Mary Lee Settle
American novelist and memoirist
Born in 1918, this author gained recognition for contributions to American literature through novels, essays, and memoirs. A significant aspect of her work involved exploring themes of identity and heritage, particularly in relation to her own Appalachian roots. The author published several acclaimed novels throughout her career, with 'Bloodroot' and 'O Beulah Land' receiving particular attention for their rich narrative style and exploration of personal and cultural histories. In addition to fiction, she wrote essays and memoirs that further reflected her literary voice and connection to her homeland. The author also played a role in supporting and promoting writing and literature, influencing younger generations of writers.
Published the novel 'Bloodroot'
Published the novel 'O Beulah Land'
Established the literary organization 'Writers' League of Texas'
Other People Born on July 29th
Hilary Smart
American sailor and world champion
Born
July 29th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2000 26 years ago — 74 years old
Sailed competitively, achieving significant success in various sailing events. Competed in the 1996 Summer Olympics, showcasing skills at an international level. Won multiple national championships and gained recognition as a top sailor in the United States. Contributed to the growth of sailing as a sport through coaching and mentorship to younger sailors, promoting the sport within local communities.
Continue ReadingClayton Keller
Professional ice hockey player, Arizona Coyotes
Born
July 29th, 1998 28 years ago
An ice hockey player, drafted 7th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Keller began his professional career in the 2017-18 NHL season. He played for the United States national junior team and participated in the IIHF World Junior Championships, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Keller has served as captain of the Coyotes, showcasing leadership on the ice.
Continue ReadingWilliam Powell
Actor in The Thin Man series
Born
July 29th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1984 42 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor, renowned for a distinctive style in film and a sophisticated persona. Starred in the 'The Thin Man' series, portraying the character Nick Charles, which became a hallmark of his career. Also earned acclaim for performances in films like 'My Man Godfrey' and 'The Great Ziegfeld'. His career spanned over five decades, starting in the silent film era and transitioning to talkies, showcasing versatility in various genres. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for 'My Man Godfrey'.
Continue ReadingRupert Hamer
Australian politician and lawyer
Born
July 29th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2004 22 years ago — 87 years old
A soldier during World War II, contributed to Australia's legal and political landscape. Served as the 39th Premier of Victoria from 1972 to 1981, implementing significant reforms in education and health. Hamer also had a legal career, focusing on constitutional law and public policy after his tenure as Premier.
Continue ReadingMartin Körber
Pastor and composer of choral works
Born
July 29th, 1817 209 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1893 133 years ago — 75 years old
An Estonian-German pastor, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the choral music scene in the 19th century. Held the position of a pastor and became involved in various musical activities, composing a number of choral works that gained popularity in his time. Employed his musical talent to enrich church services and community events. His contributions to choral music helped establish a framework for future generations of composers and conductors in the region.
Continue ReadingRochus Misch
German SS officer and bodyguard
Born
July 29th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1917, served as a bodyguard for Adolf Hitler during World War II. Assigned to the Führerbunker in Berlin, played a key role in the security detail. Experienced the final days of the Third Reich and witnessed numerous significant historical events. After the war, captured by Soviet forces and later became a successful entrepreneur. His post-war life included a focus on sharing personal experiences of service during the Nazi regime, providing insight into the inner workings of the regime's leadership.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 27th
Jimmy McCulloch
Scottish musician and songwriter, guitarist
Born
June 4th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1979 46 years ago — 26 years old
A Scottish musician and songwriter gained prominence in the 1970s as the lead guitarist for the band Wings, performing alongside Paul McCartney. McCulloch contributed to notable albums including 'Wild Life' and 'Red Rose Speedway'. He also played with the band Stone the Crows and was involved in various musical projects throughout his career. His work showcased a blend of rock and blues influences, demonstrating notable guitar skills and songwriting capabilities.
Continue ReadingJohn VII
German count and military theorist
Born
June 7th, 1561 465 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1623 402 years ago — 62 years old
Count of Nassau-Siegen during the 16th century. Served in various military campaigns, including the Eighty Years' War. Contributed to military strategies and tactics through writings that influenced later military theorists. Held political influence within the Holy Roman Empire and managed land holdings effectively.
Continue ReadingEllen Willmott
Horticulturalist with notable gardens
Born
August 19th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1934 91 years ago — 76 years old
An English horticulturalist specialized in growing and cultivating a wide range of plants. Established large gardens at her home, Warley Place in Essex, which featured rare and exotic plants. Contributed extensively to botanical literature and was an active member of several horticultural societies. The creation of a specific garden dedicated to the Erythrina and a prominent role in the Royal Horticultural Society highlighted her career.
Continue ReadingMarty Balin
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Jefferson Airplane
Born
January 30th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2018 7 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the counterculture music scene, contributed to the formation of the band Jefferson Airplane in 1965. The band became a defining act of the psychedelic rock era, achieving significant commercial success. Balin's songwriting and vocal contributions were central to the band's sound, especially in hits like "Somebody to Love" and "White Rabbit." He left the group in 1971 but remained involved in music, forming the band Jefferson Starship, which also gained popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s. His work extended beyond music into other artistic endeavors, including painting and poetry, reflecting a lifelong engagement with creative expression.
Continue ReadingBraxton Bragg
American Civil War general.
Born
March 22nd, 1817 209 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1876 149 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Played a significant role in key battles, including the Battle of Chickamauga and the Battle of Chattanooga. Held the position of General and was in command of the Army of Tennessee. Contributed to military strategies and tactics throughout the war. After the war, Bragg held various military roles and served as a supervisor of the Louisiana State Penitentiary.
Continue ReadingWilliam of Wykeham
English bishop and educator
Born
1320 706 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1404 621 years ago — 84 years old
William of Wykeham served as the Bishop of Winchester and was a key figure in the development of education in England. He founded New College, Oxford, in 1379 and established Winchester College in 1382, which became significant institutions for education. His contributions to architecture are notable, especially in the rebuilding of Winchester Cathedral.
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