Richard Ellmann
Literary critic and biographer of Joyce
An American author and critic, specialized in modernist literature, particularly the works of James Joyce. Authored a celebrated biography of Joyce, which provided in-depth analysis and context to the author's life and writings. Also penned influential works on other literary figures, including W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett. Served as a professor at various universities and contributed significantly to literary criticism through essays and reviews, shaping the understanding of 20th-century literature.
Authored a major biography of James Joyce
Wrote critical studies on W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett
Other People Born on March 15th
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Born
March 15th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2020 6 years ago — 87 years old
Graduated from Columbia Law School and began a legal career focused on gender equality. Co-founded the Women’s Rights Project at the ACLU, arguing several groundbreaking cases that advanced women’s rights. Appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993, serving as a strong advocate for civil liberties and gender equality. Continued to influence legal discussions until her passing in 2020.
Continue ReadingGeorge Bähr
Architect, designer of Dresden Frauenkirche
Born
March 15th, 1666 360 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1738 288 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent architect focused on sacred buildings in Germany, contributed significantly to Baroque architecture. Designed the Dresden Frauenkirche, a remarkable example of Protestant church architecture. The church, completed in 1743 after his death, features a stunning dome and intricate details, exemplifying the height of architectural achievement in the period. Bähr's work has influenced the design of numerous other churches and structures in Europe.
Continue ReadingValentin Rasputin
Russian environmentalist and author
Born
March 15th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 78 years old
An environmentalist and author focused on the preservation of Russian nature and culture. Wrote extensively on the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Gained recognition through works that emphasized ecological themes and rural life in Siberia. Also served as a public figure concerned with environmental issues in Russia, promoting awareness and advocacy for ecological preservation.
Continue ReadingLawrence Tierney
American actor in film and television
Born
March 15th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 26th, 2002 24 years ago — 82 years old
An American actor gained recognition for portrayals of tough characters in film and television. Made his film debut in 1943 with 'The Devil Thumbs a Ride.' Achieved prominence in the 1940s and 1950s with performances in films like 'Born to Kill' and 'Reservoir Dogs.' Featured in television series including 'The Honeymooners' and 'Two and a Half Men.' His distinctive persona contributed to a lasting legacy in the film noir genre, influencing portrayals of antiheroes in subsequent cinema.
Continue ReadingShunzhi Emperor of China
Chinese Emperor during Qing Dynasty
Born
March 15th, 1638 388 years ago
Died
1661 365 years ago — 23 years old
Ascended the throne at the age of six, becoming the first emperor of the Qing Dynasty to rule over China. His reign lasted from 1643 to 1661, during which he oversaw the consolidation of Qing power following their conquest of the Ming Dynasty. Promoted Manchu culture and implemented policies to stabilize the economy and administration of the newly acquired territories. Moved the capital from Shenyang to Beijing, where significant construction projects were initiated, including temples and palaces. Facilitated cultural exchange between Manchu and Han Chinese traditions.
Continue ReadingGerda Wegener
Danish artist known for painting
Born
March 15th, 1886 140 years ago
Died
1940 86 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1886, an artist gained recognition for her portrait work and contributions to the visual art community in the early 20th century. The artist collaborated with her husband, Einar Wegener, who transitioned to become Lili Elbe, one of the first known transgender women to undergo gender confirmation surgery. This personal experience inspired several works that highlighted themes of gender identity and fluidity. The artist's paintings often featured elegant figures and a distinct Art Deco style, contributing to the diversity of early modernist art. The body of work remains influential in discussions surrounding identity and representation in art.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 13th
Eliphalet Dyer
Colonel and American politician
Born
September 14th, 1721 305 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1807 219 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a colonel during the American Revolution and held various political positions in colonial Connecticut. Practiced law and was a prominent figure in the early governance of the state. Participated in the establishment of local government structures and contributed to legislative processes.
Continue ReadingDerek Boogaard
Ice hockey player, enforcer for the Rangers
Born
June 23rd, 1982 44 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2011 15 years ago — 28 years old
A professional ice hockey player, recognized for a role as an enforcer. Played for the Minnesota Wild and the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for physical presence and fighting ability on the ice, contributing to team dynamics. Played junior hockey in the Western Hockey League (WHL) and was selected 202nd overall in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. His career faced challenges including injuries and personal struggles.
Continue ReadingF. E. McWilliam
Irish sculptor and educator
Born
April 30th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1992 34 years ago — 83 years old
An Irish sculptor and educator, this individual contributed significantly to the field of sculpture throughout the 20th century. Active in both London and Ireland, the sculptor's work reflected modernist influences, characterized by a unique approach to form and space. Educated at the Belfast School of Art, the sculptor also had a notable teaching career that involved influencing future generations of artists. Some works integrated figurative elements with abstract styles, showcasing an innovative interpretation of traditional sculptural techniques. The artwork remains celebrated for its aesthetic qualities and conceptual depth.
Continue ReadingSholem Aleichem
Ukrainian-American author and playwright
Born
March 2nd, 1859 167 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1916 110 years ago — 57 years old
Born in what is now Ukraine, a prominent author and playwright wrote in Yiddish. His works often depicted the lives of Jewish families in Eastern Europe, intertwining humor and social commentary. The character Tevye the Dairyman, featured in stories such as 'Tevye and His Daughters', gained widespread acclaim and inspired the musical 'Fiddler on the Roof'. In the early 20th century, the contributions to Yiddish literature and theater became significant, earning recognition and establishing a legacy that continues to influence Jewish culture.
Continue ReadingUnita Blackwell
Civil rights activist and politician
Born
March 18th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 7 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1933, this individual was a prominent civil rights activist and the first African American woman elected mayor in Mississippi. Active during the civil rights movement, significant contributions included efforts to improve the social and economic conditions of African Americans in the Delta region. Served as the mayor of Mayersville from 2000 to 2004 and was a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives. Participated in numerous protests and marches advocating for voting rights and educational access, working alongside other civil rights leaders.
Continue ReadingDoris Day
Singer and actress in musicals and films
Born
April 3rd, 1922 104 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2019 7 years ago — 97 years old
An American singer and actress, emerged in the late 1940s and became a leading figure in the entertainment industry. Achieved widespread fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in iconic films such as 'Pillow Talk', 'Calamity Jane', and 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. Transitioned seamlessly between music and acting, recording hit songs like 'Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)'. Established an animal welfare foundation later in life, advocating for animal rights and protection.
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