Miguel de Cervantes
Spanish novelist, poet, playwright
Wrote the seminal novel 'Don Quixote', widely considered one of the first modern novels. Cervantes's work combined realism with fantasy, exploring the adventures of a would-be knight and his loyal squire. The novel reflected the societal changes in early 17th-century Spain. Cervantes also authored various plays and poetry, contributing significantly to Spanish literature during the Golden Age.
Authored 'Don Quixote'
Wrote several influential plays
Contributed poetry in the Spanish Golden Age
Other People Born on September 29th
Lilias Armstrong
English phonetician and linguist
Born
September 29th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1937 88 years ago — 55 years old
Contributions to the field of phonetics focused on the English language. Authored influential works including 'Accents of English' and 'A Handbook of Phonetics'. Engaged in research and taught at various institutions, helping to shape the study of spoken language. Participated in the development of phonetic transcription systems and worked on enhancing the understanding of English pronunciation.
Continue ReadingHerbert Agar
American journalist and historian
Born
September 29th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1980 45 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to American historical literature as a journalist and historian. Focused on the relationship between the past and present in works of historical analysis. Wrote influential pieces that shaped the understanding of American democracy and its development. Engaged in various editorial roles which informed public discourse on historical events and their ramifications.
Continue ReadingPete McCloskey
American politician and environmental advocate
Born
September 29th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2024 1 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a United States Congressman representing California's 11th congressional district from 1967 to 1975. Played a significant role in the anti-war movement during the Vietnam War, advocating for peace and environmental conservation. Participated in various important legislative efforts related to environmental policies. After leaving Congress, continued to work on environmental issues and supported conservation initiatives throughout California.
Continue ReadingJoseph Banks Rhine
Parapsychologist and botanist, ESP research
Born
September 29th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions were pivotal in the field of parapsychology, particularly in the study of extrasensory perception (ESP). Established the foundation of scientific research into phenomena like telepathy and clairvoyance. Founded the Duke University Parapsychology Laboratory, which became a central institution for research in parapsychology. Authored several influential works on the subject, including 'Extrasensory Perception after Fifty Years', contributing to the popularity and academic interest in parapsychology during the mid-20th century. Additionally, conducted extensive studies in botany, focusing on plant genetics and environmental adaptations.
Continue ReadingMikhail Skobelev
Russian general in the Russo-Turkish War
Born
September 29th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
1882 144 years ago — 39 years old
Served as a major general in the Imperial Russian Army. Skobelev gained recognition during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, particularly for his leadership during the Siege of Plevna and his tactics at the Battle of Shipka Pass. His strategies contributed to significant victories and innovations in military operations. Skobelev was instrumental in the capture of Adrianople; his approach to warfare included the effective use of infantry and cavalry. After the war, he became a prominent figure in Russian military affairs until his death in 1882.
Continue ReadingMykhailo Hrushevskyi
Ukrainian historian and politician
Born
September 29th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1934 92 years ago — 68 years old
A significant figure in Ukraine's history, focused on Ukrainian nationalism and the development of Ukrainian historiography. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Ukrainian National Republic in the early 20th century. Contributed extensively to the understanding of Ukrainian culture and identity through various writings and lectures. Respected as a prominent intellectual in the Ukrainian national movement, advocating for political and social reforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 22nd
Donna Leanne Williams
Australian writer and autism advocate
Born
1963 63 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2017 8 years ago — 54 years old
An accomplished writer, artist, and activist focused on autism. Authored several books, including 'Nobody Nowhere,' which details personal experiences with autism. Engaged in artistic pursuits, creating various forms of visual art. Contributed to public discussions around autism and advocated for greater understanding and acceptance of autistic individuals. Offered insights into living with autism through both literary and artistic expressions.
Continue ReadingGuy Lafleur
Ice hockey player with Montreal Canadiens
Born
September 20th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2022 3 years ago — 70 years old
One of the most celebrated ice hockey players, this athlete played the majority of his career with the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League (NHL). During the 1970s and early 1980s, he became a key figure for the Canadiens, contributing to multiple Stanley Cup victories. His playing style combined skill, speed, and scoring ability, making him a fan favorite. After retiring from professional hockey, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1988, solidifying his legacy within the sport. He later returned briefly to the NHL and continued to be involved in various hockey-related activities until his passing in 2022.
Continue ReadingShirley Knight
American actress in film and theatre
Born
July 5th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2020 5 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished actress with a career spanning six decades. Major works include performances in 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs' on Broadway and the film 'Swept Away'. Garnered two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress. Involved in various television productions, earning multiple Emmy nominations and awards. Continued to act in film and stage productions until her passing.
Continue ReadingDick Balharry
Environmentalist and photographer
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
A Scottish environmentalist and photographer focused on the preservation of the natural landscape. Contributed significantly to the field of conservation through various initiatives aimed at protecting Scotland's wildlife and habitats. Engaged in numerous photographic projects that highlighted the beauty of Scotland's landscapes, bringing attention to environmental issues. Played a crucial role in promoting awareness of ecological challenges facing the region, often collaborating with conservation groups.
Continue ReadingHenry Royce
Engineer, co-founder of Rolls-Royce
Born
March 27th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1933 92 years ago — 70 years old
An English engineer and businessman co-founded Rolls-Royce Limited, a company recognized for manufacturing luxury automobiles and aircraft engines. Royce designed the renowned Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, which gained praise for its quality and excellence in engineering. The company became a leader in the automotive and aviation industries, developing advanced technologies that set high standards in performance and reliability. Royce's commitment to precision and craftsmanship significantly influenced automotive design and engineering practices.
Continue ReadingGeorg Stiernhielm
Swedish poet and linguist of classics
Born
August 7th, 1598 427 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1672 353 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Sweden in 1598, a prominent poet and linguist specialized in classical literature and language. Contributed to the development of Swedish as a literary language, advocating for its use in poetry and prose. Stiernhielm was a pioneer in incorporating classical themes and styles into Swedish literature. His works reflected a deep understanding of Latin and ancient Greek literature, often drawing from these influences to create original pieces in Swedish.
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