Paul Éluard

French poet and Surrealist movement figure

Paul Éluard - French poet and Surrealist movement figure
Born

December 14th, 1895
129 years ago

Died

November 18th, 1952
72 years ago — 56 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

Born in 1895, this poet became one of the founders of the Surrealist movement in literature. His works often explored themes of love and freedom, and he was a significant presence in the literary scene during the early to mid-20th century. Many of his poems reflect personal experiences, particularly during and after World War I. Éluard published numerous collections, with some of the most notable including 'Capitale de la douleur' and 'Les Uns et les Autres.' His writings not only contributed to the Surrealist literary landscape but also influenced subsequent generations of poets and writers in France and beyond.

Published 'Capitale de la douleur' in 1926

Contributed to the Surrealist movement

Authored 'Les Uns et les Autres'

Other People Born on December 14th

André Couto

Race car driver in the World Series
Born
December 14th, 1976 48 years ago

Born in Portugal, pursued a career in professional motorsport. Competed in various racing series, establishing a reputation in the World Series by Renault. Transitioned into endurance racing, showcasing skills in prestigious events. Participated in notable competitions, contributing to efforts in team racing dynamics. Gained experience in both open-wheel and sports car racing, representing various teams throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Go-Suzaku

Emperor of Japan during the Heian period
Born
December 14th, 1009 1015 years ago
Died
1045 980 years ago — 36 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1036. Ruled during a time marked by courtly culture and the flourishing of literature and the arts. Reigned until abdication in 1045, after which continued to hold influential positions within the court. His reign is noted for the ongoing stability of the Heian period and fostering the arts, including poetry and prose.

Continue Reading

Karl Renner

Austrian lawyer and politician, 4th President of Austria
Born
December 14th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Austrian lawyer and politician served as the 4th President of Austria from 1945 to 1950. Played a critical role in the establishment of the Second Republic of Austria after World War II. As a member of the Social Democratic Party, held various governmental positions, including the role of Chancellor. Contributed to the drafting of the Austrian State Treaty, which restored Austria's sovereignty.

Continue Reading

Pat Burke

Irish basketball player with NBA experience
Born
December 14th, 1973 51 years ago

A professional basketball player began career in Europe before joining the NBA. Played for the Orlando Magic during the 2002-2003 season, becoming the first Irish player to play in the league. Returned to Europe to play for various teams after NBA tenure. Advocated for basketball development in Ireland post-retirement.

Continue Reading

Hans von Ohain

Physicist and engineer of jet propulsion
Born
December 14th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 86 years old

A German-American physicist and engineer primarily associated with the development of the turbojet engine. Contributions to aviation technology included designing the world's first operational turbojet engine, which powered the Heinkel He 178, the first jet-powered aircraft to fly successfully in 1939. After World War II, immigration to the United States led to further research and development in aerospace technology, including work for major corporations such as North American Aviation and NASA. He held more than 60 patents in the field of propulsion systems.

Continue Reading

Ruth Fuchs

Javelin thrower and politician
Born
December 14th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent javelin thrower who competed for East Germany, made significant achievements in international athletics. Won a gold medal at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and set multiple world records during the 1970s. Transitioned into a political career after retiring from sports, holding a seat in the Bundestag and advocating for athletes' rights.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 18th

Gustáv Husák

Slovak politician, 9th President of Czechoslovakia
Born
January 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1991 33 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the 9th President of Czechoslovakia from 1975 to 1989. Played a significant role in the socialist government and was a member of the Communist Party. Held the position of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Slovakia. Participated in the Prague Spring of 1968, later leading to his temporary removal from power during the Warsaw Pact invasion. Eventually returned to prominence, shaping the political landscape until the fall of communism in central Europe.

Continue Reading

Jacques Anquetil

Cyclist and Tour de France champion
Born
January 8th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1987 37 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent cyclist, achieved significant success during the 1950s and 1960s primarily in road racing. Anquetil was the first cyclist to win the Tour de France five times, with victories in 1957, 1961, 1962, 1963, and 1964. Known for his time trialing abilities and tactful racing style, he contributed to the evolution of cycling strategy during stage races. In addition to his Tour de France titles, Anquetil claimed multiple victories in one-day races and other multi-stage events, establishing a legacy in the sport of cycling. His achievements placed him among the elite figures in competitive cycling history.

Continue Reading

Charles Dumont

French singer and composer of chansons
Born
March 26th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in French music, this singer and composer emerged in the 1950s and gained recognition for contributions to the chanson genre. Created numerous songs that became classics in French culture, with notable works including 'La Vie en rose' and 'Parce que je t'aime.' Collaborated with various artists and provided songs for films, enriching the soundtracks of his time. His style often blended romantic themes with poetic lyrics, appealing to a wide audience in France and beyond.

Continue Reading

Abdelhamid Abaaoud

Terrorist linked to Paris attacks
Born
1987 38 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2015 9 years ago — 28 years old

Involvement in planning and executing the November 2015 Paris attacks marked a significant act of terrorism in Europe. As a key figure in the Islamic State's operations in Europe, orchestrated attacks that resulted in widespread casualties, showcasing a high level of organization and terror tactics. Abaaoud was killed in a police raid in Saint-Denis, France, shortly after the attacks, which were among the deadliest in modern French history. His background included connections to radical networks and a return to Europe after fighting in Syria.

Continue Reading

S. R. D. Vaidyanathan

Nadaswaram player and composer
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
November 18th, 2013 11 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent nadaswaram player and composer, contributions to Carnatic music were significant. Born in India, developed a distinct style that blended traditional techniques with innovative compositions. Performed at numerous temple festivals and concerts, enhancing the cultural heritage of South Indian music. Recognized for exceptional skill and dedication to the art form, inspired countless musicians and students.

Continue Reading

V. O. Chidambaram Pillai

Indian lawyer and freedom fighter
Born
September 5th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1936 88 years ago — 64 years old

An influential lawyer and politician significantly contributed to India's independence movement. Served as a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress, advocating for civil rights and economic freedom. Established the Swadeshi Shipping Company in 1906, which marked an effort to promote indigenous goods and services. Instrumental in organizing protests against British colonial policies, particularly the partition of Bengal. Arrested multiple times for participation in the freedom struggle, showcasing a lifelong commitment to India's sovereignty.

Continue Reading