Ken Saro-Wiwa
Nigerian author and environmental activist
An author and environmental activist focused on the plight of the Ogoni people in Nigeria. Founded the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) to fight against environmental degradation caused by oil extraction. Wrote numerous works that highlighted social injustices, including 'Sozaboy,' a novel that captures the experiences of the Nigerian Civil War. Advocated for the rights of his community, leading to international attention on the adverse effects of oil exploitation in the Niger Delta. Executed in 1995 after a controversial trial, sparking global outrage and calls for justice for the Ogoni.
Founded the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People
Wrote 'Sozaboy', a notable novel
Executed in 1995, provoking international outrage
Other People Born on October 10th
Chris Penn
American actor in 'Reservoir Dogs'
Born
October 10th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
2006 20 years ago — 41 years old
An American actor, recognized for work in film and television. Gained significant attention for roles in 'Reservoir Dogs' and 'Footloose'. Participated in several other projects that contributed to a steady acting career throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Also appeared in series including 'The Prince of Pennsylvania'. His performances demonstrated a range of characters across different genres. Worked in both independent films and mainstream cinema, contributing to a notable acting portfolio until passing in 2006.
Continue ReadingHarold Pinter
Playwright and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 10th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2008 17 years ago — 78 years old
A significant figure in modern theatre, a playwright, screenwriter, and director contributed to the evolution of dramatic literature. Works include 'The Birthday Party', 'The Homecoming', and 'The Caretaker', which reflect the nuances of human relationships and the intricacies of language. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2005, recognizing an outstanding career that changed the landscape of modern drama. Played a key role in the Theatre of the Absurd movement, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and communication through sharp dialogue and minimalist staging.
Continue ReadingTommy Fine
Baseball player and businessman
Born
October 10th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 91 years old
Played professional baseball as a pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Philadelphia Athletics. Made his Major League debut in 1938. Transitioned to a successful career in business after retiring from baseball. Contributed to the development of various local enterprises following sports career.
Continue ReadingIda Wüst
German actress and screenwriter
Born
October 10th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1958 67 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1884, this actress and screenwriter made significant contributions to German cinema. Wüst appeared in numerous films during the early and mid-20th century. Her career includes work in silent films and the transition to talkies, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Besides acting, Wüst also engaged in screenwriting, highlighting her creative talents. She left a lasting legacy in the film industry before passing away in 1955.
Continue ReadingJean-Antoine Watteau
French painter of Rococo era
Born
October 10th, 1684 341 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1721 304 years ago — 36 years old
A French painter, associated with the Rococo style, contributed significantly to the development of genre painting. His works are characterized by their delicate color palette and playful themes, often depicting scenes of fête galante, which portray elegantly dressed figures in idyllic landscapes. Created masterpieces such as 'Pierrot' and 'L' Assemblée,' showcasing a unique blend of theatricality and spontaneity. Watteau's innovative approach to painting paved the way for future artists, influencing the stylistic direction of 18th-century art in France.
Continue ReadingBai Ling
Model and actress, known for 'The Crow'
Born
October 10th, 1966 59 years ago
Born in 1966, this Chinese-American model and actress achieved recognition for roles in film and television. Gained prominence with performance in the cult classic film 'The Crow'. Appeared in various other films, including 'Red Corner' and 'Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow'. Also worked in television series like 'Lost' and 'Entourage'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 10th
Pope Paul III
Papal leader during the Renaissance period
Born
February 29th, 1468 557 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1549 476 years ago — 81 years old
Birth occurred on February 29, 1468. Became Pope in 1534 and served until death in 1549. Convened the Council of Trent, which addressed issues of church reform and clarified Catholic doctrine. Promoted the arts and commissioned works from renowned artists such as Michelangelo. Oversaw significant events such as the Protestant Reformation, leading to important changes within the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingKiyosi Itô
Mathematician and creator of Itô calculus
Born
September 7th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2008 17 years ago — 93 years old
A Japanese mathematician made significant contributions to probability theory and stochastic processes. Developed Itô calculus, which became a cornerstone of modern financial mathematics. This work has applications in various fields, including quantitative finance and applied mathematics. Contributed to mathematical statistics and stochastic differential equations. Held a prominent academic position, influencing generations of mathematicians and researchers.
Continue ReadingArthur Rimbaud
French poet and visionary writer
Born
October 20th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1891 134 years ago — 37 years old
Born in France, this poet was a significant figure in the Symbolist movement. Rimbaud began writing poetry at a young age and produced most of his influential work before the age of 20. He is recognized for his brilliant use of vivid imagery and innovative styles. Rimbaud's works include the celebrated poems 'A Season in Hell' and 'Illuminations'. His writings explored themes of personal experience, spirituality, and the nature of existence. After abandoning poetry, he pursued a brief career in commerce and a life of travel in Africa. Rimbaud's influence has endured, inspiring generations of poets and artists.
Continue ReadingPope Leo I
Papal leader during the 5th century
Died
November 10th, 461 1564 years ago — None years old
Served as Pope from 440 to 461. Instrumental in defining the authority of the papacy. Known for the theological work 'Tome of Leo,' which affirmed the nature of Christ at the Council of Chalcedon in 451. Addressed various heresies and emphasized the importance of unity within the Christian community. Advocated for the church's role in political matters, notably negotiating with Attila the Hun to spare Rome from invasion.
Continue ReadingPiet van Zeil
Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
Served as Minister of Economic Affairs in the Netherlands. Contributed to various economic policies and initiatives during the late 20th century. Held a prominent role in shaping the Dutch economic landscape and participated in international economic discussions, promoting Dutch interests.
Continue ReadingJack Palance
Boxer and actor in western films
Born
February 18th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
November 10th, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old
Became a professional boxer in the late 1930s and achieved success in heavyweight competitions. Transitioned to acting after World War II, gaining recognition for roles in western films such as 'Shane' and 'City Slickers'. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'City Slickers'. Worked in both television and film, with appearances on stage as well.
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