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
Jon Pertwee
English actor and Doctor Who star
Born
July 7th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1996 30 years ago — 76 years old
An English actor gained prominence through significant roles in television and film. Best recognized for portraying the Third Doctor in the long-running sci-fi series Doctor Who, the performance spanned from 1970 to 1974. Pertwee's career included various works in theater, radio, and television, showcasing versatility in character roles. His portrayal of the Doctor brought a blend of charm and authority, influencing the iconic character's future development. Apart from Doctor Who, Pertwee starred in the sitcom Worzel Gummidge as the title character, a scarecrow who comes to life, which became a beloved series in the UK.
Continue ReadingFélicien Rops
Belgian painter and illustrator of Eroticism
Born
July 7th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
1898 128 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 15 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 ReadingCamillo Golgi
Physician and pathologist, Nobel laureate
Born
July 7th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1926 100 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of neuroscience and histology. Developed the Golgi apparatus, a crucial structure in cellular biology. First utilized the silver chromate staining method, enabling the observation of nerve cells. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1906 alongside Santiago Ramón y Cajal for their work on the structure of the nervous system.
Continue ReadingGeorge Cukor
American film director and producer
Born
July 7th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1983 43 years ago — 83 years old
Cukor directed several acclaimed films during his career, primarily in the mid-20th century. His direction of 'My Fair Lady' earned him an Academy Award for Best Director. Other notable works include 'The Philadelphia Story' and 'A Star Is Born'. Cukor's emphasis on character development and strong performances contributed to his reputation in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingAlesso
Swedish DJ and electronic music producer
Born
July 7th, 1991 34 years ago
An influential figure in electronic music, significant contributions include a series of chart-topping singles and collaborations with top artists. Gained prominence in the music scene for the hit single 'Tears' in collaboration with Adrian Lux. Released 'Heroes (We Could Be)' featuring Tove Lo, which achieved international acclaim. Regularly performs at major music festivals, including Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 21st
John 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 ReadingFriedrich August von Quenstedt
Geologist and palaeontologist
Born
July 10th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1889 136 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to geology and palaeontology during the 19th century. Worked extensively on the classification of fossils, particularly from the Jurassic period. Authored several pivotal works, including the influential treatise 'Die Gesteine Württembergs', detailing the geology of Württemberg. His research focused on the stratigraphy and fossil records, establishing foundational concepts in the study of prehistoric life.
Continue ReadingFrank B. Kellogg
U.S. Secretary of State, Nobel laureate
Born
December 22nd, 1856 169 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1937 88 years ago — 80 years old
American lawyer and politician served as the 45th United States Secretary of State. Played a significant role in international diplomacy and contributed to the negotiation of the Kellogg-Briand Pact in 1928, which aimed to eliminate war as a tool of national policy. This work led to the Nobel Peace Prize in 1929. Held various public offices throughout a long career, including serving as a U.S. senator from Minnesota and as the U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain.
Continue ReadingGeorge S. Patton
American General during World War II
Born
November 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1945 80 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent American general during World War II, played a crucial role in the European Theater of the conflict. Commanded the U.S. Third Army and led operations in the Normandy landings. Developed a reputation for aggressive tactics and rapid armored advancement. His leadership was pivotal in several key battles, including the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of France.
Continue ReadingRichard Long
English painter and sculptor
Born
June 2nd, 1945 81 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 ReadingFrancis Garnier
French captain and explorer of Asia
Born
July 25th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1873 152 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1839, a French captain and explorer, undertook significant exploratory missions in Southeast Asia. Led expeditions along the Mekong River, documenting geography and indigenous cultures. Participated in military actions in the Second French Empire's colonial campaigns. Contributed to cartography and geographic knowledge of the region, providing valuable insights during a period of colonial expansion. Met his end in 1873 during a military engagement in Tonkin, leaving a legacy as a prominent figure in French exploration.
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