Kate Chopin

American author of The Awakening

Kate Chopin - American author of The Awakening
Born

February 8th, 1850
175 years ago

Died

August 22nd, 1904
120 years ago — 54 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Significant contributions to literature occurred through the exploration of women's issues and identity in the late 19th century. Noteworthy works include 'The Awakening', which examined the constraints of motherhood and marriage. Other stories, such as 'The Story of an Hour' and 'Desiree's Baby', delved into themes of freedom and racial identity, reflecting the complexities of Southern life.

Authored 'The Awakening'

'The Story of an Hour' highlighted individuality

'Desiree's Baby' explored racial identity

Other People Born on February 8th

Charles-Jean-François Hénault

French historian and author of works
Born
February 8th, 1685 340 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1770 254 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1685, a prominent French historian and author contributed significantly to the understanding of French history. Authored influential texts that provided a detailed analysis of French royal history and governance. His most notable work, 'Chronologie de l’histoire de France', served as a comprehensive outline of events shaping France across centuries, blending narrative and critical analysis. His academic pursuits set a foundation for future historical discourse in France.

Continue Reading

Mary Steenburgen

American actress, won Academy Award
Born
February 8th, 1953 72 years ago

An American actress, born in 1953, has built a career in film and television spanning several decades. Gained prominence in the 1980s with roles in films such as 'Melvin and Howard' and 'Parenthood'. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Melvin and Howard'. Appeared in various television series, including '30 Rock' and 'The Last Man on Earth'. Has also worked as a producer and songwriter.

Continue Reading

Greta Keller

Singer and actress in musical theater
Born
February 8th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Austria, a singer and actress emerged in the early 20th century. Gained prominence in Europe before relocating to the United States. Achieved significant success on Broadway and in Hollywood, particularly with notable performances in musical theater. Recorded numerous songs and became a prominent figure in cabaret scenes, showcasing a wide vocal range.

Continue Reading

Agrippa d'Aubigné

French poet and soldier with epic poetry
Born
February 8th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1630 395 years ago — 78 years old

Born in France in the 16th century, this individual gained recognition as a poet and a soldier during the religious wars. His literary contribution includes the epic poem 'Les Tragiques', which reflects the turbulent times and the impact of wars on society. The poet spent a significant part of his life in military service, fighting for the Huguenots. His experiences in battles and the social landscape deeply influenced his writing, providing a rich commentary on the conflicts of the era. His works not only showcase his poetic skill but also document the historical context of the time.

Continue Reading

Javi García

Professional footballer and midfielder
Born
February 8th, 1987 38 years ago

A Spanish footballer played as a midfielder, primarily for clubs in Spain and England. Started professional career with Real Madrid B and later played for the first team of Real Madrid. Transferred to clubs such as Osasuna and Manchester City. Contributed to Manchester City's Premier League title win in the 2011-2012 season. Furthermore, participated in top-tier leagues and cup competitions during a career spanning over a decade.

Continue Reading

John Williams

Composer of iconic film scores
Born
February 8th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1983 42 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1932, this American composer, conductor, and pianist created some of the most recognizable film scores in cinematic history. Achievements include scoring blockbuster films such as 'Star Wars,' 'Jaws,' 'Indiana Jones,' and 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.' His music often became integral to the films themselves, enhancing their emotional resonance. In addition to film scores, several concert works and arrangements have been composed, demonstrating a wide-ranging musical talent. Recipient of multiple Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and other accolades, this composer has achieved legendary status in the film industry throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 22nd

Michael J. C. Gordon

British Computer Scientist and Researcher
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2017 7 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of computer science, focusing on programming languages, systems, and verification. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge and played a key role in the development of the Occam programming language. His work in automated theorem proving was influential in formal verification, particularly in the context of concurrent systems. Engaged in research that bridged theoretical frameworks and practical applications, benefiting both academia and industry.

Continue Reading

Döme Sztójay

Hungarian general and Prime Minister
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1946 78 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the 35th Prime Minister of Hungary during World War II, overseeing the government's collaboration with Axis forces. Sztójay was a general before entering politics and held a significant position in the Hungarian Army. After the war, faced charges of war crimes for actions taken while in office, ultimately leading to his execution in 1946.

Continue Reading

Gregory Goodwin Pincus

Biologist, co-created the birth-control pill
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1967 57 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent biologist and academic contributed significantly to reproductive biology. Co-developed the oral contraceptive pill in collaboration with Margaret Sanger and John Rock, which played a crucial role in women's health and family planning. Established the Pincus Method, a pioneering approach in the study of reproductive hormones. Pincus also held academic positions at institutions such as Harvard University and Boston University, focusing on the intersection of biology and medicine.

Continue Reading

Stilicho

Roman general and statesman
Died
August 22nd, 408 1616 years ago — None years old

Stilicho served as a general for the Western Roman Empire during the late 4th and early 5th centuries. Born in 359, Stilicho rose to prominence under Emperor Honorius. He played a crucial role in defending the empire against barbarian invasions, particularly from the Visigoths led by Alaric. Stilicho's military strategies and leadership were instrumental in several key battles during his service. However, his influence also fostered political rivalry, leading to accusations of treason and his eventual execution in 408. His legacy marked a significant period in the history of Rome as the empire faced increasing threats from outside forces.

Continue Reading

William Warham

Archbishop of Canterbury, adviser to Henry VIII
Born
1450 575 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1532 492 years ago — 82 years old

Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1503 until death in 1532. Played a significant role in the politics of the early Tudor period, particularly in the reign of Henry VIII. Actively involved in the administration of the church and state, Warham sought to maintain the traditional authority of the church during a time of great upheaval. Participated in diplomatic missions to Rome and had influence over key church appointments. Worked towards reforming the church, focusing on educational improvements in the clergy and promoting the importance of ethics in ecclesiastical life.

Continue Reading

Grace Paley

Short story writer and poet, influential voice
Born
December 11th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2007 17 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent short story writer and poet, contributed significantly to American literature. Published several collections of stories, including 'The Little Disturbances of Man' and 'Here and Somewhere Else.' Wrote poetry that often reflected social themes and personal experiences. Worked as an activist supporting anti-war and feminist causes, intertwining literary work with social justice.

Continue Reading