Pedro Calderón de la Barca

Spanish playwright, author of 'Life is a Dream'

Pedro Calderón de la Barca - Spanish playwright, author of 'Life is a Dream'
Born

January 17th, 1600
425 years ago

Died

May 25th, 1681
344 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Spain

Links & References

Born in 1600, this individual became a prominent figure in Spanish literature, particularly during the Golden Age. His extensive body of work included over 200 plays, with notable contributions to both comedies and dramas. One of the most significant works is 'La vida es sueño' ('Life is a Dream'), a philosophical play that explores fate and freedom. He also wrote 'El alcalde de Zalamea', which reflects themes of honor and social justice. In addition to plays, compositions of poetry added to his literary stature. His influence extended to theater conventions and dramatic structures, solidifying his place in literary history.

Authored 'La vida es sueño'

Wrote over 200 plays

Composed notable poetry

Other People Born on January 17th

François-Joseph Gossec

French composer and conductor
Born
January 17th, 1734 291 years ago
Died
1829 196 years ago — 95 years old

A significant figure in the development of French symphonic music during the 18th century. Contributed to the evolution of the symphony and chamber music, with a style that bridged the gap between Baroque and Classical traditions. Served as a conductor and composed various works, including symphonies, operas, and choral music. Played a key role in establishing a French national style in classical music and influenced many contemporaries.

Continue Reading

Johann Gottfried Müthel

German pianist and composer of keyboard works
Born
January 17th, 1728 297 years ago
Died
1788 237 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1728, contributed significantly to the music repertoire of the late Baroque and early Classical periods. Müthel studied under renowned composers, including Johann Sebastian Bach. As a composer, he created a variety of keyboard works, which showcased his skill as a pianist. His compositions exhibit the stylistic transitions of the era and reflect the influence of Bach's musical legacy. Müthel also gained recognition as a performer, particularly in the courts and salons of Germany. His works were published during his lifetime, following the tradition of many prominent composers of the period.

Continue Reading

Harry Price

Psychologist and author of paranormal studies
Born
January 17th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1948 77 years ago — 67 years old

An English psychologist and author, contributed to the field of psychology with a focus on the paranormal. Prices' work involved investigating spiritualism and other phenomena, and he authored several books that scrutinized claims of paranormal activity. One of his notable works includes 'Poltergeist Over England', which explores reports of poltergeist activity across the English countryside. Price also established the National Laboratory of Psychical Research in London, where he conducted experiments and research in the realms of psychical phenomena.

Continue Reading

Mark Steketee

Australian cricketer, domestic champion
Born
January 17th, 1994 31 years ago

Played professional cricket in Australia, primarily as a fast bowler. Represented Queensland in domestic competitions. Contributed to the team's success in the Sheffield Shield, a prestigious first-class cricket tournament in Australia. Made significant contributions during matches, showcasing skills in both bowling and fielding.

Continue Reading

Kai Hansen

German guitarist and metal vocalist
Born
January 17th, 1963 62 years ago

A significant figure in the heavy metal genre, contributed to the establishment of the power metal style through work with bands. Formed the band Helloween in 1984, which became pivotal in the development of this style. Later founded the band Gamma Ray, which achieved acclaim within the metal community. Hansen's influence extends through his musicianship and songwriting, showcasing a distinctive blend of melody and speed.

Continue Reading

William Backhouse

English alchemist and astrologer
Born
January 17th, 1593 432 years ago
Died
1662 363 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1593, this individual achieved recognition as an alchemist and astrologer, contributing significantly to the fields of natural philosophy and esoteric science. Active during the early 17th century, the work involved experimentation and the exploration of the cosmos's influence on earthly matters. This individual published several texts that combined alchemical practices with astrological insights, influencing later thinkers and practitioners in these fields.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 25th

Sunil Dutt

Indian actor and politician, Dutt
Born
June 6th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 75 years old

An Indian actor, director, producer, and politician, achieved prominence in Hindi cinema from the 1950s through the 1980s. Made memorable appearances in movies such as 'Mother India' and 'Mujhe Jeene Do'. Directed films like 'Yaadein' and served as a Member of Parliament representing the Congress Party. Established a charitable organization focused on social issues, including disaster relief and supporting those affected by leprosy.

Continue Reading

John Spenkelink

American murderer involved in a high-profile case
Born
March 29th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1979 46 years ago — 30 years old

Born in 1949, Spenkelink was sentenced to death in Florida for the murder of a man named Richard L. McCauley in 1973. The trial garnered significant media attention and sparked debates around the death penalty. Spenkelink became the first person executed in Florida after a 1972 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that had temporarily halted the death penalty in the United States. His case highlighted issues related to legal representation and sentencing in capital cases.

Continue Reading

John Griffin

Field Marshal, 4th Baron Howard de Walden
Born
March 13th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1797 228 years ago — 78 years old

Held the title of 4th Baron Howard de Walden and served as an English field marshal and politician. Acted as the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, overseeing the county's administration during a significant part of the 18th century. Commanded military forces and participated in various military activities that contributed to the governance of England. Involved in political discussions that shaped local and national policies. Represented the aristocracy in military and civilian spheres, adhering to the responsibilities of a peer during this period.

Continue Reading

Idris of Libya

Libyan King and political leader
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1983 42 years ago — 94 years old

Ruled Libya as king from 1951 until 1969, overseeing the country's transition to independence from Italian colonial rule. Focused on national development and modernization, promoting education and infrastructure projects. Dealt with opposition from political factions, which ultimately led to the overthrow by a military coup in 1969. Spent the remaining years in exile until death in 1983.

Continue Reading

Claus von Bülow

Danish-British socialite and legal figure
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2019 6 years ago — 93 years old

Influenced a high-profile legal case in the United Kingdom. Became the subject of a sensational trial regarding the alleged attempted murder of his wife, Sunny von Bülow, in the 1980s. The case drew significant media attention and public interest, highlighting issues of wealth, privilege, and the judicial system. von Bülow was initially convicted but was later acquitted on appeal. The case inspired the film 'Reversal of Fortune,' released in 1990, which further cemented the story's place in popular culture.

Continue Reading

Chester Bowles

American diplomat and ambassador
Born
April 5th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1986 39 years ago — 85 years old

A diplomat and ambassador, played a significant role in American foreign policy during the mid-20th century. Served as United States Ambassador to India from 1963 to 1969, fostering U.S.-India relations. Worked with President Franklin D. Roosevelt as well as President John F. Kennedy, contributing to international diplomacy during the Cold War. Held various government positions, including Director of the Office of Price Administration and Under Secretary of State. Also involved in politics as a member of the Democratic Party, and ran for Governor of Connecticut.

Continue Reading