Philippe de Champaigne

Dutch-French painter, religious works

Philippe de Champaigne - Dutch-French painter, religious works
Born

May 26th, 1602
422 years ago

Died

August 12th, 1674
350 years ago — 72 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

Born in 1602, this artist became prominent in the Baroque style, particularly in religious paintings. The artist created numerous altarpieces and portraits for churches and nobility. A significant contribution to the genre included the depiction of saints and biblical scenes, characterized by dramatic lighting and vivid detail. The artist's works had a substantial influence on the visual arts of the period, merging realism with spiritual themes.

Created altarpieces for various churches

Produced notable portraits of French nobility

Other People Born on May 26th

Genie Francis

Actress from General Hospital
Born
May 26th, 1962 62 years ago

Born in 1962, an actress gained prominence through a significant role in the soap opera 'General Hospital'. Starting her career at a young age, she joined the cast in the late 1970s and quickly became a key character. The portrayal of Laura Spencer contributed to the show's fame, leading to landmark storylines, including the iconic 'Luke and Laura' wedding. This event remains one of the most-watched episodes in soap opera history. In addition to soap operas, she appeared in various television films and series throughout the 1980s and 1990s, showcasing versatility in different genres. Throughout her career, she earned several award nominations for her performances, securing a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Leading Actress in a Drama Series.

Continue Reading

Jay Silverheels

Actor best known for playing Tonto
Born
May 26th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1980 45 years ago — 67 years old

An actor recognized for portraying Tonto in the television series The Lone Ranger, Silverheels was one of the first Indigenous actors to gain fame in Hollywood. Silverheels, born in Canada, began his career in the entertainment industry as a professional lacrosse player before transitioning to acting in the 1940s. He appeared in various films, often playing Native American characters, contributing to the representation of Indigenous peoples in media. His role as Tonto from 1949 to 1957 made a significant cultural impact and set a precedent for future Indigenous actors. In addition to his work in film and television, Silverheels was an advocate for Indigenous rights and supported various charitable organizations.

Continue Reading

Mamie Smith

American singer and actress of 'Crazy Blues'
Born
May 26th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1883, this artist gained fame as a singer, actress, dancer, and pianist. Smith's recording of 'Crazy Blues' in 1920 marked a pivotal moment in music history, being one of the first records to feature a Black woman as a lead artist. This work helped to popularize the blues genre and opened doors for African American artists in the music industry. In addition to her music career, Smith performed in vaudeville and appeared in several films throughout the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing her talents as an entertainer. Smith's influence extended beyond her era, laying the groundwork for future generations of musicians and performers.

Continue Reading

Necip Fazıl Kısakürek

Turkish author and playwright
Born
May 26th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1983 41 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1904, engaged in poetry, playwriting, and social critique. Wrote influential works reflecting Islamic philosophy and Turkish nationalism. Founded the Turkish National Literature movement. Contributed to literature through journalism and activism. Left a significant legacy through poetry and political thought, shaping modern Turkish literature.

Continue Reading

Paul E. Patton

American politician, 59th Governor of Kentucky
Born
May 26th, 1937 87 years ago

Served as the 59th Governor of Kentucky from 1995 to 2003. Played a significant role in promoting economic development and educational reform within the state. During the tenure, emphasized infrastructure improvements and healthcare initiatives, contributing to state policy advancements. Engaged in various state and national political committees while serving in office.

Continue Reading

Anthony Ervin

Olympic swimmer and gold medalist
Born
May 26th, 1981 43 years ago

An accomplished swimmer, contributed to the sport with significant achievements in freestyle events. Competed in the 2000 and 2016 Olympics, winning gold in the 50-meter freestyle in both. Ervin also emerged as a world champion in multiple swimming competitions, showcasing exceptional talent and determination throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 12th

Kyu Sakamoto

Japanese singer and actor, 'Ue o Muite Arukou'
Born
December 10th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1985 39 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1941, Sakamoto gained wide popularity as a singer and actor in Japan. His single 'Ue o Muite Arukou,' released in 1961, achieved international success, topping charts in several countries. The song's English version, titled 'Sukiyaki,' became a global hit and was notably the first Japanese song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Sakamoto also pursued an acting career, starring in various films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. His contributions to music and entertainment left a lasting legacy in Japanese pop culture.

Continue Reading

Ernst Boris Chain

Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
June 19th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1979 45 years ago — 73 years old

A biochemist and academic, made significant contributions to the field of antibiotic research. Worked on the development of penicillin, contributing to its mass production during World War II. Held academic positions throughout his career, including at the University of London, and later at various institutions in Ireland. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945, sharing the honor with Alexander Fleming and Howard Florey for the discovery and development of penicillin.

Continue Reading

Charles Sapinaud de La Rairie

French general during the Revolutionary Wars
Born
December 30th, 1760 264 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1829 195 years ago — 68 years old

A general in the French Revolutionary Wars, served in various military campaigns during the tumultuous period. Gained recognition for leadership and strategic skills on the battlefield. Played a significant role in the military operations that characterized the French War for Independence. Contributed to the development of military tactics employed during this era. Oversaw important battles and held significant commands within the French Army throughout the late 18th century.

Continue Reading

Jack Delano

Photographer and composer, FSA photographer
Born
August 1st, 1914 110 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1997 27 years ago — 83 years old

A photographer and composer, Delano practiced his craft primarily during the 1930s and 1940s. He gained recognition for his work with the Farm Security Administration, where he documented the lives of rural Americans, capturing the struggles and resilience of agricultural families. Delano also composed music, contributing to cultural projects in the United States. His photographic works remain a valuable part of the historical record of American life during the Great Depression and World War II.

Continue Reading

Albert Gallatin

Ethnologist & 4th U.S. Secretary of Treasury
Born
January 29th, 1761 264 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1849 175 years ago — 88 years old

A Swiss-American ethnologist, linguist, and politician, served as the fourth Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1814 under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Played a significant role in the founding of the University of New York and the establishment of the first American ethnological society. Contributed to the development of American fiscal policy and worked on reducing the national debt during his tenure. Involved in diplomatic efforts including peace negotiations with Great Britain during the War of 1812 and advocated for Native American rights. Helped foster infrastructure improvements including roads and waterways, promoting economic growth.

Continue Reading

Meshulim Feish Lowy

Rabbi and author of Jewish texts
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

A rabbi and author, contributed significantly to Jewish literature and education. Raised in Hungary, relocated to Canada, where continued religious leadership and community building. Focused on Jewish texts and traditions, advocating education and scholarship within the community. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting Jewish knowledge.

Continue Reading