Martin Lings
Author and scholar of Islamic studies
A prominent English author and scholar specialized in Islamic studies and spirituality. Worked as a lecturer at the University of London, contributing significantly to the field of religious and spiritual literature. His interpretation of Islamic teachings and Sufi poetry has garnered attention and respect within academic circles. Authored several notable works, including a well-regarded biography of the Prophet Muhammad titled 'Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources'. Lings' writings were rooted in a deep understanding of Islamic traditions and aimed to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western perspectives.
Published 'Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources'
Served as a professor at the University of London
Other People Born on January 24th
Busy Signal
Jamaican Dancehall Reggae Artist
Born
January 24th, 1979 47 years ago
An influential dancehall reggae artist emerged from Jamaica in the late 1990s. Gained recognition for a unique sound blending traditional reggae with modern influences. Released a series of successful singles, which propelled a robust career. Notable tracks include 'Stay So' and 'Tic Toc', which received widespread acclaim and contributed to the genre's evolution. Collaborated with various artists and producers, enhancing the global reach of dancehall music. Maintained a commitment to cultural roots and contemporary themes throughout the discography.
Continue ReadingDaveed Diggs
Actor and rapper from 'Hamilton'
Born
January 24th, 1982 44 years ago
Born in 1982, this American actor, rapper, and singer gained significant recognition for a leading role in the musical 'Hamilton' on Broadway, where portrayal of Thomas Jefferson and Marquis de Lafayette earned a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical in 2016. In addition to theater, this artist also made a mark in film and television. This individual's work includes starring in the series 'Snowpiercer' and in films such as 'Blindspotting', which showcased both acting and musical talents. The artist is also a member of the hip-hop group Clipping, known for experimental rap music.
Continue ReadingCassandre
French painter and graphic designer
Born
January 24th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent figure in the world of design and art, this painter specialized in poster art during the 1920s and 1930s. Renowned for a style that combined Art Deco and modernist elements, created iconic advertising posters for various brands. Contributed significantly to the development of typographic design, particularly with significant work in the field of commercial graphics. His illustrations often featured vibrant colors and geometric shapes that captured the spirit of the era. Worked not only in painting but also in fabric design and contributed murals for public spaces.
Continue ReadingAntony Garrett Lisi
Theoretical physicist and creator of the 'Exceptionally Simple Theory of Everything'
Born
January 24th, 1968 58 years ago
Born in 1968, a theoretical physicist focused on unifying general relativity and quantum mechanics. Developed the 'Exceptionally Simple Theory of Everything', proposing a model based on the E8 Lie group. Contributions include exploring the implications of this theory in particle physics and cosmology. Engaged in discussions around string theory and loop quantum gravity, contributing to commentary in theoretical physics circles.
Continue ReadingMohammad Bagheri Motamed
Taekwondo practitioner and champion
Born
January 24th, 1986 40 years ago
An accomplished taekwondo practitioner, achievements include competing at an international level. Various championships were participated in, showcasing skill and dedication to the sport. Represented Iran in multiple events, contributing to the nation's presence in taekwondo. Success in competitions established a reputation as a formidable athlete.
Continue ReadingEster Šimerová-Martinčeková
Slovak painter with significant works
Born
January 24th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2005 20 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1909, this painter had a prolific career characterized by unique stylistic approaches. Early studies included influences from various art movements, contributing to the development of a distinctive personal style. Involved in the Slovak art scene, she participated in numerous exhibitions throughout her lifetime. Her works often depicted themes of identity and folklore, exploring the connection between culture and individual expression. After World War II, she became part of the emerging Postwar artistic community, which sought to redefine Slovak art. The painter contributed to the evolution of modern Slovak painting and left a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of artists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
H. R. Giger
Swiss surrealist painter and designer
Born
February 5th, 1940 86 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
A Swiss painter, sculptor, and set designer, influential in the world of contemporary art and film. His work blended surrealism with biomechanical elements, culminating in the design of the iconic creature and landscapes in the film 'Alien.' Giger's unique aesthetic shaped not only cinema but also album covers and various forms of art installations. He won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects in 1980 for his contributions to 'Alien,' establishing a legacy as an innovator in visual design in the film industry.
Continue ReadingDennis Nilsen
Scottish serial killer and murderer
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2018 7 years ago — 73 years old
A serial killer who operated in London during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Committed numerous murders of young men and boys, luring victims to his home before killing them. Gained notoriety for the gruesome nature of the crimes and techniques used to dispose of the bodies. Arrested in 1983 after a plumber discovered human remains in the drains of his apartment. Convicted in 1984 and sentenced to life imprisonment, serving 25 years before death in 2018.
Continue ReadingFrances Marion
American screenwriter and novelist
Born
November 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1973 52 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent screenwriter and novelist, contributed significantly to the early film industry in Hollywood. Marion began her career writing for silent films and transitioned into sound films, establishing a reputation for her compelling narratives and strong female characters. She won two Academy Awards for Best Screenplay for 'The Big House' in 1930 and 'The Champ' in 1931. Besides screenwriting, she authored novels and worked as a journalist. Marion's contributions to cinema and literature highlighted the potential of women in creative fields during a transformative period in American arts.
Continue ReadingMark Damon
Film actor and producer, produced horror films
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
An American film actor and producer, earned recognition during the 1960s and 1970s for contributions to the horror genre. Gained fame for performances in films such as 'Angel Face' and 'The Pit and the Pendulum.' Established a production company that specialized in low-budget horror films, achieving considerable success in international markets. After transitioning from acting to producing, focused on fostering new talent and developing innovative projects in the genre. Active in the film industry for several decades, he maintained a presence both in front of and behind the camera until recent years.
Continue ReadingIrena Sendler
Polish nurse and humanitarian
Born
February 15th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 98 years old
Worked as a nurse and social worker during World War II, providing assistance to Jewish families in German-occupied Poland. Facilitated the escape of approximately 2,500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto, placing them with Polish families and in convents to protect them from the Holocaust. After the war, continued to advocate for social justice and human rights. Received numerous awards and honors posthumously for contributions to saving lives during the Holocaust.
Continue ReadingAdam Petty
NASCAR driver and winner of major races
Born
July 10th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2000 25 years ago — 19 years old
American race car driver competed in NASCAR's top series. Participated in the Cup Series from 1998 to 2000, primarily driving the No. 45 car for Petty Enterprises. Achieved notable success at tracks such as New Hampshire International Speedway, where secured a victory in 1999, becoming the first fourth-generation driver to win a NASCAR race. Tragically passed away during a race in 2000 at New Hampshire, drawing attention to safety in motorsports and prompting changes in race car design and track safety protocols.
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