Rose Ausländer
Ukrainian-German poet and author
Born in 1901 in Ukraine, this poet faced significant challenges during her life, including the impact of war and displacement. Relocating to Germany in the 1920s, she became a prominent figure in the literary scene. Her poetry often dealt with themes of exile, identity, and the human condition. Her works were influenced by her experiences during World War II and the Holocaust. After the war, she returned to Germany, where she continued to write and publish, gaining recognition in German literature until her death in 1988.
Published the poetry collection 'From the Land of Conscience'
Received the Fontane Prize in 1979
Awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany
Other People Born on May 11th
Johann Friedrich Blumenbach
Physician and anthropologist
Born
May 11th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1840 185 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent German physician, physiologist, and anthropologist. Blumenbach significantly contributed to the fields of anthropology and physiology in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He established a classification system that categorized human races based on skull shape, which played a foundational role in biological anthropology. A key figure in the development of comparative anatomy, he studied various physical characteristics of human populations. His work on the variation of human skulls led to the understanding of racial diversity and human classification. Blumenbach also authored several influential texts that addressed topics in medicine and biology, alongside his contributions to the understanding of human variation and species.
Continue ReadingJeremy Paxman
Journalist and author, host of Newsnight
Born
May 11th, 1950 75 years ago
A British journalist and author, recognized for work on the BBC current affairs program Newsnight, where the tenure spanned two decades. Contributed to the portrayal of political events and historical documentaries through literature and broadcasting. Engaged viewers with incisive interviewing techniques and deep political analysis. Authored several books, including historical works and explorations of British culture.
Continue ReadingEdward J. King
American politician, Governor of Massachusetts
Born
May 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 66th Governor of Massachusetts from 1979 to 1981. King was the first Democratic governor of Massachusetts in 20 years. His administration focused on issues such as education reform, fiscal policy, and urban development. King faced challenges dealing with a struggling economy and rising unemployment during his tenure. After leaving office, he continued to be active in politics and public service.
Continue ReadingBobi
Portuguese dog with longest lifespan
Born
May 11th, 1992 33 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2023 2 years ago — 31 years old
Bobi was a domestic dog recognized for achieving the longest verified lifespan of any dog. Born in 1992 in Portugal, Bobi lived for over 31 years, surpassing the previous record for oldest dog. Bobi's life spanned multiple decades, witnessing significant changes in the world and becoming a beloved figure in his community and beyond.
Continue ReadingRobert E. Gross
Businessman and aviation pioneer
Born
May 11th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1961 64 years ago — 64 years old
Entered the aviation industry as a businessman and played a significant role in the development of several important companies. Served as the president of North American Aviation, which became a prominent aerospace manufacturer. Instrumental in the production of military and commercial aircraft during World War II and the post-war era. Contributed to advancements in aerospace technology and helped shape the landscape of modern aviation.
Continue ReadingLouis Farrakhan
Religious leader and Nation of Islam figure
Born
May 11th, 1933 92 years ago
A religious leader became the prominent figure of the Nation of Islam, advocating for Black empowerment and religious education. Founded the original Million Man March in 1995, which aimed to promote unity and self-improvement among African American men. Involved in various social and political issues, addressing topics such as social justice, racism, and economic development within the African American community. Sustained leadership over multiple decades, influencing the direction of the Nation of Islam and engaging in controversial discussions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 3rd
William Joyce
Pro-Axis propaganda broadcaster
Born
April 24th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1946 79 years ago — 39 years old
A broadcaster with a focus on pro-Axis propaganda during World War II, migrated to Germany and began his career with the Nazi regime. Gained attention through radio broadcasts directed at British audiences, creating a distinct identity as 'Lord Haw-Haw'. Captured after the war, faced a trial for treason in the UK.
Continue ReadingCarl David Tolmé Runge
German physicist and mathematician
Born
August 30th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1927 98 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of physics and mathematics. Developed the Runge-Kutta methods for solving ordinary differential equations. Worked on the theory of interpolation and approximation of functions. Collaborated with many prominent scientists during the early 20th century and published numerous academic papers and studies that were influential in both mathematics and physics.
Continue ReadingClaude Bourgelat
Surgeon and lawyer, veterinary pioneer
Born
March 27th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1779 246 years ago — 66 years old
A surgeon and lawyer in France, played a significant role in the establishment of veterinary medicine as a recognized profession. Founded the first veterinary school in Lyon in 1761, promoting the study and practice of animal health. Contributed to the understanding of animal diseases and surgery. His efforts provided a foundation for the veterinary profession in Europe and emphasized the importance of animal care.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Voigt
German criminal and impersonator
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1922 103 years ago — 73 years old
Voigt gained notoriety in 1906 when he disguised himself as a Prussian military officer and seized control of the town of Köpenick. This event, known as the Köpenick affair, highlighted issues of authority and social class in Germany. Following the incident, he was arrested and sentenced to a prison term but became a symbol of resistance against bureaucratic oppression. After serving part of his sentence, he continued to live a quiet life away from the public eye until his death in 1922.
Continue ReadingJaroslav Hašek
Czech author of The Good Soldier Švejk
Born
April 30th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1923 102 years ago — 39 years old
A Czech soldier and author, contributed significantly to literature through satirical works. Most recognized for the novel 'The Good Soldier Švejk', which highlights the absurdities of war. Often classified as an early example of anti-war literature, the narrative combines humor and critique of the military. Active in the early 20th century, also participated in the World War I effort as a soldier.
Continue ReadingJoseph Joffre
French general during World War I
Born
1852 173 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1931 94 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the French commander during the early stages of World War I. Achieved notable success in the First Battle of the Marne, which halted the German advance into France. Promoted to Marshal of France in recognition of military leadership. Oversaw significant operations on the Western Front and helped plan military strategy for the Allied forces. Retired from military service after the war, contributing to military reform and strategy discussions.
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