Knut Hamsun
Norwegian novelist and Nobel laureate
Pioneered modernist literature, focusing on psychological themes, nature, and introspection. Published works include 'Hunger', 'Growth of the Soil', and 'Hunger' garnered international acclaim. 'Growth of the Soil' won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1920. Contributions to literature emphasized the inner workings of the human mind and the struggle for identity. Explored the complexities of human experience and the relationship with nature.
Published 'Hunger' in 1890
Won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1920 for 'Growth of the Soil'
Other People Born on August 4th
Warren Avis
Businessman, founded Avis Rent a Car
Born
August 4th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 92 years old
Founded Avis Rent a Car System in 1946, which transformed the car rental industry. Introduced innovations in rental processes and customer service. Expanded the business rapidly, establishing Avis as a key player in the market. Developed a franchise system that allowed for global expansion, making Avis a recognized name in travel and transportation services.
Continue ReadingFrances E. Allen
Computer Scientist with Turing Award
Born
August 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 88 years old
A computer scientist and academic contributed significantly to the field of computer science. Played a key role in advancing compilers and optimizing programming languages. Worked at IBM for many years and focused on formal methods for program correctness. As a pioneer in parallel computing and optimization techniques, helped shape modern computing practices. Became the first woman to receive the Turing Award in 2006, recognizing outstanding contributions to computing.
Continue ReadingAli al-Sistani
Iranian-Iraqi cleric and religious leader
Born
August 4th, 1930 95 years ago
An influential cleric and religious leader, played a pivotal role in shaping modern Shiite Islam. Established a significant religious authority in Iraq, particularly after the fall of Saddam Hussein. Advocated for democratic governance and civil rights within Iraq, contributing to the country's post-war reconstruction. Engaged in dialogues with various political entities, fostering a moderate approach to governance and society.
Continue ReadingHerb Ellis
Guitarist associated with jazz genres
Born
August 4th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent American guitarist, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Co-founded the band the Four Brothers, which was influential in the 1940s. Collaborated with many renowned musicians including Ella Fitzgerald and Oscar Peterson. Worked as a session musician, contributing to numerous recordings throughout his career. Ellis's talent and innovation on the guitar were recognized in the jazz community, leading to a lasting legacy in the world of music.
Continue ReadingJohann Niemann
German lieutenant during World War II
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1943 83 years ago — 30 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the German Army during World War II. Participated in combat operations across the Eastern Front. Engaged in various battles and military campaigns, contributing to the strategies employed by his unit. The specifics of his military engagements and rank within different operations reflected the broader tactics of the German forces during the war.
Continue ReadingTimi Yuro
American singer with famous hit 'Hurt'
Born
August 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2004 21 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent American singer and songwriter, recognized for a powerful voice and emotional delivery. Rose to fame in the early 1960s with the release of the hit single 'Hurt', which achieved significant chart success. Her career included numerous recordings that showcased vocal range and depth, leading to a dedicated following. During the 1960s, Yuro became a prominent figure in popular music, contributing to the era's sound. She later recorded various albums and continued to perform until the later years of her life.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 19th
Thomas Burgess
Bishop and philosopher in England
Born
November 18th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1837 188 years ago — 80 years old
Served as the Bishop of St David's and was a prominent philosopher during the early 19th century. Contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy. Worked to improve the education system within the Church and advocated for the training of clergy. Engaged in the literary world through writings that explored religious and philosophical themes.
Continue ReadingRobert Coleman Richardson
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 26th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old
A physicist and academic recognized for contributions to the field of condensed matter physics. Significant work included studies on superfluidity in helium-3. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1996 alongside other scientists for pioneering research that deepened the understanding of this phenomenon. Served as a professor at several institutions, contributing to the education of future physicists and the advancement of research in the discipline.
Continue ReadingJean-Charles de Borda
French mathematician and physicist
Born
May 4th, 1733 292 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1799 226 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics during the 18th century. Developed methods for precision in measurements and made advancements in naval science. Participated in various naval expeditions and served on the French navy's scientific commissions. Engaged in political discussions related to navigational science and its applications, impacting maritime practices.
Continue ReadingCharles Chauncy
Minister and theologian, Harvard president
Born
November 5th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1672 353 years ago — 79 years old
Involved in early American ministry and theology, served as a prominent minister in Boston. Contributed significantly to religious thought and education. Held the office of President at Harvard College from 1654 to 1672. Engaged in controversies over church governance and civic matters, advocating for a congregationalist approach. Played a crucial role in the development of Harvard as a center for Puritan thought.
Continue ReadingJohn Basilone
U.S. Marine Corps Medal of Honor recipient
Born
November 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1945 80 years ago — 28 years old
Served as a United States Marine Corps sergeant during World War II. Participated in the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Battle of Iwo Jima. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Guadalcanal. His actions contributed significantly to the success of the campaign.
Continue ReadingAndré Gide
French novelist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 22nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1951 74 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in French literature, contributions included influential novels, essays, and plays. Focused on themes of individualism and moral complexity, works often challenged societal norms. Significant publications included 'The Immoralist', 'The Counterfeiters', and 'Straight is the Gate'. Recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1947, recognized for a body of work that explored the intricacies of human experience. Gide's literary career spanned several decades, influencing many writers and thinkers.
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