Lion Feuchtwanger
German author and playwright of notable works
An influential German author and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early to mid-20th century. Worked in various genres, including novels and plays, often emphasizing themes of social justice and identity. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s due to the rise of the Nazi regime. Many works were critical of totalitarianism, including the well-regarded novels 'The Oppermanns' and 'Jew Süss'. Maintained an active role in literary circles, producing works that resonated deeply during times of political upheaval. Continued to write and publish until death in 1958, leaving a legacy that influenced later generations of writers.
Wrote 'The Oppermanns'
Wrote 'Jew Süss'
Published plays and essays
Other People Born on July 7th
Pinetop Perkins
Blues musician and pianist renowned for 'Pinetop's Boogie Woogie'
Born
July 7th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2011 14 years ago — 97 years old
A celebrated blues musician and pianist, contributed significantly to the genre's evolution. Gained recognition in the 1940s while performing with renowned bands and artists. Developed a signature boogie-woogie style that influenced numerous musicians. Released multiple albums showcasing talents, including 'Pinetop's Boogie Woogie', which highlighted his skills as a pianist and composer. Continued to perform and record music well into the later years of life, securing a legacy in the blues community.
Continue ReadingElizabeth of Hungary
Queen and Saint of Hungary, philanthropist
Born
July 7th, 1207 818 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1231 794 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1207, a Hungarian princess, dedicated life to charitable works. Married to the Landgrave of Thuringia, served the poor and sick during her lifetime. After her husband's death, she continued her philanthropy, building hospitals and caring for the ill. After her death in 1231, she was canonized by the Catholic Church in 1235 due to her significant charitable contributions and piety. Recognized as a patron saint of the poor, her legacy endures in various forms of devotion and veneration.
Continue ReadingFélicien Rops
Belgian painter and illustrator of Eroticism
Born
July 7th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Belgium in 1833, a prominent painter and illustrator specialized in erotic art. Early in his career, became associated with the symbolist movement, depicting themes of death and eroticism through his artwork. Created illustrations for works by notable authors, including Baudelaire's 'Les Fleurs du mal'. His paintings often featured dark, fantastical elements that pushed societal boundaries. Rops' work has been celebrated for its distinct style and ability to provoke thought regarding sexuality and morality.
Continue ReadingLiviu Ciulei
Romanian actor and director of plays
Born
July 7th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 88 years old
Ciulei was an influential figure in Romanian theater and cinema. He studied at the University of Bucharest, where he later became a prominent teacher. His directorial debut occurred in the 1960s, leading a production of 'Hamlet'. Ciulei also starred in films such as 'The Reenactment' and 'The Last Stop'. His innovative approach to stage directing earned him recognition among peers. He received numerous awards for his contributions to theater and film, receiving accolades at both national and international levels.
Continue ReadingDoc Severinsen
Trumpet player and bandleader of Tonight Show
Born
July 7th, 1927 98 years ago
An American trumpet player and conductor, gained prominence as the bandleader of the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson from 1962 to 1992. Renowned for exceptional trumpet skills and vibrant personality, influenced jazz and big band music. Conducted various orchestras and recorded numerous albums throughout a lengthy career. Severinsen has performed with many well-known artists and continues to engage audiences with dynamic performances.
Continue ReadingCarmen Duncan
Australian actress in television and film
Born
July 7th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 77 years old
Originated from Australia, pursued an acting career that spanned over three decades, appearing in numerous television series and films. Gained prominence for roles in the television series 'Number 96' and 'The Young Doctors'. Also featured in the films 'The Love Letters' and 'The Last of the Knuckleheads'. Contributed to stage productions, showcasing versatility across different platforms. Retired from acting but remained a respected figure in the Australian entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 21st
Claude Champagne
Canadian composer and violinist
Born
May 27th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1965 60 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1891, this individual was a prominent Canadian composer, violinist, and pianist. He studied at the Conservatoire de Paris and became instrumental in the development of Canadian classical music. The composition style blended French influences with Canadian themes. Contributions to music included innovative works that showcased Canadian cultural elements. Champagne held academic positions, teaching composition and music theory at various institutions. His work extended to the realm of arranging, with a focus on traditional Quebecois music. The legacy includes numerous compositions for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and solo instruments.
Continue ReadingRichard Long
English painter and sculptor
Born
June 2nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1945, this individual is recognized for contributions to land art and environmental art. A career spanned several decades, focusing on using natural materials to create artworks that are often situated in outdoor settings. The practice involved walking in landscapes, with artworks documented through photography. This artist's approach emphasizes the relationship between nature and artistic expression.
Continue ReadingJohn Newton
English priest and hymn writer
Born
July 24th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1807 218 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a sailor in the slave trade before converting to Christianity and becoming an Anglican priest. Authored the hymn 'Amazing Grace' which remains popular in Christian worship. Played a significant role in the abolitionist movement in Britain, advocating against slavery and sharing personal experiences to highlight its moral implications. Newton spent years emphasizing reconciliation and forgiveness through his ministry, influencing many with his teachings.
Continue ReadingJohn Eisenhower
Historian and U.S. Ambassador to Belgium
Born
August 3rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 45th United States Ambassador to Belgium from 1969 to 1971. Held the rank of Brigadier General in the U.S. Army and contributed to military history through writing and research. Authored several books on military history, including a biography of his father, Dwight D. Eisenhower. Had a career in diplomacy and military service that spanned decades.
Continue ReadingNikolaas Tinbergen
Ethologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1988 37 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent ethologist and ornithologist, this individual contributed significantly to the study of animal behavior. The research emphasized instinctive behavior in animals and introduced the concept of fixed action patterns. In 1973, shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Konrad Lorenz and Karl von Frisch for discoveries concerning organization and elicitation of individual and social behavior patterns in animals. His work laid foundational principles in ethology and significantly advanced understanding of animal behavior, breeding, and communications.
Continue ReadingH.B. Warner
English actor in silent film era
Born
October 26th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1958 67 years ago — 82 years old
Began a career in theatre before transitioning to film in the early 20th century. Gained prominence during the silent film era, appearing in numerous films that showcased his dramatic skills. Achieved lasting recognition for roles in 'The Last of the Mohicans' and 'It's a Wonderful Life', portraying Mr. Gower, the druggist. Worked with many leading figures in early cinema and was noted for the ability to convey emotion without dialogue.
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