Ruth Asawa
American sculptor and wire art creator
Born in 1926, this American artist gained recognition for intricate wire sculptures that combine organic forms with mathematical precision. After being influenced by her time in Japan, she developed a unique method of weaving wire, creating hanging sculptures that resemble flowers and other forms found in nature. Her works were featured in numerous exhibitions and are part of major collections, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Besides her artistic contributions, she was an advocate for arts education and played a significant role in promoting art in schools.
Created iconic wire sculptures
Promoted arts education
Other People Born on January 24th
John Belushi
American actor and comedian, SNL star
Born
January 24th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1982 43 years ago — 33 years old
A prominent actor and comedian, recognized for groundbreaking work on the sketch comedy show 'Saturday Night Live'. Gained acclaim as a member of the original cast, contributing to the show's rise in popularity during the 1970s. Starred in the cult classic film 'Animal House', which became a defining comedy of its era and is credited with popularizing the college comedy genre. Collaborated with various comedians and writers throughout a brief yet impactful career in comedy and film, showcasing unique talents in both improvisation and performance.
Continue ReadingRenate Garisch-Culmberger
German shot putter and Olympic athlete
Born
January 24th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 84 years old
Competed in shot put events in international athletics. Achieved a notable career highlight by earning a gold medal at the 1962 European Athletics Championships. Represented Germany in the 1960 and 1964 Olympic Games in the shot put category. Collected various national titles throughout the career in field athletics.
Continue ReadingGiorgio Chinaglia
Italian footballer and Lazio legend
Born
January 24th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 65 years old
Played as a forward, achieving notable success in professional football. Emerged as a key player for Lazio, contributing significantly to the team's strong performances during the 1970s and 1980s. Represented the Italian national team in international competitions. Played in the North American Soccer League for the New York Cosmos alongside other stars. Transitioned into a sports commentator after retirement.
Continue ReadingHermann-Bernhard Ramcke
German general of paratroop forces
Born
January 24th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 79 years old
A general in the German Army during World War II, significant contributions included commanding paratrooper units. Led troops in the Battle of Stalingrad and directed operations in Tunisia. Involved in the defense of Berlin towards the end of the war, displaying tactical expertise in airborne operations.
Continue ReadingKamran Baghirov
Azerbaijan Communist Party Secretary
Born
January 24th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the First Secretary of the Azerbaijan Communist Party from 1969 to 1987. Oversaw significant political and economic developments within the Azerbaijani Soviet Socialist Republic during the late 20th century. Played a key role in the implementation of various economic reforms and addressed social issues within the party's governance. His leadership coincided with turbulent times in the Soviet Union, especially during the periods leading up to its dissolution.
Continue ReadingDoris Haddock
Political activist and voting rights advocate
Born
January 24th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 100 years old
Born in 1910, this individual became a prominent voice in American politics, advocating for voting rights and campaign finance reform. In 1995, at the age of 85, campaigned for the U.S. Senate in New Hampshire, gaining national attention for running a grassroots campaign. The individual was known for walking across the state to promote the message of voting rights and participated in various political movements throughout the life. Additionally, this person's activism focused on issues such as women's rights and environmental concerns, fostering public awareness through numerous speeches and public appearances.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 5th
Erwin Axer
Polish director and screenwriter
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in Polish theater, contributed significantly as a director and screenwriter. His career spanned several decades, during which he shaped contemporary Polish drama. Worked extensively in various theaters and also embraced the role of a professor, sharing knowledge with future generations of artists. Developed a distinctive style that combined modernism with traditional elements. His works have been celebrated for their depth and engagement with social themes.
Continue ReadingJudith Durham
Folk-pop singer-songwriter from Australia
Born
July 3rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2022 3 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent Australian folk-pop singer-songwriter, achieved fame as the lead singer of The Seekers. The group gained international recognition in the 1960s with hits such as 'I'll Never Find Another You' and 'Georgy Girl.' Their harmonious blend of folk and pop music earned them a significant place in the music history. After parting ways with The Seekers, pursued a successful solo career, releasing multiple albums and performing widely. Recognized for contributions to music and culture, Durham was awarded various honors throughout her life.
Continue ReadingWillie Dunn
Canadian singer-songwriter and producer
Born
August 14th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old
Active in the folk music scene, contributed to the Canadian music landscape with a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Released influential albums, showcasing themes of Indigenous rights and environmentalism. Notable for the song 'I Pity the Country' which critiques the degradation of natural environments. Participated in various festivals and initiatives promoting cultural awareness and Indigenous issues.
Continue ReadingArthur Walter James
Journalist and politician in England
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 103 years old
Started a career in journalism, contributing significantly to various publications. Engaged in politics, representing a constituency in the House of Commons. Advocated for numerous issues during tenure and served on several committees. Continued to provide insights and commentary in the media until retirement.
Continue ReadingAndrzej Lepper
Polish politician, Deputy Prime Minister
Born
June 13th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2011 14 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in Polish politics, served as Deputy Prime Minister from 2005 to 2007. Founded the Self-Defense of the Republic of Poland party, which gained significant political influence in the early 2000s. Advocated for rural and agricultural interests, addressing issues faced by farmers and the agricultural sector. Contributed to national dialogue on economic reforms and policies affecting rural communities.
Continue ReadingRoland Charles Wagner
French author and translator
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 52 years old
An author and translator contributed significantly to the French literary scene. Engaged in science fiction and fantasy genres, produced several novels, short stories, and translations that enriched the French literary landscape. A prominent figure in the 1980s and 1990s, collaborated with various literary magazines and participated in literary festivals, influencing the evolution of these genres in France. The literary work showcased a deep understanding of speculative fiction, with themes often exploring societal issues through imaginative narratives.
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