Ogden Nash
American poet and whimsical humorist
A prominent figure in American poetry, contributed to the literary landscape with light verse characterized by playful language and inventive rhymes. Published more than 500 pieces, often featured in magazines such as The New Yorker. Works include "The Cow" and "The Tale of Custard the Dragon." Developed a unique style that made poetry accessible to a wider audience. Held a reputation for sharp wit and insightful observations on human nature and society. In addition to poetry, engaged in writing for musicals and adaptations, broadening influence beyond traditional poetry.
Published over 500 poems
Wrote "The Cow" and "The Tale of Custard the Dragon"
Contributed to The New Yorker
Other People Born on August 19th
Tom Wills
Australian cricketer and football co-creator
Born
August 19th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1880 146 years ago — 44 years old
An Australian cricketer and a key figure in the formation of Australian rules football contributed significantly to the sport's early development. Played as a bowler and batsman for the Melbourne Cricket Club and participated in the first-ever intercolonial match in 1851. In 1858, played a pivotal role in creating Australian rules football while serving as a cricketer. Involved in the establishment of the first set of rules for the new game, which later evolved into a distinct sport.
Continue ReadingSteve Ott
Ice Hockey Player for the NHL
Born
August 19th, 1982 43 years ago
A former professional ice hockey player, played as a forward in the NHL. He had a career spanning from 2002 to 2016, primarily competing with teams such as the Dallas Stars, Buffalo Sabres, and Montreal Canadiens. Ott served as team captain for the Sabres and played a notable role in contributing to team dynamics, including leadership on and off the ice. Known for physical play and strong defensive skills, he also had playmaking abilities.
Continue ReadingSotiris Balafas
Greek footballer, AEK Athens player
Born
August 19th, 1986 39 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a defender. Initiated career with AEK Athens, contributing to the team during pivotal matches. Played in various Greek leagues and made significant appearances in European competitions, demonstrating strong defensive skills and tactical awareness. Had experience with several clubs in Greece, enhancing the competitive nature of the leagues.
Continue ReadingKevin Rans
Belgian pole vaulter with notable records
Born
August 19th, 1982 43 years ago
A pole vaulter, achieved significant success in athletics, particularly in pole vault competitions. Competed in various European championships and earned a reputation within the sport through consistent performances. Participated in major events, representing Belgium and contributing to the country's presence in athletics on international stages.
Continue ReadingSaint Alphonsa
Canonized saint of Indian origin
Born
August 19th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1946 79 years ago — 35 years old
This individual was the first woman of Indian origin to be canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church. Born in Kerala in 1910, she joined the Congregation of the Franciscan Servants of Mary. Throughout life, faced various challenges including health issues. She devoted her life to spiritual practices and education, making significant contributions to her community. Following her death on July 28, 1946, the process of canonization began, culminating in her sainthood in 2008.
Continue ReadingJohn Dryden
English poet and playwright, 'Absalom and Achitophel'
Born
August 19th, 1631 394 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1700 326 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in English literature, this individual contributed significantly as a poet, literary critic, and playwright. Sovereign Poet Laureate from 1668, worked during the Restoration period. Notable works include the play 'All for Love' and the poem 'Absalom and Achitophel', which reflect the political and social themes of the time. Engaged in literary criticism and established principles of drama and poetry that shaped English literature. His career also included writing for the stage and participation in political satire, showing a strong influence on subsequent generations of writers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 19th
Phil Lamason
New Zealand soldier and pilot with a heroic role
Born
September 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2012 14 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a pilot in the Royal New Zealand Air Force during World War II. Participated in missions in the Pacific theater and became a prisoner of war after being shot down. During captivity, led a group of Allied airmen in escape efforts from a Japanese prison camp. Post-war, received recognition for bravery and leadership. Contributed to veterans' organizations, supporting fellow servicemen.
Continue ReadingClaude Henri de Rouvroy
Economist and philosopher, Saint-Simon
Born
October 17th, 1760 265 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1825 201 years ago — 64 years old
Born in France, one of the prominent figures in early socialism. Developed theories on industrial society and the role of the industrial class in social progress. Advocated for a new social order that emphasized the importance of productive work and the coordination of industry. Founded the Saint-Simonian movement, which influenced socialist thought and later socialist movements across Europe. Writings included 'The New Christianity' and 'The Industrial System', which emphasized scientific and industrial development as key to societal advancement.
Continue ReadingColeman Hawkins
American jazz saxophonist and bandleader
Born
November 21st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1969 57 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributions to the genre included pioneering the tenor saxophone as a solo instrument. Initially played with the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra in the 1920s and became a central figure in the jazz scene. Recorded the landmark album 'Body and Soul' in 1939, which is considered one of the defining works of jazz improvisation. Collaborated with numerous renowned musicians and participated in the bebop movement in the 1940s.
Continue ReadingAuguste Molinier
French librarian and historian
Born
1851 175 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1904 122 years ago — 53 years old
Specialized in the history of literature and libraries, held the position of librarian at the Bibliothèque nationale de France. Contributed to the field through the publication of several works, including 'Les Bibliothèques en France', which analyzed library systems. Actively engaged in various historical societies and contributed to the cataloging of manuscripts. Served as a member of the Société des Bibliophiles françois, promoting bibliography and literature studies.
Continue ReadingJadunath Sarkar
Indian historian and biographer
Born
December 10th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1958 68 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of history, focusing primarily on the Mughal Empire. Authored several foundational texts including 'History of Aurangzeb' and 'Rise and Fall of the Mughal Empire'. Served as a professor of history at the University of Calcutta, shaping the study of Indian history through rigorous methodologies. Developed a reputation as a leading scholar and critic of earlier historiography, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of India's past. Engaged in various academic pursuits and contributed to the establishment of history as a formal discipline in India.
Continue ReadingPhilipp Bouhler
German politician and Nazi official
Born
September 11th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1945 81 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1899, served as a prominent member of the Nazi Party holding significant positions during the regime. Played a key role in the administration of the T4 program, which involved the forced euthanasia of individuals deemed 'unworthy of life.' Actively participated in the organization of the Nazi government and held various responsibilities influencing policy and operations. Remained involved in the party until its collapse in 1945.
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