Neil Peart
Drummer and lyricist for Rush
A prominent drummer and lyricist, contributed significantly to the Canadian rock band Rush. Joined the band in 1974 and became celebrated for intricate drumming and thought-provoking lyrics. Collaborated closely with band members to produce albums that received critical acclaim. Integral to the band's success, Peart's work spanned several decades until the band's retirement in 2015. Authored several books, particularly travel narratives and memoirs.
Drummed for Rush, contributing to albums like '2112' and 'Moving Pictures'
Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Tom Sawyer' and 'Spirit of Radio'
Authored books including 'Ghost Rider' and 'Far and Wide'
Other People Born on September 12th
Vernon Maxwell
Basketball player; two-time NBA champion
Born
September 12th, 1965 60 years ago
Played for the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. Contributed to the Rockets' championship victories in 1994 and 1995. Recognized for scoring ability and defensive skills. Had a career average of 14.3 points per game over 13 seasons. His time with the Rockets included key moments in playoff performances that led to the team's success in the mid-1990s.
Continue ReadingPaul Walker
Actor in the Fast & Furious franchise
Born
September 12th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 40 years old
An American actor became widely recognized for roles in the Fast & Furious film series, portraying the character Brian O'Conner. Walker's acting career began in the early 1990s, with appearances in television and film. He gained significant fame for his performance in the Fast & Furious franchise, which began in 2001 and evolved into a global phenomenon over multiple sequels. Beyond acting, he founded Reach Out Worldwide, a non-profit organization providing aid to disaster-stricken areas. Walker's life was tragically cut short in a car accident in 2013, but his legacy continues through both his film work and philanthropic efforts.
Continue ReadingFrancis I of France
King and patron of the arts
Born
September 12th, 1494 531 years ago
Died
1547 478 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the King of France from 1515 until death in 1547. Initiated the Renaissance in France by supporting arts and culture. Expanded the royal domain and strengthened the monarchy. Engaged in military campaigns against Charles V and led the French in the Italian Wars. Fostered relationships with artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, who moved to France under his patronage. Built the Château de Chambord, a symbol of Renaissance architecture.
Continue ReadingIstván Horthy
Hungarian fighter pilot and deputy regent
Born
September 12th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1942 83 years ago — 37 years old
Served as a fighter pilot during World War II, participating in various missions in the Eastern Front. Held the position of deputy regent of Hungary under Miklós Horthy from 1944 until the end of the war. Involved in political and military affairs during a tumultuous period in Hungarian history. Post-war, faced challenges as Hungary transitioned away from a monarchy.
Continue ReadingStanisław Lem
Science fiction author and philosopher
Born
September 12th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2006 19 years ago — 84 years old
A prolific author and thinker, this individual wrote extensively in the genre of science fiction, blending philosophical themes with imaginative narratives. Works include the novel 'Solaris', which explores complex interactions between humans and extraterrestrial intelligence, and 'The Cyberiad', a collection of stories focused on the adventures of two constructors in a robot universe. Contributions spanned essays and critiques on technology and futurism, influencing both literature and science. Engaged in discussions on artificial intelligence, technology's role in society, and the nature of humanity.
Continue ReadingRobert Irwin
American painter and environmental artist
Born
September 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old
Born in 1928, this artist became a prominent figure in the world of contemporary art, primarily recognized for innovative installations that integrate light and space. A graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, he began his career as a painter but later transitioned into creating immersive environments that challenge perceptions and engage with the viewer's experience of space. His work often reflects a deep sensitivity to the surrounding environment, utilizing natural elements to enhance the artistic experience. Throughout his career, he has exhibited in several prestigious venues and was associated with the Light and Space movement in California.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 7th
Theophilus Eaton
Governed New Haven Colony as governor
Born
1590 435 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1658 367 years ago — 68 years old
Settled in the New Haven Colony and served as its first governor from 1639 until his death in 1658. Played a significant role in establishing the colony's governance and social structure. Contributed to the founding of the colony along with other leaders, emphasizing a religious basis for governance. The colony attracted numerous settlers due to its established community and political stability under his leadership.
Continue ReadingFranz Beckenbauer
Football player and manager, World Cup winner
Born
September 11th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent football player and manager associated with German football. Played as a defender for Bayern Munich and the German national team. Captained West Germany to victory in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. Concluded playing career in 1982. Transitioned to management, leading the national team to success in the 1990 FIFA World Cup and managing Bayern Munich to multiple Bundesliga titles. Became a significant figure in European football thereafter.
Continue ReadingTewfik Pasha
Egyptian ruler and Khedive of Egypt
Born
November 15th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1892 133 years ago — 39 years old
Served as Khedive of Egypt from 1879 until 1892, governing during a period of significant political and economic challenges. Oversaw the modernization efforts initiated by predecessors, focusing on infrastructure and agriculture while navigating increased foreign intervention. Faced rising national sentiments and economic difficulties, most notably during the British occupation of Egypt. Under his rule, Egypt experienced financial crises that resulted in foreign control over finances.
Continue ReadingRaffaello Fabretti
Italian scholar and author of antiquities
Born
1618 407 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1700 325 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of ancient Roman inscriptions and archaeology. Authored multiple works that detailed Roman antiquities, including the influential text 'De Aquis et Aqueductibus Veteris Urbis Romae'. Worked as a scholar in Rome, where extensive research on ancient Rome's water systems and infrastructure took place. Played a vital role in the field of epigraphy, and his studies offered insights into the civilization's engineering and public works.
Continue ReadingPeter Vischer the Elder
German sculptor, renowned for altarpieces
Born
1455 570 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1529 496 years ago — 74 years old
A German sculptor active during the late Gothic period, significant contributions included the creation of numerous altarpieces and religious sculptures. Vischer operated a workshop in Nuremberg, where he and his team produced distinctive works characterized by intricate details and elaborate designs. The most notable work remains the famous bronze altar for St. Sebaldus Church in Nuremberg, completed in 1519. Vischer's artistic style exemplified the transition from medieval to Renaissance elements in sculpture.
Continue ReadingPeter Yarrow
Singer-songwriter and folk musician
Born
May 31st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2025 0 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in the American folk music revival, contributed significantly to the genre. Co-founded the trio Peter, Paul and Mary, which achieved major success during the 1960s. Their music often addressed social issues and played a role in the civil rights movement. Participated in various concerts and events promoting peace and social justice. Yarrow also pursued a solo career, producing works that continued to reflect themes of love and understanding.
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