Maurice Sendak
Children's author and illustrator of Where the Wild Things Are
An American author and illustrator, contributed significantly to children's literature. Best recognized for the book 'Where the Wild Things Are', published in 1963. The work depicted a young boy's adventures in a fantastical world filled with wild creatures. Edited and illustrated various children's books, creating a unique style that combined whimsy with emotional depth. Received numerous accolades, including the Caldecott Medal for 'Where the Wild Things Are'.
Authored 'Where the Wild Things Are'
Won the Caldecott Medal in 1964
Other People Born on June 10th
Mercurino Gattinara
Italian statesman and jurist
Born
June 10th, 1465 560 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1530 495 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent statesman and jurist, contributed to the legal foundations of the Italian states during the Renaissance period. Served as Chancellor of the Duchy of Milan under Francesco Sforza and influenced the political landscape through legal reform. Played significant roles in various diplomatic missions, including negotiations related to the Italian Wars. His legal writings provided insights into the juristic practices of the time, establishing precedents that would be referenced in subsequent generations.
Continue ReadingChen Xitong
Chinese politician, former Mayor of Beijing
Born
June 10th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 8th Mayor of Beijing from 1981 to 1993. Oversaw the city's development during a period of significant economic reforms and modernization in China. Played a role in the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, which led to his eventual political downfall. After the protests, removed from office and faced several years of house arrest. Contributed to urban planning and infrastructure development in Beijing during the 1980s.
Continue ReadingRalph Kirkpatrick
Harpsichord player and musicologist
Born
June 10th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent harpsichord player and musicologist, contributions included extensive research in early keyboard music and performance. Instrumental in reviving interest in the harpsichord during the mid-20th century. Served as a professor and taught at prestigious institutions, influencing generations of musicians. Authored significant scholarly works on baroque music, particularly focusing on J.S. Bach. Established a reputation for both performance and academic excellence.
Continue ReadingSusanne Albers
Computer Scientist and Academic
Born
June 10th, 1965 60 years ago
Worked in the field of computer science with a focus on algorithms and complexity. Contributed to various areas including graph algorithms, approximation algorithms, and data structures. Held a professorship at a university, providing education and research in algorithmic theory and its applications. Published numerous academic papers and led research projects in computational methods and optimization.
Continue ReadingMargarito Bautista
Nahua-Mexican evangelizer and theologian
Born
June 10th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1961 64 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1878, Bautista played a significant role in the evangelization and religious instruction among the Nahua people in Mexico. Focused on the integration of indigenous culture with Christian teachings, contributed to the establishment of a religious community that respected Nahua traditions while promoting Catholicism. Participated in various theological discussions aimed at addressing the spiritual needs of indigenous people in Mexico. Engaged in writings that emphasized a vision of faith that was rooted in indigenous identity.
Continue ReadingHowlin' Wolf
American blues singer and guitarist
Born
June 10th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1976 49 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, played a key role in the evolution of blues music during the mid-20th century. Influenced by Delta blues traditions, produced a unique style characterized by powerful vocals and expressive guitar work. Gained popularity with numerous recordings, collaborating with other notable musicians. Achieved commercial success in the 1960s, particularly with the album 'Moanin' in the Moonlight', which featured classics like 'Smokestack Lightning' and 'Killing Floor'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 8th
William Schallert
American actor and Screen Actors Guild president
Born
July 6th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
An American actor and prominent figure in the entertainment industry, had a career spanning over six decades. Acted in film, television, and theater, and played notable roles in popular series. Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, advocating for the rights of actors during a transformative period in the industry. Participated in multiple television projects and films, establishing a recognizable presence on screen.
Continue ReadingVital Brazil
Immunologist and physician in Brazil
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1950 75 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of immunology and tropical medicine. Developed serum therapies for various snake bites, including anti-venoms for bites from the Jararaca snake. Founded the Butantan Institute in São Paulo, a leading center for biomedical research and production of vaccines and anti-serums. Conducted extensive research on infectious diseases, contributing to public health in Brazil and beyond.
Continue ReadingPietro Longhi
Venetian painter and educator
Born
November 5th, 1701 324 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1785 240 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Venice in 1701, this painter specialized in genre scenes depicting the daily life of Venetian society. Active during the 18th century, his work featured a keen observation of character and social interactions. He was also involved in education, contributing to the development of art and its appreciation in his city. Longhi's art reflects the customs and costumes of his period, providing historical context through visual storytelling. His compositions often included figures in elaborate clothing, set against the backdrop of Venetian architecture.
Continue ReadingSebastião José de Carvalho e Melo
1st Marquis of Pombal, Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
May 13th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1782 243 years ago — 82 years old
Held the office of Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777. Implemented significant reforms in education, economics, and administration following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Advocated for the reduction of the power of the Church and centralized royal authority, thereby modernizing the state. Initiated infrastructure projects and promoted trade, contributing to Portugal's recovery and growth in the 18th century.
Continue ReadingDuan Zong
Chinese emperor during the Song dynasty
Born
1269 756 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1278 747 years ago — 9 years old
Duan Zong served as a ruler during a tumultuous period in the Southern Song dynasty. Ascending the throne in 1276, his reign was marked by continued conflict with the Mongol Empire, which sought to conquer China. The Mongol invasions led to significant challenges for the Song, including territorial losses. His reign ended in 1278 amidst the fall of the Song dynasty, with the Mongols ultimately unifying China under their rule. The emperor's efforts to maintain sovereignty faced insurmountable difficulties, and his rule concluded with the collapse of the dynasty.
Continue ReadingPaul Gauguin
French painter, best known for Post-Impressionism
Born
June 7th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1903 122 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent figure in the Post-Impressionist movement, this artist emphasized color and symbolism in his work. Initially working as a stockbroker, he pursued his passion for painting, greatly influencing modern art. Settling in Tahiti, the artist created many of his most recognized pieces, showcasing the local culture and landscape. Works reflect a quest for spiritual and artistic freedom, moving away from Impressionism's constraints. The artist's innovative techniques and use of color had a lasting impact on 20th-century art.
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