Salvador Dalí
Surrealist painter known for persistence of memory
A prominent figure in the Surrealist movement, a Spanish painter and sculptor contributed innovative techniques and styles to modern art. Best recognized for the painting 'The Persistence of Memory,' which features melting clocks, the artist explored themes of dreams, the subconscious, and the avant-garde. Dalí also created numerous sculptures, films, and collaborative works, pushing boundaries in art and popular culture. His distinct personal style included flamboyant mustaches and elaborate public appearances, which garnered significant attention. Dalí's contributions extended beyond canvas; he worked in photography, fashion, and set design, demonstrating versatility in artistic expression. Numerous exhibitions celebrated his work, establishing him as an influential figure in 20th-century art.
Created the iconic painting 'The Persistence of Memory'
Produced various sculptures and surrealist artworks
Engaged in set design for films such as 'Spellbound'
Other People Born on May 11th
Catherine Bauer Wurster
Architect and public housing advocate
Born
May 11th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1964 61 years ago — 59 years old
Significant contributions to architecture included the design and advocacy for public housing in the United States. Played an influential role in shaping policies around urban development and affordable housing. Served as a board member of the American Institute of Architects and contributed to the Federal Housing Administration's guidelines. Participated in the formulation of the United States Housing Act of 1949, which aimed to provide decent housing for all Americans.
Continue ReadingLana Condor
American actress in 'To All the Boys' series
Born
May 11th, 1997 28 years ago
An actress gained recognition through the lead role in the 'To All the Boys' film series, based on the novels by Jenny Han. The first film premiered on Netflix in 2018 and achieved significant popularity, leading to two sequels. Condor also appeared in projects such as 'Alita: Battle Angel' and 'Moonshot.' In addition to acting, involvement in social issues has been noted, particularly regarding representation in media and advocacy for mental health awareness.
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 ReadingJohann Friedrich Blumenbach
Physician and anthropologist
Born
May 11th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1840 186 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 ReadingEdsger W. Dijkstra
Computer Scientist; developed Dijkstra's algorithm
Born
May 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2002 23 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in computer science, contributed significantly to algorithms and programming methodologies. Developed Dijkstra's algorithm for shortest paths in graphs, which is essential in networking and routing. Advocated for structured programming through various writings. Worked at several academic institutions, including the University of Texas at Austin and Eindhoven University of Technology. Received the Turing Award in 1972 for contributions to programming languages and algorithms.
Continue ReadingRose Ausländer
Ukrainian-German poet and author
Born
May 11th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1988 38 years ago — 86 years old
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.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 23rd
Freddie Bartholomew
American actor in classic films
Born
March 28th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1992 34 years ago — 67 years old
Child actor performed in several prominent films during the 1930s. Gained recognition for performances in 'Captains Courageous' and 'Little Lord Fauntleroy'. Transitioned to adult roles, but later withdrew from film industry. Acted in both movies and theater, showcasing talent at a young age. Maintained a low profile after retirement, yet held a lasting legacy in early Hollywood cinema.
Continue ReadingPaul Robeson
Actor, singer, and civil rights activist
Born
April 9th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1976 50 years ago — 77 years old
An influential American actor, singer, and civil rights activist, earned acclaim for performances on stage and screen. Gained prominence for roles in productions such as 'Othello' on Broadway and the film 'Show Boat.' A talented vocalist, recorded numerous songs including 'Ol' Man River.' Advocated for social justice, civil rights, and anti-colonialism throughout his life, using his platform to address racial inequality and promote peace. Faced political persecution during the McCarthy era due to outspoken views on civil rights and U.S. foreign policy.
Continue ReadingGiambattista Vico
Italian historian and philosopher
Born
June 23rd, 1668 357 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1744 282 years ago — 75 years old
An Italian historian and philosopher, contributions focused on the philosophy of history and the nature of knowledge. Developed the concept of the 'course of nations' which described the cyclical patterns of history. Authored 'The New Science', a foundational text in the philosophy of history that proposed a theory of historical development based on human experience and cultural evolution. Introduced ideas about social and historical change that influenced later thinkers in various fields.
Continue ReadingMatthew Stewart
Scottish mathematician and academic
Born
1717 309 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1785 241 years ago — 68 years old
This mathematician specialized in mathematics and philosophy, contributing significantly to both fields. Stewart served as a professor of mathematics at the University of Edinburgh. His notable works include a comprehensive study on the applications of mathematics in various disciplines. He also authored 'The Elements of the Philosophy of the Human Mind', where he discussed the intersection of mathematics and human thought. His studies helped lay groundwork for future developments in both mathematics and analytic philosophy.
Continue ReadingToots Shor
Restaurateur, founded Toots Shor's Restaurant
Born
May 6th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1977 49 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent restaurateur established a renowned restaurant in New York City, which became a social hub for celebrities and athletes. The eatery was celebrated for its lively atmosphere and impeccable service. Over the years, the restaurant attracted a diverse clientele that included many famous figures from the sports and entertainment industries. Its popularity contributed to the cultural fabric of mid-20th century New York dining, melding fine food with a vibrant social scene. The restaurant operated for several decades and became a gathering place for influential personalities.
Continue ReadingClaude Chappe
French engineer and semaphore inventor
Born
1763 263 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1805 221 years ago — 42 years old
An engineer developed the optical telegraph system in France during the late 18th century, which utilized a series of towers with movable arms to convey messages over long distances. This innovation laid the groundwork for future telecommunications technology. The first operational line was established between Paris and Lille in 1794, significantly improving communication speed for the military and government.
Continue Reading