Started drumming at a young age and joined the pop-punk band Blink-182 in 1992. Contributed to the band's rise in popularity during the 1990s with albums such as 'Dude Ranch' and 'Enema of the State'. Departed from the band in 1998, focusing on other musical projects. Played with various other bands throughout his career while continuing to be involved in the music scene.

Continue Reading

Drew Carey

Game show host and actor, 'The Price Is Right'
Born
May 23rd, 1958 67 years ago

An American actor, game show host, and entrepreneur, this individual gained prominence with the sitcom 'The Drew Carey Show', which aired from 1995 to 2004. The show showcased the comedic life of a blue-collar worker in Cleveland. Transitioning into game shows, became the host of 'The Price Is Right' in 2007, succeeding Bob Barker. This role further solidified a career in entertainment. In addition to work in television, involvement in various projects in the gaming and business sectors was evident.

Continue Reading

Jules Dumont d'Urville

French Admiral and Antarctic Explorer
Born
May 23rd, 1790 235 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1842 183 years ago — 51 years old

An admiral and explorer, contributed to the understanding of the Antarctic region and the Pacific Ocean. Commanded several voyages, with notable expeditions aboard the Astrolabe and Zélée between 1837 and 1840. Played a significant role in the early exploration of Australasia and the South Pole, mapping numerous territories and introducing advancements in scientific exploration methodologies.

Continue Reading

Martin McGuinness

Irish republican leader and politician
Born
May 23rd, 1950 75 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2017 8 years ago — 66 years old

Held the position of deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland from 2007 to 2017. Played a key role in the peace process, contributing to the negotiation of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Served as a member of the Legislative Assembly for the Derry constituency and was a senior figure in the Sinn Féin party. Engaged in various political discussions and initiatives aimed at improving community relations in Northern Ireland.

Continue Reading

Wim Stroetinga

Cyclist and endurance racing champion
Born
May 23rd, 1985 40 years ago

Competed in road cycling and track cycling, achieving recognition in endurance events. Specialized in the points race and won multiple national championships. Represented the Netherlands at international competitions and participated in prestigious races, demonstrating strong performance and consistency across various cycling formats.

Continue Reading

William VI

Landgrave of Hesse-Kassel
Born
May 23rd, 1629 396 years ago
Died
1663 362 years ago — 34 years old

A noble from Hesse-Kassel, held significant territorial influence in the Holy Roman Empire. Governed during a turbulent period marked by the Thirty Years' War. Engaged in various political and military strategies to consolidate power. His reign played a role in shaping regional politics as well as alliances. The legacy includes contributions to the governance of Hesse-Kassel and its administration.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 8th

John Frederick Coots

American pianist and composer of songs
Born
May 2nd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1985 40 years ago — 87 years old

Coots was an American pianist and composer active primarily in the early to mid-20th century. He is recognized for his contributions to popular music during this period, having composed numerous songs that gained widespread popularity. One of his most notable works is the holiday classic 'Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town,' which has been performed by various artists and remains a staple of Christmas music. In addition to this hit, he was involved in the production of a variety of other compositions that contributed to the musical landscape of his time.

Continue Reading

Hiob Ludolf

German orientalist and philologist
Born
June 15th, 1624 401 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1704 321 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Ethiopia and its languages. Published a comprehensive dictionary of the Ethiopic language, establishing foundational work in the field of Semitic languages. Conducted extensive studies on Ethiopian history and culture, promoting the understanding of this area in Europe. Engaged in scholarly correspondence with notable figures of the time, further advancing knowledge in orientalist studies.

Continue Reading

Jayakanthan

Indian journalist and author
Born
April 24th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
April 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old

An Indian journalist and author, contributed significantly to Tamil literature. Produced a vast body of work, including novels, short stories, and essays. Explored themes of social justice, politics, and the human condition through a regional lens. Dedicating over five decades to writing and journalism. Played a vital role in stimulating public discourse regarding socio-political issues in India. Received numerous awards for literary contributions, solidifying a prominent place in Tamil literary tradition.

Continue Reading

Antony Flew

Philosopher and academic on atheism
Born
February 11th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 8th, 2010 15 years ago — 87 years old

Significant contributions to philosophy included discussions on atheism and belief in God. Authored influential works such as 'God and Philosophy' and 'The presumption of atheism.' Flew's philosophical inquiries focused on the nature of language and the philosophy of science. Later in life, he caused considerable debate by announcing a change in belief towards deism, arguing for a rational basis for belief in a divine creator.

Continue Reading

Jean-Claude Turcotte

Canadian cardinal and Archbishop
Born
June 26th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
April 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old

Served as cardinal and Archbishop of Montreal, playing a significant role in the Roman Catholic Church in Canada. Ordained as a priest in 1963, became an auxiliary bishop in 1982, and later appointed as archbishop in 1990. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2003 by Pope John Paul II. Participated in the 2005 papal conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI. Conducted various pastoral and community initiatives during tenure, addressing social issues and promoting the church's mission.

Continue Reading

Gerard Reve

Dutch author known for 'The Evenings'
Born
December 14th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
April 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 82 years old

An influential Dutch author and poet, this individual made significant contributions to Dutch literature. Born in 1923, the individual published several novels, with 'The Evenings' (De Avonden) being the most acclaimed. The book, a coming-of-age story, depicts life during the post-World War II period in the Netherlands and has been praised for its unique narrative style and exploration of existential themes. The individual received multiple prestigious awards throughout the career, solidifying a prominent place in Dutch literary history.

Continue Reading