Margaret Laurence

Canadian author, 'The Stone Angel'

Margaret Laurence - Canadian author, 'The Stone Angel'
Born

July 18th, 1926
98 years ago

Died

January 5th, 1987
38 years ago — 60 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Canada

Links & References

An influential Canadian author and academic, contributions were pivotal in Canadian literature. Wrote acclaimed novels exploring themes of identity, gender, and the human experience. Most recognized for 'The Stone Angel,' a novel that delves into the life of an aging woman reflecting on her past. Also contributed essays, short stories, and children’s books, establishing a significant presence in literary circles. Engaged in academic pursuits, teaching at various universities and encouraging new generations of writers.

'The Stone Angel' (1964)

'A Jest of God' (1966)

'The Diviners' (1974)

Other People Born on July 18th

Richard Leacock

Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.

Continue Reading

Giacinto Facchetti

Footballer and Inter Milan captain
Born
July 18th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
September 4th, 2006 18 years ago — 64 years old

A professional footballer from Italy played as a left-back. Facchetti spent his entire club career at Inter Milan, making a significant contribution to the team's success during the 1960s and 1970s. He transitioned the role of defender into an attacking position, becoming a pioneer in offensive-defensive play. Facchetti earned 94 caps for the Italian national team, participating in the 1966 World Cup and winning the 1968 UEFA European Championship. After retiring from professional play, he served as a director at Inter Milan and was involved in various football-related activities until his passing in 2006.

Continue Reading

Dennis Lillee

Australian cricketer and coach
Born
July 18th, 1949 75 years ago

Debuted in international cricket in 1971 as a fast bowler. Played a key role in Australia's bowling attack during the 1970s and 1980s. Renowned for his distinctive bowling style and formidable pace. Achieved 355 Test wickets and was part of the Australian team that won the 1975 Cricket World Cup. After retiring, transitioned to coaching, mentoring future generations of cricketers.

Continue Reading

Jessamyn West

American author of novels and stories
Born
July 18th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 82 years old

An author wrote numerous short stories and novels, often exploring themes of rural life and the human experience. Notable works include 'The Friendly Persuasions', which was adapted into a film, and 'The Witch Diggers', a collection of short stories. West's writing frequently highlighted the complexities of faith and morality within ordinary life. She also contributed to various publications, offering essays and articles that exhibited her keen observations of life in America. Through her literary contributions, she provided insight into mid-20th century American culture and society.

Continue Reading

Vidkun Quisling

Norwegian military officer and politician
Born
July 18th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1945 79 years ago — 58 years old

A military officer and politician, held the position of Minister President of Norway during World War II. Collaborated with Nazi Germany after the invasion in 1940. Established a provisional government under German control, enacting policies aligned with the occupiers. Quisling's regime was marked by significant repression and collaboration with the Nazis, leading to his notoriety as a traitor in Norway. After the war, faced trial for treason and was executed in 1945.

Continue Reading

Rudolf II

Holy Roman Emperor and patron of art
Born
July 18th, 1552 472 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1612 413 years ago — 59 years old

Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1576 until 1612. Oversaw a period marked by significant cultural and scientific advancements. Emphasized the arts and learning, fostering an environment for artists and scholars. Relocated the imperial court to Prague, turning the city into a cultural hub. Experienced challenges during his reign, including conflicts with the nobility and rising tensions in the Empire, particularly with Protestant factions.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 5th

Roberto Gerhard

Catalan composer and notable scholar
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1970 55 years ago — 74 years old

A Catalan composer and scholar, contributions to contemporary classical music included orchestral works, chamber pieces, and music for stage and screen. Gerhard's work often integrated Spanish folk elements with modern techniques. He studied in France and later became a professor at Cambridge University. His compositions reflect a deep understanding of various musical styles and innovative use of instrumentation. Worked in England for many years after leaving Spain during the Spanish Civil War, establishing a significant presence in the British music scene.

Continue Reading

Burton Lane

American composer of Broadway musicals
Born
February 2nd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1997 28 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent American composer and songwriter, contributed significantly to the American musical theater landscape in the mid-20th century. Collaborated with lyricists such as E.Y. Harburg and Alan Jay Lerner. Major works include the scores for the musicals 'Finian's Rainbow' and 'On a Clear Day You Can See Forever'. Also composed songs for films, with notable contributions to the 1947 musical film 'Finian's Rainbow'.

Continue Reading

Tip O'Neill

U.S. Politician and House Speaker
Born
December 9th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1994 31 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a prominent American lawyer and politician. Elected to the United States House of Representatives for Massachusetts in 1952, held leadership positions including Majority Leader before becoming the 55th Speaker of the House in 1977. Advocated for various policies during a career that spanned nearly four decades. Retired from Congress in 1987 and authored a memoir detailing his experiences in government. Passed away in 1994.

Continue Reading

Jean Chardin

French explorer and author of travels
Born
November 16th, 1643 381 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1713 312 years ago — 69 years old

An explorer and author active in the 17th century, traveled extensively in Persia and documented experiences in the region. Wrote the travel narrative titled 'The Travels of Chardin' that provided detailed insights into Persian culture, society, and geography. His observations contributed to the understanding of Eastern civilizations in the Western world. Through the written work, offered a rare glimpse into the life and customs of the time. His contributions were valued for their meticulous detail and accuracy, influencing subsequent perceptions of the region.

Continue Reading

Tina Modotti

Italian photographer and political activist
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1942 83 years ago — 46 years old

An influential photographer and political activist, this individual significantly contributed to the visual documentation of the social changes in Mexico during the 1920s. Engaging with the Mexican muralist movement, the focus on societal issues reflected a strong commitment to political ideologies. Additionally, involvement in communism shaped various artistic and political pursuits. Modeling and acting occurred in early career stages, but photography became the primary medium of expression. Exhibitions showcased the importance of culturally and socially charged imagery, reinforcing political narratives.

Continue Reading

Calvin Coolidge

30th President of the United States
Born
July 4th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1933 92 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the 30th President of the United States from 1923 to 1929. Initially took office following the death of Warren G. Harding. Implemented economic policies that favored business interests and emphasized limited government involvement in the economy. Advocated for tax reductions and maintained a hands-off approach to economic issues during the Roaring Twenties. Focused on maintaining peace and stability in the post-World War I era. His administration is often associated with the significant economic growth of the 1920s. Elected to a full term in 1924.

Continue Reading