Roland Joffé
Film director of The Killing Fields
An English-French director, producer, and screenwriter, noted for works that explore complex human experiences and historical narratives. Directed the acclaimed film 'The Killing Fields' in 1984, which depicted the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia. The film received multiple Academy Award nominations and won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Joffé also directed 'The Mission' in 1986, featuring Robert De Niro and Jeremy Irons, which addressed themes of colonialism and morality. Throughout the career, Joffé's films often conveyed strong political and ethical themes, showcasing a commitment to narrative depth and historical relevance.
Directed 'The Killing Fields'
Directed 'The Mission'
Other People Born on November 17th
Pierre Gaultier de Varennes
Canadian explorer and commander
Born
November 17th, 1685 340 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1749 276 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1685, an explorer and commander explored parts of North America including the Mississippi River and Michigan. His expeditions contributed to the French colonial efforts in North America. He played a significant role in the establishment of French settlements and trade routes. His leadership in exploring the Great Lakes region opened new opportunities for European settlements in the area.
Continue ReadingArman
French-American painter and sculptor
Born
November 17th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
Born in November 1928, a significant figure in the Nouveau Réalisme movement. Emigrated to the United States in the 1960s and became influential in the development of contemporary art. Utilized found objects and mass-produced items to create assemblages and sculptures. Explored themes of consumerism, destruction, and the passage of time through distinctive artistic practices.
Continue ReadingKorbinian Brodmann
Neurologist known for brain mapping
Born
November 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1918 107 years ago — 49 years old
Contributed significantly to neuroscience through the development of a cytoarchitectonic map of the human brain. The classification, known as Brodmann areas, identified 52 distinct regions based on differences in cellular structure. Worked in various academic institutions, primarily focusing on the anatomical structure of the cerebral cortex. Published influential research that laid the groundwork for modern brain studies and neuroanatomy.
Continue ReadingShelby Foote
Historian and Civil War author
Born
November 17th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old
An American historian and author focused on the American Civil War, produced a comprehensive three-volume narrative titled 'The Civil War: A Narrative'. This work provided detailed accounts of the battles, politicians, and personal stories of the era. Served as a consultant for Ken Burns' documentary series 'The Civil War', which brought renewed attention to the period and its complexities. Wrote novels and essays, contributing to literary discussions surrounding the Civil War and American history.
Continue ReadingJeff Buckley
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Grace'
Born
November 17th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1997 28 years ago — 30 years old
This artist gained prominence with the release of the album 'Grace' in 1994, which showcased a blend of rock, folk, and pop influences. The album included the iconic cover of Leonard Cohen's 'Hallelujah'. A unique vocal style and emotive songwriting characterized the artist's work. A posthumous album, 'Sketches for My Sweetheart the Drunk', was released in 1998, further expanding the artist's legacy. The contributions to music continue to be celebrated, highlighting a significant musical influence.
Continue ReadingLev Vygotsky
Psychologist known for cultural-historical theory
Born
November 17th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1934 91 years ago — 37 years old
A psychologist and philosopher focused on cognitive development. Developed the cultural-historical theory, emphasizing the role of social interaction in learning. Introduced concepts like the Zone of Proximal Development, which describes the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance. His work laid the foundation for various educational methods and influenced developmental psychology. Contributions continue to be relevant in the fields of education and psychology.
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