Kostis Palamas
Greek poet and playwright of 'The Kiss'
Born in 1859, this individual contributed significantly to Greek literature through poetry and drama. His work often explored themes of national identity and cultural issues. He served as a director of the Greek National Theatre and was involved in the promotion of modern Greek literature. His most celebrated poem, 'The Kiss' (Το Φιλί), is noteworthy for its depth and emotional resonance. The poet also played a crucial role in the establishment of the modern Greek literary tradition, influencing generations of writers and thinkers.
Wrote the poem 'The Kiss'
Served as director of the Greek National Theatre
Contributed to modern Greek literature
Other People Born on January 13th
Wayne Coyne
Singer-songwriter and musician, The Flaming Lips
Born
January 13th, 1961 65 years ago
Born in 1961, a prominent figure in alternative rock music. Founded the band The Flaming Lips in 1983, which gained fame for its innovative sound and theatrical live performances. Released critically acclaimed albums such as "The Soft Bulletin" and "Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots," which showcased creative musical experimentation. The group received multiple Grammy Awards and developed a reputation for their elaborate stage shows and visual art.
Continue ReadingHeath Hembree
Baseball player, reliever for Red Sox
Born
January 13th, 1989 37 years ago
An American baseball player, primarily served as a reliever in Major League Baseball (MLB). Hembree debuted with the San Francisco Giants and later played for the Boston Red Sox. During his tenure with the Red Sox, he was part of the team that won the 2018 World Series. He was also noted for his ability to throw a fastball regularly exceeding 95 mph, contributing to effective pitching options out of the bullpen.
Continue ReadingVasilije Micić
Serbian basketball player, EuroLeague champion
Born
January 13th, 1994 32 years ago
Professional basketball player began career in Serbia. Achieved prominence in European basketball, playing for various teams. Joined Anadolu Efes in 2020, contributing to the team’s success. Secured the EuroLeague title in 2021, earning the Final Four MVP award. Demonstrated skills as a point guard, known for playmaking abilities and scoring capability.
Continue ReadingJacek Majchrowski
Polish historian and politician
Born
January 13th, 1947 79 years ago
Born in 1947, a historian and lawyer who became the Mayor of Kraków in 2002. Focused on urban development and historical preservation, contributed significantly to the cultural heritage of the city. Played important roles in various local and regional legislative bodies, enhancing civic engagement. Involved in several community initiatives aimed at improving quality of life in Kraków.
Continue ReadingGigi Galli
Italian race driver and rally participant
Born
January 13th, 1973 53 years ago
Competed in various international rally championships, achieving recognition in the World Rally Championship. Participated in multiple events including the Rally di Sardegna and acquired notable stage wins. His racing career spanned from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s, often competing for teams like Peugeot and Subaru. Transitioned to commentary and coaching after retiring from competitive driving.
Continue ReadingMichael Peña
American actor in film and television
Born
January 13th, 1976 50 years ago
An American actor, Peña has featured prominently in both film and television since the late 1990s. He gained attention for roles in 'Crash', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture, and portrayed key characters in acclaimed films such as 'American Hustle' and 'Ant-Man'. Peña has also appeared in popular television series, including 'The Shield'. His performances often blend drama and humor, showcasing versatility across genres.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 27th
John Arbuthnot
Scottish physician and polymath
Born
April 29th, 1667 358 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1735 290 years ago — 67 years old
A Scottish physician and polymath, contributions spanned medicine, literature, and mathematics. Served as a physician to Queen Anne, providing medical insights and treatments. Authored influential works in both satire and medicine, blending humor with critical social commentary. Played a significant role in the early development of statistics and epidemiology, particularly through the application of mathematics in medical understanding. Engaged in political commentary and discourse through writings, influencing contemporary thought.
Continue ReadingVan Cliburn
Pianist and Van Cliburn International Piano Competition
Born
July 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 78 years old
An American pianist gained international acclaim by winning the first International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1958 during the Cold War, symbolizing a cultural exchange between the United States and the Soviet Union. After this achievement, Cliburn's career flourished, leading to sold-out concerts worldwide. He became a prominent figure in classical music, known for his performances of Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninoff's works. Later established the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, which has continued to attract talented pianists. Cliburn received multiple accolades throughout his career, including Grammy Awards and the Kennedy Center Honor.
Continue ReadingKonrad Lorenz
Austrian zoologist and Nobel laureate
Born
November 7th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1989 36 years ago — 85 years old
Austrian zoologist, ethologist, and ornithologist specialized in animal behavior. Developed the theory of imprinting, focusing on the bond between animals and their caregivers. Conducted extensive research on social behavior in animals, particularly in birds, which laid the foundation for ethology as a discipline. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1973 for discoveries in behavioral research. Contributions influenced the understanding of instincts in animals and humans alike.
Continue ReadingLouis Vuitton
Fashion designer, founded Louis Vuitton
Born
August 4th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1892 133 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent French fashion designer established a luxury brand recognized globally. Founded a leather goods company in 1854 which became synonymous with expert craftsmanship and high-quality materials. The brand expanded into various sectors including bags, clothing, and accessories, catering to an elite clientele. Innovations in travel trunk design contributed significantly to the brand's early success, setting a standard in the fashion industry.
Continue ReadingDuke Snider
Baseball player with Dodgers championship
Born
September 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent baseball player, manager, and sportscaster during a celebrated career, achieved significant recognition while playing for the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers in Major League Baseball. Snider was a vital player during the Dodgers' successful years, contributing to their World Series championships in 1955, 1959, and 1963. Post-retirement, served as a sportscaster, sharing insights on the game. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980.
Continue ReadingAlexander Borodin
Russian composer and chemist
Born
November 12th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1887 138 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent Russian composer and chemist, contributions to music include symphonic works and operas. Associated with the nationalist movement in music, created the opera 'Prince Igor' which features the famous 'Polovtsian Dances'. Also worked in the field of chemistry, focusing on organic compounds. Served as a professor of chemistry at the Imperial Medical-Surgical Academy in St. Petersburg.
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