Rae Armantrout
Poet and author of 'Versed'
An American poet and academic, played a significant role in the movement of Language poetry. Published several acclaimed collections, with 'Versed' winning the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 2010. Work often explores themes of perception, language, and the passage of time. Has taught at various institutions, including the University of California, San Diego, where significant contributions to poetry communities were made.
Published 'Versed', Pulitzer Prize winner
Contributed to Language poetry movement
Authored several influential poetry collections
Other People Born on April 13th
Thomas Jefferson
American politician, 3rd President
Born
April 13th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1826 199 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809. Drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776, articulating the principles of individual liberty and government by consent. Played a pivotal role in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which expanded U.S. territory significantly. Oversaw the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the western territories. Jefferson was a member of the Continental Congress and the first Secretary of State.
Continue ReadingLiam Cosgrave
Irish politician, 6th Taoiseach of Ireland
Born
April 13th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 97 years old
Served as Taoiseach from 1973 to 1977, representing the National Party. Instrumental in navigating Ireland through economic challenges during his term. Oversaw significant political developments and policy implementations in the country. Worked as a lawyer prior to entering politics, contributing to various legal and political discussions.
Continue ReadingMuwenda Mutebi II
King of Buganda Kingdom
Born
April 13th, 1955 70 years ago
Born in 1955, the current king of Buganda Kingdom has held the throne since 1993, after a long period of political turmoil in Uganda. Having studied in both Uganda and the United States, he returned to promote the cultural and social interests of the Baganda people. The king emphasizes education, cultural revival, and charitable initiatives throughout the kingdom. Under his leadership, Buganda has focused on reforming local governance and heritage preservation.
Continue ReadingCatherine de' Medici
Italian-French Queen, patron of the arts
Born
April 13th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
1589 436 years ago — 70 years old
Born into the powerful Medici family in Italy, played a crucial role as the queen consort of Henry II of France. Following her husband's death, served as regent for her sons, advocating for the Catholic cause amid the French Wars of Religion. Patronized the arts and was instrumental in the cultural transformation of France during the Renaissance. Established the legacy of French cuisine and introduced Italian culinary practices to the French court. Her political acumen and connections helped solidify the Medici influence in France.
Continue ReadingAlexander Mitchell
Engineer and inventor of screw-pile lighthouse
Born
April 13th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
1868 157 years ago — 88 years old
An Irish engineer specialized in marine engineering and innovation in lighthouse design. Developed the screw-pile foundation method for constructing lighthouses in unstable marine environments. Designed the first screw-pile lighthouse, the Maplin Sands Lighthouse, successfully using this technique. Made significant contributions to lighthouse technology, enabling safer navigation along hazardous coastlines. Impacted coastal engineering practices through innovative designs.
Continue ReadingClaude Cheysson
French politician and Foreign Minister
Born
April 13th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Served as a French lieutenant and later entered politics, holding the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs. Played a significant role in shaping French foreign policy during the 1980s. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts and represented France in key international discussions.
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