Quentin Crisp
English author and illustrator of 'The Naked Civil Servant'
An author and illustrator gained recognition for the autobiographical work 'The Naked Civil Servant', which candidly depicted experiences as a gay man in mid-20th century Britain. The book's publication in 1968 drew considerable attention and was later adapted into a television film in 1975. Crisp's unique style and perspective contributed to the discourse on gender and sexuality in literature. He also published several other works, including 'Miss Crisp' and 'The Age of Consent', showcasing a distinctive voice and narrative approach. Later in life, emigrated to the United States, where continued to write and speak on various topics, influencing discussions on identity and society.
Published 'The Naked Civil Servant'
Adapted 'The Naked Civil Servant' into a TV film
Authored 'Miss Crisp' and 'The Age of Consent'
Other People Born on December 25th
Jason Thirsk
Bass player for Pennywise band
Born
December 25th, 1967 58 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1996 29 years ago — 28 years old
A bass player contributed to the punk rock band Pennywise, which formed in 1988 in Hermosa Beach, California. Thirsk joined the band shortly after its inception, becoming an integral member. The group's self-titled album released in 1991 propelled them into the punk rock scene. The band's sound blended melodic elements with aggressive punk, leading to a dedicated following. Thirsk's songwriting skills added depth to the band's music. He participated in multiple studio albums and tours until his passing in 1996. His contributions to the punk genre, especially through his work with Pennywise, are notable within the music community.
Continue ReadingJo-Jo Moore
Baseball player for the New York Giants
Born
December 25th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 93 years old
Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder and was associated primarily with the New York Giants during the 1930s and 1940s. Made his debut in 1931 and became a regular player, noted for his speed and ability to get on base. Contributed to the team's success in the National League. Retired in 1947 after a decade-long career. Accumulated statistics that included a batting average of .291 and was recognized for defensive capabilities. Later transitioned into coaching and remained involved with baseball.
Continue ReadingRobert Huff
English race car driver and champion.
Born
December 25th, 1979 46 years ago
A professional race car driver, competed in multiple racing series including touring cars. Achieved significant success in the World Touring Car Championship, driving for teams such as SEAT and Chevrolet. Secured the championship title in 2012, showcasing skill and consistency throughout the season. Participated in various other racing disciplines, demonstrating versatility and competitiveness on the track.
Continue ReadingZaib-un-Nissa Hamidullah
Journalist and author of India-Pakistan
Born
December 25th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1921, a prominent journalist and author focused on socio-political issues in India and Pakistan. Worked as a pioneer in women's rights advocacy and wrote extensively on gender equality. Contributed to various publications, bringing attention to pressing social issues faced by women and minorities in the region. Played a significant role in shaping modern discourse around women's empowerment during a transformative period in South Asian history.
Continue ReadingOscar Lewis
American anthropologist of Latin America
Born
December 25th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1970 55 years ago — 55 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of anthropology with a focus on the lives and cultures of the poor in Latin America. Developed the concept of the 'culture of poverty' based on extensive fieldwork in Mexico and Puerto Rico. Spent much of his career studying the socio-economic conditions affecting marginalized communities and published numerous works that highlighted social conditions and human behavior.
Continue ReadingArchibald Pitcairne
Scottish physician and anatomist
Born
December 25th, 1652 373 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1713 312 years ago — 60 years old
A Scottish physician, anatomist, and scholar, contributed significantly to medical education and the understanding of anatomy in the 17th century. Played a critical role in the promotion of clinical medicine and founded the first medical school in Scotland. Published numerous works that advanced medical knowledge and provided a bridge between traditional practices and modern scientific methods.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 21st
Ivan Krylov
Russian fable author and poet
Born
February 13th, 1769 256 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1844 181 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent literary figure in Russia, this author, poet, and playwright gained recognition for writing fables that often included moral lessons. His works reflect the social and political climate of the time and contributed to the literary landscape of 19th-century Russia. Notable for creating a distinct Russian fable tradition, he published a collection of fables that resonates with readers even today. His use of animals to convey human traits and dilemmas has left a lasting legacy in Russian literature.
Continue ReadingAbdus Salam
Physicist; Nobel Prize in Physics 1979
Born
January 29th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 70 years old
Significant contributions to theoretical physics, focusing on electroweak unification. Played a vital role in the development of the Standard Model of particle physics. Worked at the International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste, Italy, promoting science in developing countries. Collaborated on various research projects and mentored many physicists worldwide.
Continue ReadingFranz Joseph I of Austria
Austrian Emperor and monarch
Born
August 18th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1916 109 years ago — 86 years old
Ruled as Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1848 until death in 1916. Oversaw significant events such as the Austro-Prussian War, the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, and World War I. His reign faced various national movements within the empire, leading to challenges in maintaining control over diverse ethnic groups. Aimed to modernize the empire while balancing power struggles with neighboring nations.
Continue ReadingMel Ott
Baseball player and Hall of Famer
Born
March 2nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1958 67 years ago — 49 years old
Played professional baseball as a right fielder for the New York Giants from 1926 to 1947. Managed the Giants for part of the 1948 season. Worked as a sportscaster after retiring from playing. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1951, recognized for a prolific career and a significant number of home runs at a time when the game was dominated by pitchers.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich Schmidt
Geologist and botanist, explored flora.
Born
January 27th, 1832 194 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1908 117 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1832, a geologist and botanist contributed significantly to the understanding of plant life and geology in the Baltic region. Conducted extensive research in Estonia and Russia, focusing on the local flora and geological formations. Schmidt's work included collecting and cataloging numerous plant specimens, and he was involved in early studies of the region's geology, contributing valuable insights into the area's natural history. His efforts in academia and field research laid the groundwork for future studies in botany and geology.
Continue ReadingMaurice Vachon
Canadian professional wrestler, WWE Hall of Famer
Born
September 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
Started a wrestling career in the 1940s and became a prominent figure in North American professional wrestling. Competed in various promotions, including the World Wrestling Federation. Gained a reputation as a strong and technical wrestler, participating in numerous high-profile matches and feuds. Became a member of the WWE Hall of Fame in 2010, acknowledging contributions to the sport. Was also known for his work in Canada and the United States, helping to shape the wrestling landscape during his active years.
Continue Reading