Rebecca West
English author and literary critic
A prominent English author and critic, gained recognition for both fiction and non-fiction works. Explored themes of politics, society, and feminism. Most acclaimed for the novel 'The Fountain Overflows,' published in 1956, which is noted for its characterization and narrative style. Contributed significantly to literary criticism through essays and reviews in various periodicals. Received several honors throughout the career, including the English-speaking Union's Golden Pen Award.
Authored 'The Fountain Overflows'
Wrote extensive literary criticism
Received the English-speaking Union's Golden Pen Award
Other People Born on December 21st
Thomas Sankara
Burkinabé politician and revolutionary leader
Born
December 21st, 1949 76 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1987 38 years ago — 37 years old
Served as the 5th President of Burkina Faso from 1983 until 1987. Sankara implemented sweeping reforms aimed at combating corruption, improving education, and enhancing public health. Focused on self-sufficiency, he promoted agricultural development and women's rights. His government nationalized land, mineral resources, and initiated a range of social programs, making significant strides in literacy and healthcare during his tenure. His policies and leadership style inspired other revolutionary movements across Africa.
Continue ReadingZdeněk Fibich
Czech composer, known for Poem
Born
December 21st, 1850 175 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1900 125 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent Czech composer and poet, contributions spanned opera, symphonic, and chamber music. Major works include the opera 'Šárka' and the symphonic poem 'Poem', which showcased the lyrical qualities of the Czech musical landscape. Worked alongside musical circles in Prague, influencing the transition from Romanticism to early Modernism in Czech music. His compositions often integrated dramatic narratives and folkloric elements, reflecting contemporary trends and personal expression.
Continue ReadingErnest de Munck
Belgian cellist and composer
Born
December 21st, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1915 111 years ago — 74 years old
Ernest de Munck contributed to the world of classical music as a distinguished cellist and composer. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, his works primarily focused on chamber music and orchestral compositions. De Munck's skills on the cello gained recognition, and he performed with notable ensembles. His compositions, while less frequently performed today, showcased his command of melody and harmony.
Continue ReadingThomas Bracken
Journalist, poet, and politician
Born
December 21st, 1843 182 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1898 127 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Ireland and later settling in New Zealand, contributed significantly to literature and politics. Bracken's poetry often reflected the themes of nationalism and the landscape of New Zealand. He served as a member of the New Zealand Parliament and was a prominent advocate for the cultural identity of the nation. His most celebrated work includes the poem 'God Defend New Zealand', which was later adopted as one of the national anthems. His efforts in journalism helped shape public discourse in 19th-century New Zealand.
Continue ReadingDonald Regan
Colonel and 11th White House Chief of Staff
Born
December 21st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 11th White House Chief of Staff from 1985 to 1987 under President Ronald Reagan. Before assuming this role, held various positions in the U.S. government, including Secretary of the Treasury from 1981 to 1985. Played a significant role in economic policy and management during a pivotal period for the Reagan administration. His tenure included efforts related to tax reform and economic recovery. Additionally, served as a colonel in the United States Marine Corps.
Continue ReadingJan Łukasiewicz
Polish mathematician and philosopher
Born
December 21st, 1878 147 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1956 69 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and philosophy, particularly in propositional calculus. Developed the Polish notation, a mathematical notation in which operators precede their operands. Wrote extensively on the foundations of logic, the history of logic, and related philosophical topics. Held academic positions in various institutions, including University of Warsaw.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 15th
Collins Chabane
South African politician and minister
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 55 years old
A prominent figure in South African politics, served as the Minister of Performance, Monitoring, and Evaluation. Contributed to the African National Congress as a member and held various leadership roles throughout a political career that spanned several years. Focused on promoting efficiency and accountability within government departments. Actively participated in the fight against apartheid and worked towards the establishment of a democratic South Africa.
Continue ReadingMervyn Davies
Welsh rugby player and captain
Born
November 21st, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 59 years old
Played as a lock for the Welsh national rugby team and the British Lions. Captained Wales to a Grand Slam victory in the 1971 Five Nations Championship. Played club rugby for Swansea RFC and won multiple domestic titles. Retired from international rugby in 1976. Later pursued a career in business and served as a director in various companies.
Continue ReadingRon Silver
Actor and director in 'Chicago Fire'
Born
July 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old
An accomplished actor and director with a career spanning several decades. Gained significant recognition for performances in television and film, including roles in 'The West Wing' and 'Chicago Fire.' Silver had a notable presence on stage, winning a Tony Award for his performance in 'Brighton Beach Memoirs.' In addition to acting, he directed and produced various projects, showcasing his talent behind the scenes. He also had a role in shaping political discourse through his public appearances and discussions.
Continue ReadingScott Asheton
American drummer for The Stooges
Born
August 16th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 64 years old
A drummer and founding member of the influential rock band The Stooges, which formed in 1967. The band played a significant role in the development of punk rock music. Asheton contributed to the band's self-titled debut album and its follow-up, 'Fun House', both of which are considered seminal works in the genre. The Stooges disbanded in 1974 but reunited several times over the following decades, continuing to perform and record music. Asheton's distinctive drumming style became a defining characteristic of the band's sound.
Continue ReadingHenry Bessemer
Engineer who developed the Bessemer process
Born
January 19th, 1813 213 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1898 127 years ago — 85 years old
An English engineer and businessman developed the Bessemer process, a method for producing steel from pig iron that revolutionized steelmaking. This process allowed for the mass production of steel, making it stronger and cheaper, which contributed significantly to the development of railways and construction during the Industrial Revolution. Bessemer also held various patents related to steel manufacturing and was involved in the establishment of the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad. His innovations facilitated advancements in industrial technology, shaping modern engineering practices and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingCurtis Gans
Political Scientist and Author
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed to the field of political science with a focus on elections and voter behavior. Authored influential works that analyzed civic engagement and public opinion. Conducted extensive research on the relationship between democracy and voter turnout. Served as a director at the Committee for the Study of the American Electorate.
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