L. Ron Hubbard
Religious leader and founder of Scientology
A prominent figure in the development of new religious movements, this individual founded the Church of Scientology in the early 1950s. The foundation of Scientology stemmed from the release of a book titled 'Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health' published in 1950, which introduced concepts of the human mind and personal improvement techniques. The organization grew rapidly and established a worldwide presence, offering various programs related to spiritual development and self-help. Throughout his life, substantial focus was placed on expanding the church's influence and practices, leading to both support and criticism from various sectors. The individual continued to oversee and promote the church until the end of life.
Founded the Church of Scientology
Authored 'Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health'
Other People Born on March 13th
Paul Prosper Henrys
French general during World War I
Born
March 13th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a general in the French Army during World War I. Played a significant role in various battles, contributing to military strategies and operations. Commanded troops in key engagements, demonstrating leadership during challenging times. His strategies were instrumental in several victories for France during the war.
Continue ReadingBrayden Point
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
March 13th, 1996 29 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, began career in the Western Hockey League (WHL) before being drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 3rd round of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Established as a key player for the Lightning, contributing to significant team achievements. Played in multiple NHL All-Star Games and was part of the Lightning squad that won the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021.
Continue ReadingHugo Wolf
Austrian composer known for art songs
Born
March 13th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1903 122 years ago — 42 years old
Austrian composer contributed significantly to the art song repertoire, crafting over 250 Lieder. Influenced by Richard Wagner, incorporated complex harmonies and emotional depth in compositions. Worked extensively in creating song cycles, with 'Mörike-Lieder' and 'Goethe-Lieder' being notable examples. His works are characterized by lyrical melodies and innovative piano accompaniments. Despite struggles with mental health and a relatively short life, produced an enduring body of work that is still performed today. Spent much of his life in Vienna, where he engaged with various cultural and musical circles.
Continue ReadingInnocent XII
Pope and leader of the Catholic Church
Born
March 13th, 1615 410 years ago
Died
1700 325 years ago — 85 years old
Elected pope in 1691, focused on administrative reforms within the Church, moderated clerical regulations, and addressed corruption. Oversaw the management of Church finances and undertook efforts to improve relations with European monarchs. Advocated for economic measures to alleviate social inequities and enhanced the Church's influence in political matters.
Continue ReadingSian Elias
Chief Justice of New Zealand
Born
March 13th, 1949 76 years ago
Served as the 12th Chief Justice of New Zealand, a role held from 2000 until 2019. Played a significant role in shaping the New Zealand legal system and jurisprudence through various landmark rulings. Contributed to legal education and the promotion of judicial independence. Participated in numerous significant legal reforms during tenure.
Continue ReadingB. H. Roberts
Historian and politician from Utah
Born
March 13th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 76 years old
An historian and politician associated with the early 20th century in the United States. Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Utah. Authored significant works on the history of the Latter-day Saints and the American West, including the multi-volume 'Comprehensive History of the Church'. Advocated for issues related to Mormonism and was involved in various political efforts during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 24th
Pernell Roberts
American actor known for Bonanza
Born
May 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2010 15 years ago — 81 years old
An American actor gained prominence through a role as Adam Cartwright in the television series 'Bonanza'. Starred in the series from 1959 to 1965, becoming a significant figure in the show's early success. Later, portrayed the character Trapper John in 'Trapper John, M.D.' from 1979 to 1986, which solidified a later career in television. Engaged in theater and advocated for various social causes throughout his life.
Continue ReadingJames Collinson
English painter of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
Born
May 9th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1881 144 years ago — 55 years old
Collinson was a prominent English painter associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, an art movement that sought to reform the artistic standards of their time by returning to the detail, intense colors, and complex compositions of medieval and early Renaissance art. His early works included themes based on literature and religion, often infused with symbolism. Participation in group exhibitions showcased his talent alongside fellow artists. The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's dedication to nature and humanity influenced many of his pieces, leading to landscape and genre paintings characterized by meticulous attention to detail. Later in life, he became more involved with Christian iconography, reflecting a deep spiritual commitment in his art.
Continue ReadingWinston Churchill
British Prime Minister and Nobel laureate
Born
November 10th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1965 60 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent English statesman and soldier, served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during critical periods, particularly during World War II. Played a vital role in the Allied victory against Axis powers, leading efforts to rally and mobilize British forces and citizens. Authored numerous works, including historical texts and memoirs, earning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his overall writings. His speeches and radio broadcasts helped inspire resilience during wartime.
Continue ReadingBernd Eichinger
German film director and producer
Born
April 11th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2011 14 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent film director and producer from Germany, notable for creating influential films in the German cinema landscape. Directed the acclaimed movie 'Downfall', which depicted the final days of Adolf Hitler. Produced numerous successful films, including 'The Baader Meinhof Complex', which focused on a radical leftist group in Germany. Instrumental in reviving the German film industry in the 1990s through various projects and his leadership at Filmverlag der Autoren. Established and ran the successful production company Constantin Film.
Continue ReadingAmedeo Modigliani
Italian painter and sculptor
Born
July 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1920 105 years ago — 35 years old
Amedeo Modigliani was an Italian painter and sculptor active in the early 20th century. He is recognized for portraits and nudes characterized by elongated forms and a distinctive, expressive style. Modigliani's work reflects influences from various artistic movements, including Cubism and Expressionism. Despite limited commercial success during his lifetime, his pieces gained significant attention posthumously. Modigliani lived most of his life in Paris, where he became associated with a circle of artists and writers. His life was marked by struggles with poverty and illness, which contributed to his early death.
Continue ReadingFriedrich von Flotow
German composer of operas, notably 'Martha'
Born
April 27th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1883 142 years ago — 70 years old
A 19th-century composer recognized for operatic works, predominantly 'Martha', which premiered in 1847. His career flourished in both Germany and France, where he contributed to the operatic repertoire by blending romantic melodies with traditional elements. Von Flotow's compositions were characterized by lyrical beauty and orchestral richness, gaining popularity in various European theaters. His works often reflected the influences of his time, integrating themes of love and drama. The successful execution of 'Martha' led to a series of performances across Europe, cementing his reputation within the opera community.
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