Paul Goodman
American author and playwright
An author, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to the fields of literature and education. Wrote the influential book 'Growing Up Absurd', which examined the dilemmas faced by youth in post-war America. Involved in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, promoting alternative educational methods and social reform. His works often focused on themes of modern life, societal norms, and individual fulfillment. Advocated for the integration of arts into education and criticized conventional schooling methods.
Wrote 'Growing Up Absurd'
Published numerous poems and essays
Contributed to the founding of the Free School movement
Other People Born on September 9th
Thomas de Ros
English soldier and politician
Born
September 9th, 1427 598 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1464 561 years ago — 36 years old
9th Baron de Ros served as an English soldier and politician during the 15th century. Participated in the Hundred Years' War, aligning with the Yorkists during the Wars of the Roses. Engaged in military conflicts including the Battle of Towton in 1461, a significant confrontation in the civil war between York and Lancaster. Held the positions of Parliamentary representative and peer, contributing to the political landscape of England.
Continue ReadingDennis Ritchie
Computer Scientist, created C language
Born
September 9th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to computer science by creating the C programming language, a foundational language for modern software development. Co-developed the Unix operating system, which has influenced many others and led to the development of various programming innovations. Worked at Bell Labs, collaborating with other prominent scientists in the field. Authored several influential texts and guides on computer programming.
Continue ReadingFred Spofforth
Cricketer and cricket pioneer
Born
September 9th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1926 99 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent cricketer, contributed to the development of bowling tactics, leading from the front as a fast bowler. Debuted for Australia in 1877 and played a significant role in the first-ever Test match. Represented New South Wales and earned respect for exceptional skills on the field. Made several notable performances against England, influencing future generations of bowlers. Played a critical role in the early establishment of international cricket.
Continue ReadingSylvia Miles
Actress from 'Midnight Cowboy'
Born
September 9th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old
An American actress, recognized for performances in film and theater. Gained significant attention for roles in 'Midnight Cowboy' and 'Farewell, My Lovely'. Achieved acclaim for her work on stage, earning two Tony Awards for Best Featured Actress in a Play. Participated in various productions, showcasing talent across genres.
Continue ReadingMiriam Licette
English soprano and educator
Born
September 9th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1969 56 years ago — 83 years old
Premiered at the Royal Opera House and performed major roles in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'The Marriage of Figaro'. Worked as a vocal teacher, influencing many aspiring singers. Held a notable position in music education, contributing to the training and development of the next generation of performers. Participated in performances across Europe.
Continue ReadingBruno E. Jacob
Forensic education pioneer and founder
Born
September 9th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 80 years old
An academic played a significant role in the development of competitive forensic activities in the United States. Founded the National Forensic League in 1925, which became a prominent organization promoting debate and speech competitions across the nation. Worked to expand opportunities for students to engage in public speaking and critical thinking through various forensic tournaments. Contributed to educational practices in the realm of communication arts, emphasizing the importance of these skills in personal and professional development.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 2nd
Elizabeth of Görlitz
Duchess and consort of Luxemburg
Born
1390 636 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1451 574 years ago — 61 years old
Born in Görlitz, became the Duchess of Luxemburg through marriage. Married Sigismund, Holy Roman Emperor, in 1404, strengthening political ties in Central Europe. Actively involved in civic and religious affairs, worked towards peace in the region. Her life coincided with significant events, including the Hussite Wars and the rise of the Bohemian Kingdom. Died in 1451 in Hungary.
Continue ReadingHenry III of France
King of France, Wars of Religion
Born
September 19th, 1551 474 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1589 436 years ago — 37 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1574 until assassination in 1589. Engaged in the French Wars of Religion, which was a series of civil wars primarily between Catholics and Huguenots. Ruling during a tumultuous period, implemented policies aimed at maintaining peace between the rival factions. Promoted the royal authority and navigated the complexities of a divided nation. His reign is marked by political intrigue and the challenges of unifying a fractured country.
Continue ReadingWallace Stevens
American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
October 2nd, 1879 146 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1955 70 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1879, a prominent American poet whose work bridged the gap between modernism and traditional forms. Employed as an insurance executive while creating a significant body of poetry, focusing on themes of imagination and reality. The collection 'Harmonium,' published in 1923, established a lasting reputation. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1955 for 'The Collected Poems of Wallace Stevens.' His poetry often employs vivid imagery and philosophical undertones, contributing to discussions on aesthetics and the role of imagination in life.
Continue ReadingJacques-Étienne Montgolfier
Inventor of the hot air balloon
Born
1745 281 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1799 226 years ago — 54 years old
Co-invented the hot air balloon alongside his brother Joseph-Michel. The first successful flight of their invention took place on September 19, 1783, in Annonay, France, achieving an altitude of approximately 3,000 feet. The Montgolfier brothers demonstrated their invention publicly, which captured the imagination of audiences and laid the groundwork for future developments in aeronautics. Their contributions significantly advanced the field of flight, marking a pivotal moment in the history of aviation.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Borromini
Swiss architect, designed notable churches
Born
September 25th, 1599 426 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1667 358 years ago — 67 years old
An influential architect primarily active in Rome, recognized for innovative Baroque architecture. Major works include the church of San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, showcasing a complex plan and dynamic forms. Also designed Sant'Agnese in Agone, notable for its elaborate facade and interior. His work often featured unique spatial layouts and an interplay of light and shadow, setting a template for subsequent Baroque architecture.
Continue ReadingPope John V
Pope during the early Christian Church
Died
August 2nd, 686 1339 years ago — None years old
Elected as Pope in 685, presided over a significant period in the early Christian Church. Crafted important church decrees and supported the ongoing consolidation of the papal authority. Maintained relations with various regions, particularly in the context of the Byzantine Empire. Died in 686, leaving a legacy of stability during a tumultuous period for the church.
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