Peter Matthiessen
Novel Writer and Paris Review Co-founder
A prominent American novelist and short story writer, played a significant role in American literature through both creative writing and editorial work. Co-founded The Paris Review, a prestigious literary magazine that has published numerous acclaimed writers. Produced notable works blending fiction and non-fiction, often exploring nature and the human condition. Achieved recognition for both literary and environmental advocacy.
Co-founded The Paris Review
Published works such as 'At Play in the Fields of the Lord'
Won the National Book Award for 'Shadow Country'
Other People Born on May 22nd
Anthony Richardson
American football quarterback, Florida Gators
Born
May 22nd, 2002 23 years ago
Played college football as a quarterback for the Florida Gators. Achieved recognition for his athleticism and passing ability. Drafted in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Demonstrated strong performance during the NFL Combine, setting records for speed and agility at the quarterback position.
Continue ReadingAston Webb
Architect and designer of the Victoria Memorial
Born
May 22nd, 1849 176 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 81 years old
An English architect and academic, this individual played a pivotal role in the design and construction of several notable buildings in England. The most notable accomplishment includes the design of the Imperial Institute in London and the redevelopment of the façade of Buckingham Palace. His work spanned various architectural styles, particularly in the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, reflecting the cultural aspirations of the time. In addition to his architectural projects, contributions to architectural education and literature were significant aspects of this individual’s career.
Continue ReadingDaniel François Malan
South African Prime Minister
Born
May 22nd, 1874 151 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1959 66 years ago — 84 years old
A South African minister and politician served as Prime Minister from 1948 to 1954. Played a significant role in the establishment of apartheid policies during his tenure. Held office during a period of intense political change and faced both domestic and international criticism regarding the system he supported. After leaving office, continued to be involved in South African politics until retirement.
Continue ReadingChen Jingrun
Chinese mathematician and academic
Born
May 22nd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed significantly to number theory and prime number research. Achieved notable progress in Goldbach's conjecture, proving that every sufficiently large even integer can be expressed as the sum of a prime and a number with at most two prime factors. Worked at various educational institutions and published numerous papers in mathematics. Actively received recognition for advancements in analytical number theory.
Continue ReadingHergé
Comic artist of The Adventures of Tintin
Born
May 22nd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1983 42 years ago — 75 years old
Belgian author and illustrator created the comic series The Adventures of Tintin, which first appeared in 1929. The series follows the adventures of a young reporter named Tintin, his dog Snowy, and a variety of supporting characters. Hergé developed a unique drawing style characterized by clear lines and meticulous attention to detail. The comics gained international popularity and were translated into numerous languages. Hergé's work significantly influenced the comic book industry and introduced a distinctive narrative style.
Continue ReadingGeorge H. Heilmeier
Engineer and LCD technology pioneer
Born
May 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
April 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 77 years old
An engineer contributed significantly to liquid crystal display (LCD) technology. Served as director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) from 1975 to 1977, influencing defense research and technology development. Played a pivotal role in commercializing LCDs through work at RCA and later as a founder of several technology companies. His research helped lead to the development of various display technologies that are widely used in electronic devices today.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Hermann Joseph Muller
Geneticist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
December 21st, 1890 135 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1967 58 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American geneticist, significant contributions were made to the study of mutations and the impact of radiation on genetic material. Research in the early 20th century established foundational principles in genetics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1946 for discoveries regarding the effects of X-rays on the genetic material of living cells. Engaged in academic pursuits at various institutions, providing guidance to the next generation of geneticists.
Continue ReadingWilliam Derham
English minister and philosopher
Born
November 26th, 1657 368 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1735 290 years ago — 77 years old
A minister and philosopher, contributions included works in natural philosophy and the philosophy of religion. Published several books exploring the intersection of science and theology. Engaged in discussions regarding the nature of God through the lens of natural philosophy, emphasizing the created world as a reflection of divine attributes.
Continue ReadingChiang Kai-shek
Chinese general and politician, 1st President
Born
October 31st, 1887 138 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1975 50 years ago — 87 years old
Led the Nationalist government in China during the early to mid-20th century. Played a key role in the Second Sino-Japanese War by coordinating Chinese resistance against Japanese forces. After the Chinese Civil War, retreated to Taiwan, where established a separate government. Implemented various policies to modernize Taiwan's economy and maintain martial law until 1987.
Continue ReadingEdward Young
English poet and author of Night Thoughts
Born
July 3rd, 1683 342 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1765 260 years ago — 81 years old
Originated from England, this poet and author gained prominence in the early 18th century. 'Night Thoughts', a philosophical poem reflecting on life, death, and immortality, stands as the most significant contribution to English literature. The lengthy poem was published in several parts between 1742 and 1745, exploring deep existential themes. The work was widely read and contributed to discussions about mortality and the afterlife during the Enlightenment period. Additionally, other works included 'The Complaint: or, Night-Thoughts on Life, Death, and Immortality'. This literary figure's influence extended beyond poetry, marking a notable period in the transition from metaphysical to romantic poetry.
Continue ReadingErich Zeigner
Prime Minister of Saxony
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1949 76 years ago — 63 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Saxony during a turbulent period in German history. Involved in the establishment of policies aimed at social reforms in the late Weimar Republic. Became a member of the Socialist Unity Party after World War II and contributed to the reconstruction of East Germany. His tenure included dealing with the challenges posed by post-war conditions and the transition into a communist system.
Continue ReadingLayne Staley
Lead vocalist of Alice in Chains
Born
August 22nd, 1967 58 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 34 years old
An American singer-songwriter gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the rock band Alice in Chains. Originating from Seattle, the band became a prominent figure in the grunge music scene of the early 1990s. Staley's distinctive vocal style and emotive lyrics contributed significantly to the band's success. The group achieved commercial acclaim with hit albums such as 'Dirt' and 'Jar of Flies.' Staley's battle with addiction was well-documented and affected both his personal life and career. He passed away in 2002, leaving a lasting legacy within the rock genre.
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