Malik Bendjelloul
Film director of 'Searching for Sugar Man'
Bendjelloul was a Swedish director and producer. He gained recognition for the documentary 'Searching for Sugar Man', which explored the life of musician Rodriguez and his unexpected fame in South Africa. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2012 and received critical acclaim. It was awarded the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2013. Bendjelloul's approach combined storytelling with a deep exploration of music's impact on culture and society.
Directed 'Searching for Sugar Man'
Won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature
Other People Born on September 14th
Jim Fanning
Baseball player and manager
Born
September 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
A baseball player and manager, Fanning's career spanned both the Major Leagues and the Minor Leagues. Fanning played as a catcher for the Chicago Cubs and later transitioned into a managerial role. Significant managerial tenure included overseeing the Montreal Expos from 1981 to 1984. Under Fanning's leadership, the Expos secured a franchise record of 95 wins during the 1981 season, which resulted in a postseason appearance. His contributions to baseball were notable in both player development and strategic game management.
Continue ReadingFrancisco de Quevedo
Spanish poet and politician, Satirical Works
Born
September 14th, 1580 445 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1645 380 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent figure of the Spanish Golden Age, this individual was a poet and politician renowned for sharp wit and satirical works. Active during the 17th century, he contributed extensively to literature with a distinctive style that often reflected moral and social criticism. His poetry encompassed a range of themes from love to politics, showcasing his mastery of language and form. Held various political positions, including serving as a member of the Spanish Senate. Fiercely opposed to the rival poet Luis de Góngora, his literary feud became a significant aspect of his life and work. His legacy rests on influential writings that have been studied and celebrated in literary circles for centuries.
Continue ReadingMae Boren Axton
American singer-songwriter with hits
Born
September 14th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1997 28 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the music industry as a singer-songwriter. Composed numerous songs, including 'Heartbreak Hotel,' which became a hit for Elvis Presley. Worked as a music promoter and nurtured the careers of various artists. Played a vital role in the country music genre, both in songwriting and performance.
Continue ReadingPonnambalam Arunachalam
Sri Lankan civil servant and politician
Born
September 14th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1924 102 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a civil servant and political figure in Sri Lanka. Contributed to the development of infrastructure and governance after the colonial period. Advocated for the rights of Tamils and worked towards the betterment of their representation in the government. Engaged in various legislative roles, reflecting the socio-political changes in the island during the early 20th century. His efforts played a significant role in shaping the political landscape for future generations.
Continue ReadingAlberto Calderón
Mathematician renowned for Calderón's theorem
Born
September 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1998 27 years ago — 77 years old
Contributions focused on harmonic analysis and partial differential equations. Served as a professor at several universities, including the University of Chicago. Played a significant role in developing mathematical theories that are widely applied in various fields. Calderón's theorem, a fundamental result in harmonic analysis, illustrates the relationship between certain integral equations and boundary value problems.
Continue ReadingBrandon Brown
American race car driver with NASCAR win
Born
September 14th, 1993 32 years ago
A race car driver participated in NASCAR events, achieving significant success in the sport. Competed in various series, showcasing talent on different tracks. Won the 2021 NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Alabama, marking a notable moment in racing career. Became a prominent figure in the racing community, recognized for skills behind the wheel.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 13th
Joseph Henry
American physicist and engineer known for electromagnetism
Born
December 17th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1878 147 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent American physicist and engineer, contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. His research laid foundational principles for the development of the telegraph and other electrical devices. Henry made substantial advancements in the understanding of self-induction and mutual induction, which are crucial for the operation of inductors in electrical circuits. He also served as the first Director of the National Institute for the Promotion of Science, now part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. An influential figure in the scientific community, engaged in extensive correspondence with contemporaries such as Michael Faraday.
Continue ReadingAda Maria Isasi-Diaz
Cuban-American theologian and author
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2012 13 years ago — 69 years old
Cuban-American figure contributed extensively to feminist theology and Hispanic theology. Authored several influential works focusing on the intersection of faith, culture, and social justice. Emphasized the importance of contextual theology in addressing the needs and experiences of marginalized communities. Served as a professor and mentor in various academic institutions, promoting theological education among underrepresented groups.
Continue ReadingSamm-Art Williams
American playwright with acclaimed works
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
A playwright and screenwriter, contributions spanned theater and film. Developed works that highlighted African American experiences and narratives. Gained recognition for the play 'Home', which depicted the struggles of a returning Vietnam veteran. Served as a scriptwriter for various television productions, showcasing talent in creating relatable and poignant characters. Engaged in the arts community through multiple workshops and mentorship programs.
Continue ReadingCyril Wecht
Forensic pathologist and expert witness
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
A forensic pathologist served in multiple high-profile cases and provided expertise in over 40,000 autopsies. Contributed to various notable legal cases, including the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the death of Elvis Presley. Held academic positions, including as a professor and established a career as a medical consultant for law enforcement agencies. Authored numerous publications on forensic pathology and offered services as an expert witness in court, often testifying in complex legal matters.
Continue ReadingMorning Glory Zell-Ravenheart
Occultist and author of grimoires
Born
May 27th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 65 years old
An American occultist and author contributed significantly to the field of modern witchcraft and neopaganism. Established a prominent community focused on the studies of ancient pagan practices and spirituality. Founded a well-known esoteric journal and published various works that explored themes of magic, mythology, and the sacred feminine. Advocated for the revival of earth-centered spirituality and provided resources for practitioners and seekers of mystical traditions.
Continue ReadingAlice Munro
Short Story Writer, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
July 10th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Canada in 1931, a prolific short story writer whose works expanded the genre's boundaries, frequently exploring themes of human connection, memory, and identity. The writing process began at an early age, culminating in acclaimed collections such as 'Dance of the Happy Shades' and 'Dear Life'. Achievements included the Nobel Prize in Literature awarded in 2013, recognizing a masterful ability to depict the intricacies of ordinary life. The narratives often reflected the author's own experiences growing up in Ontario, infusing realism and depth into fictional characters.
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