Marguerite Yourcenar

Author known for 'Memoirs of Hadrian'

Marguerite Yourcenar - Artists & Creatives born June 8th, 1903
Born
Died
Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Belgium

Links & References

Marguerite Yourcenar was a Belgian-French author and poet. She became the first woman elected to the Académie Française in 1980. Yourcenar's literary career spanned several decades, during which she wrote novels, essays, and plays. One of her most significant works, 'Memoirs of Hadrian', published in 1951, is a fictional account of the Roman Emperor Hadrian's life, exploring themes of love, loss, and mortality. The novel received critical acclaim and has been translated into multiple languages, confirming her place in the literary canon. She also gained recognition for her other works, including 'The Abyss', which examined the life of an early Christian philosopher. Yourcenar's evocative prose and deep philosophical insights have continued to resonate with readers worldwide.

Wrote 'Memoirs of Hadrian'

First woman elected to the Académie Française

Other People Born on June 8th

Kanye West

Rapper and fashion designer, Yeezy creator
Born
June 8th, 1977 48 years ago

An American rapper, producer, director, and fashion designer, achieved fame with the debut album 'The College Dropout' in 2004. Gained recognition for innovative music production and genre-blending styles within hip-hop. Established a fashion brand, Yeezy, which became influential in contemporary streetwear. Directed the acclaimed music video for 'Stronger' and led numerous collaborations with various artists. Produced several Grammy Award-winning albums, showcasing a significant evolution in modern music.

Continue Reading

Santiago Bernabéu Yeste

Football Manager and Stadium Namesake
Born
June 8th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1978 47 years ago — 82 years old

A significant figure in football management and administration, played an instrumental role in shaping the modern era of Real Madrid. Managed the club from 1943 to 1978, leading the team to numerous victories and establishing it as a powerhouse in European football. Oversaw the construction of the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, enhancing the club's prestige and capacity. The stadium became a symbol of the team's success, hosting numerous high-profile matches and events.

Continue Reading

Kenneth G. Wilson

Physicist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 8th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

A physicist and academic, contributions included work on phase transitions and critical phenomena. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1982 for theoretical discoveries in physical systems, particularly for the renormalization group theory. His research influenced various fields such as condensed matter physics and statistical mechanics. Held a position at Ohio State University where he contributed to the education of many physicists and continued academic research. Also contributed to public understanding of science through educational programs.

Continue Reading

Robert Aumann

Mathematician and economist, Nobel laureate
Born
June 8th, 1930 95 years ago

Born in Germany, a prominent mathematician, and economist, focused on game theory and its applications. Contributed to the understanding of strategic interactions in economics. Awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2005, along with another economist, for work on bargaining theory. Served as a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, engaging in research that impacted various fields, including economics, political science, and social science.

Continue Reading

Jan Frans De Boever

Belgian painter and illustrator of landscapes
Born
June 8th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1949 76 years ago — 76 years old

Renowned as a painter and illustrator, contributed significantly to art in the 20th century. Studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels and developed a distinct style characterized by rich colors and emotive landscapes. Worked primarily in oil and watercolor, often depicting serene rural scenes and the natural environment. Included in various exhibitions across Europe, with numerous works held in prominent museums. Influenced later generations of artists through teaching and mentorship.

Continue Reading

Sonja Vectomov

Czech/Finnish sculptor and artist
Born
June 8th, 1957 68 years ago

Born in 1957, this sculptor has created a significant body of work characterized by a unique blend of materials and themes. The artistic career began in the late 20th century, exploring various forms and techniques. This sculptor's work often draws inspiration from nature and the human experience, leading to installations and sculptures that invite observation and reflection. Exhibited in galleries across Europe, the creations have garnered attention for their innovative approach to sculpture and design. Various public installations demonstrate a commitment to integrating art within communal spaces, enhancing public accessibility to artworks.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 17th

Jennifer Jones

American actress, Oscar winner for "The Song of Bernadette"
Born
March 2nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old

An accomplished actress in American cinema, recognized for a career that spanned several decades. Featured in critically acclaimed films such as "The Song of Bernadette," which earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. Starred in major productions like "Duel in the Sun" and "Love is a Many-Splendored Thing." Established a prominent presence in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s, known for her exceptional acting ability and on-screen charisma. Received multiple nominations and awards throughout her career, solidifying her status as one of the leading actresses of her time.

Continue Reading

Tom Wesselmann

American painter of pop art
Born
February 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old

An influential American painter and sculptor, this artist was a prominent figure in the pop art movement, known for incorporating elements of commercial culture in artwork. The series Great American Nude features bold colors and simplified forms, directly addressing themes of consumerism and sexuality. Throughout a career spanning several decades, the artist explored the intersection of fine art and everyday life, often utilizing assemblage techniques. The artwork reflected modern American culture, tackling subjects from advertising to personal desire. This artist's work has been important in establishing a narrative around consumer culture in the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Sammy Baugh

American football player and coach
Born
March 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old

Played as a quarterback for the Washington Redskins from 1937 to 1952. Achieved three NFL championships in 1937, 1942, and 1943. Also served as a coach after retirement from playing, influencing the game through his strategic insights and leadership. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.

Continue Reading

Fred Bruemmer

Photographer and author of Arctic life
Born
June 26th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Latvia, Bruemmer moved to Canada and became a prominent photographer and author specializing in wildlife and the Arctic. His work prominently featured the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Inuit people. He published several books, capturing the intimate relationship between indigenous communities and their environment. Additionally, he contributed articles and photographs to various magazines and organizations focused on environmental conservation.

Continue Reading

Baldwin V

Count of Hainaut and Flanders
Born
1150 876 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1195 830 years ago — 45 years old

Held the title of Count of Hainaut and Count of Flanders. Ascended to the throne at a young age and faced numerous challenges during the reign, including conflicts with neighboring territories and internal strife. Worked towards consolidating power and maintaining the stability of the region. Involved in the politics of the time, particularly regarding alliances and enmities among the local nobility.

Continue Reading

Leopold II of Belgium

Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born
April 9th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1909 116 years ago — 74 years old

Reigned as King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Established the Congo Free State as a personal possession, which was marked by extensive exploitation of natural resources and forced labor. Under his rule, significant economic development occurred in the region, but at a devastating cost to the local population.

Continue Reading