Michael Ende

German author of fantasy novels

Michael Ende - German author of fantasy novels
Born

November 12th, 1929
95 years ago

Died

August 28th, 1995
29 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

A significant figure in German literature, contributed to the genre of children's and fantasy literature. Most recognized for writing 'The NeverEnding Story,' a novel that explores themes of imagination and adventure. His works often engage with the inner lives of children, inspiring readers of all ages. Ende's storytelling artistry combines elements of fantasy, allegory, and philosophy, making his books both entertaining and thought-provoking.

'The NeverEnding Story'

'Momo'

Other People Born on November 12th

Les McKeown

Scottish pop singer with Bay City Rollers
Born
November 12th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 65 years old

Originated from Scotland, a pop singer gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the Bay City Rollers during the 1970s. The group achieved significant success with their catchy tunes and vibrant image, becoming a defining act of the era. The chart-topping single "Bye Bye Baby" topped the UK Singles Chart. McKeown also contributed to the band’s distinctive style and sound, which blended pop with glam rock. After parting ways with the band, he pursued a solo career and continued to perform, bringing hits from his earlier days to new audiences. McKeown's influence in pop music and his representation of the Scottish music scene remained notable until his passing in 2021.

Continue Reading

Mikhail Chigorin

Russian Chess Player and Theoretician
Born
November 12th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1908 117 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent chess player and theoretician from Russia, contributed significantly to chess theory and opened a new era in Russian chess. Played in multiple international tournaments during the late 19th century, showing exceptional skill and strategic depth. Chigorin was a leading figure in the chess community, garnering respect and recognition for his understanding of game principles. His innovative approaches influenced future generations of players, solidifying his legacy in chess history.

Continue Reading

Alexander Borodin

Russian composer and chemist
Born
November 12th, 1833 191 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1887 138 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent Russian composer and chemist, contributions to music include symphonic works and operas. Associated with the nationalist movement in music, created the opera 'Prince Igor' which features the famous 'Polovtsian Dances'. Also worked in the field of chemistry, focusing on organic compounds. Served as a professor of chemistry at the Imperial Medical-Surgical Academy in St. Petersburg.

Continue Reading

Richard H. Truly

NASA astronaut and Space Shuttle commander
Born
November 12th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 87 years old

Richard H. Truly served as a NASA astronaut and made significant contributions to the United States' space exploration efforts. He participated in multiple space missions, including the first flight of the Space Shuttle Challenger. He commanded the STS-2 mission, which was the second flight of the Space Shuttle program, and he also flew on the STS-1 mission, the inaugural Space Shuttle flight. In addition to his work as an astronaut, he held several key positions within NASA, including Associate Administrator for Space Operations and Administrator of NASA.

Continue Reading

Ian Graham

Archaeologist and explorer of Maya sites
Born
November 12th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

An archaeologist and explorer focused on the Maya civilization. Conducted extensive research and excavation of ancient sites, notably in Guatemala and Belize. Contributed to understanding of Maya hieroglyphics and architecture, publishing numerous articles and books on the subject. Helped in the conservation of historic sites, enhancing their accessibility for study and tourism. His work influenced the field of Mesoamerican archaeology and fostered greater appreciation for Maya heritage.

Continue Reading

Harry Blackmun

U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Roe v. Wade
Born
November 12th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old

Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1970 to 1994. Appointed by President Richard Nixon, contributed significantly to the Court's deliberations on various constitutional issues. Authored the majority opinion in Roe v. Wade, which established a woman's legal right to abortion. His tenure included involvement in landmark cases pertaining to civil rights, capital punishment, and the First Amendment. Retired from the Court in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy on American law.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 28th

Rafael Díaz Ycaza

Ecuadorian journalist and author
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2013 11 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to Ecuador's literary and journalistic landscape. Authored several influential works that explored social and political issues within Ecuador. Served as a notable figure in the journalism community, advocating for freedom of expression and the importance of literature in society.

Continue Reading

Glenn Cornick

English Bass Player and Founder of Jethro Tull
Born
April 23rd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2014 10 years ago — 67 years old

An English bass player co-founded the progressive rock band Jethro Tull in 1967. He contributed significantly to the band's early albums, including 'Stand Up' and 'Benefit,' showcasing a mix of rock, folk, and classical influences. After leaving Jethro Tull in 1970, formed the band 'Wild Turkey,' which released several albums throughout the 1970s. Cornick's style influenced the sound of rock music during his era. Later years saw collaborations with various artists and participation in reunions of Jethro Tull members. His musical contributions left a lasting legacy in the genre.

Continue Reading

Junípero Serra

Spanish missionary and founder of missions
Born
November 24th, 1713 311 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1784 240 years ago — 70 years old

A Spanish priest and missionary, this individual played a crucial role in establishing missions in California during the 18th century. Arriving in the New World in 1749, he dedicated himself to the spread of Christianity among the Indigenous peoples. Throughout his life, he founded nine missions, including Mission San Diego de Alcalá and Mission San Juan Capistrano. His work not only aimed to convert locals but also to introduce European agricultural practices. The missions established by this individual significantly shaped the cultural landscape of California. In 1988, he was beatified by the Roman Catholic Church and later canonized in 2015.

Continue Reading

Augustine of Hippo

Theologian and Bishop of Hippo
Born
November 13th, 354 1670 years ago
Died
August 28th, 430 1594 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the Bishop of Hippo in North Africa and became a significant theologian in early Christianity. Writings included 'Confessions' and 'The City of God', addressing key theological issues such as original sin and divine grace. His works laid the foundation for much of Western Christian thought and philosophy. Engagements with Manichaeism and other philosophies shaped his later theological positions. Died in 430 during the Vandals' siege of Hippo.

Continue Reading

Phil Hill

Race car driver and 1961 F1 champion
Born
April 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2008 16 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent race car driver, achieved significant success in the world of motorsport. Competed in Formula One and became the first American driver to win the F1 World Championship in 1961, driving for Scuderia Ferrari. During a career spanning over two decades, participated in various prestigious races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Established a reputation for skill in endurance racing, contributing to the advancement of automotive performance and engineering.

Continue Reading

Bruce Catton

American historian and author of Civil War works
Born
October 9th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1978 46 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent historian focused on the American Civil War, this individual gained recognition through a series of influential writings. The work 'A Stillness at Appomattox' earned a Pulitzer Prize in 1954. This author contributed significantly to the understanding of Civil War history through meticulous research and engaging narratives. Other notable works included 'Mr. Lincoln's Army' and 'The Civil War'.

Continue Reading