Raymond Queneau
French poet and author of 'Exercises in Style'
Born in 1903, a French poet and author significantly contributed to literature, particularly through experimentation with language and form. The most acclaimed work is 'Exercises in Style', which showcases 99 variations of a simple narrative. Associated with the literary group Oulipo, involved in using mathematical structures to create literature. Also wrote novels, poems, and essays, exploring themes of everyday life and relationships. Queneau's innovative style influenced various writers and he held positions in literary and academic circles throughout his career.
Authored 'Exercises in Style'
Participated in the Oulipo group
Other People Born on February 21st
Joe Alwyn
English actor in 'The Favourite' and 'Mary Queen of Scots'
Born
February 21st, 1991 34 years ago
An English actor emerged in the film industry in 2016. Starred in 'Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk', which marked a breakthrough role. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Favourite' and 'Mary Queen of Scots', showcasing versatility across various genres. Collaborated with notable filmmakers and established a reputation as a talented actor in both period and contemporary pieces. Also appeared in music videos and worked with prominent artists.
Continue ReadingHayley Orrantia
Actress and singer-songwriter, 'The Goldbergs'
Born
February 21st, 1994 31 years ago
An actress and singer-songwriter, widely recognized for roles in television and music. Gained prominence through the role of Erica Goldberg on the ABC sitcom 'The Goldbergs', which started airing in 2013. Also pursued a career in music, releasing singles that showcase a blend of pop and country genres. Initiated a musical career alongside acting, contributing to her recognition as a multi-talented performer.
Continue ReadingJeanne Calment
French super-centenarian, oldest verified person
Born
February 21st, 1875 150 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1997 28 years ago — 122 years old
Born in 1875, lived for 122 years, maintaining extensive records throughout her life. Worked as a shopkeeper and painter. Gained international recognition for longevity in the late 20th century. Resided in Arles, France, and became a subject of various studies on aging. Her life spanned significant historical events, including both World Wars and advances in technology and culture.
Continue ReadingScott Kelly
American astronaut, ISS commander
Born
February 21st, 1964 61 years ago
Served as a NASA astronaut with notable missions aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Completed a record-setting 340 consecutive days in space during the One-Year Mission, which provided valuable research on the effects of long-duration spaceflight on the human body. Worked on multiple space shuttle missions and contributed to the assembly and maintenance of the ISS. Is a retired U.S. Navy captain and has flown on four spaceflights, accumulating over 520 total days in space throughout an illustrious career.
Continue ReadingTyne Daly
American actress from 'Cagney & Lacey'
Born
February 21st, 1946 79 years ago
An accomplished actress and singer, prominent in television and theater, with a career spanning several decades. Gained widespread recognition for the role of Christine Cagney in the television series 'Cagney & Lacey', which aired from 1981 to 1988. Received numerous accolades for performances in both film and stage, winning multiple Emmy Awards and a Tony Award. Additionally, starred in several notable productions, including 'The Last Night of Ballyhoo' and 'Gypsy'.
Continue ReadingBrad Fast
Canadian ice hockey player
Born
February 21st, 1980 45 years ago
Born in 1980, an ice hockey player specialized in defense. Played for the University of Alberta Golden Bears and contributed to their success in collegiate hockey. Later participated in various professional leagues, including the ECHL and CHL, showcasing skills in defensive play. Recognized for contributions to team success and development of younger players.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 25th
Bobby Riggs
American tennis player and champion
Born
February 25th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1995 30 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent tennis player in the mid-20th century, active mainly during the 1930s and 1940s. Achieved significant success in both singles and doubles competitions. Gained fame for the historical match against Billie Jean King in 1973, dubbed the 'Battle of the Sexes'. Also won multiple Grand Slam titles, contributing to the popularity of tennis in the United States.
Continue ReadingRichard Pousette-Dart
American abstract painter and educator
Born
June 8th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1992 33 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1916, this artist became a prominent figure in the abstract expressionist movement. With a focus on color and form, created significant works that contributed to modern art. Worked as an educator, influencing future generations of artists. Exhibited at major galleries and museums, establishing a reputation in the art world. His artistic journey included explorations of various media and techniques, leading to a distinctive style characterized by vibrant colors and spontaneous brushwork.
Continue ReadingTerence MacSwiney
Irish Republican politician and hunger striker
Born
March 28th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1920 105 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent Irish republican politician, served as Lord Mayor of Cork. Engaged in political activism against British rule in Ireland and became an important figure during the struggle for Irish independence. Imprisoned in 1920, led a hunger strike to protest against British policies. His death from starvation garnered international attention and highlighted the plight of Irish republicans. His ideals and the manner of his death influenced the movement towards Irish self-governance.
Continue ReadingGeorge II of Great Britain
British king during the War of Austrian Succession
Born
November 9th, 1683 342 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1760 265 years ago — 76 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1727, ruled until 1760. His reign included involvement in the War of Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. During his rule, he moved the royal court to London, enhancing the city's prominence. Noted for conflicts with political factions, including the Whigs and Tories. Under his reign, British colonial expansion continued in North America, which led to significant territorial gains.
Continue ReadingLisa Jardine
Historian and author of several works
Born
April 12th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
October 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
An English historian, author, and academic focused on the history of science and its intersection with culture. Contributed significantly to discussions on the role of women in science. Served as a professor of Renaissance Studies at University College London and directed the Human Renaissance project. Published various works, including 'Ingenious Pursuits: Building the Scientific Revolution' and 'Going Dutch: How England Plundered Holland's Glory'. Held the position of chair for the Royal Commission on Historical Manuscripts.
Continue ReadingPhilippe Pinel
French physician and psychiatrist
Born
April 20th, 1745 280 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1826 199 years ago — 81 years old
A pioneer in the field of psychiatry, this physician established humane treatment methods for individuals with mental disorders. Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, initiated reforms in the management of mental illness, promoting the idea that patients should be treated with dignity. Played a critical role in the development of clinical psychiatry and emphasized the need for moral treatment. His approaches laid the groundwork for future psychiatric practices and highlighted the importance of understanding mental health in a compassionate context.
Continue Reading