Sarah Kirsch

German poet and author of 'The Last Garden'

Sarah Kirsch - German poet and author of 'The Last Garden'
Born

April 16th, 1935
89 years ago

Died

May 5th, 2013
11 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

A significant figure in German literature, contributed to the post-World War II literary scene. Published numerous poetry collections and prose works, exploring themes of nature, identity, and the human experience. Early works reflected on the impact of political changes in Germany. Spent time in East Germany, where her writing was influenced by the political climate. Later moved to West Germany, where she gained wider recognition. Also engaged in translation, introducing German literature to international audiences.

Published 'The Last Garden' in 1990

Awarded the Joseph Breitbach Prize in 1992

Received the Schiller Memorial Prize in 1996

Other People Born on April 16th

Bobby Vinton

Singer known for 'Blue Velvet'
Born
April 16th, 1935 89 years ago

Born in 1935, this singer gained prominence in the 1960s with his romantic ballads and lush pop style. Achievements include chart-topping hits and a successful career spanning several decades. 'Blue Velvet' remains one of the most recognized songs, showcasing his smooth vocal style. The artist also hosted his own television variety show, further establishing a connection with the audience. He contributed significantly to the music scene during his active years, captivating fans with heartfelt performances.

Continue Reading

Tabinshwehti

Burmese king and military leader
Born
April 16th, 1516 508 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1550 474 years ago — 34 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1531, established the Taungoo dynasty. Initiated numerous military campaigns to unify Burma, including successful conquests over Ava and Prome. Implemented administrative reforms that strengthened the central government and improved trade. His reign marked a significant period of expansion and consolidation in the territory that would become modern-day Myanmar.

Continue Reading

Charlie Chaplin

Silent film actor and filmmaker
Born
April 16th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1977 47 years ago — 88 years old

An influential figure in the film industry, created beloved characters and pioneered slapstick comedy. Achieved success during the silent film era with the iconic character of the Tramp, characterized by his bowler hat and cane. Founded United Artists, allowing greater creative control. Directed and starred in classic films such as 'The Kid', 'City Lights', and 'Modern Times'. Received an Honorary Academy Award in 1972 for his contributions to film.

Continue Reading

Luol Deng

Basketball player multiple All-Star selections
Born
April 16th, 1985 39 years ago

Born in Sudan, played basketball at Duke University before entering the NBA. Selected by the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 2004 NBA Draft. Achieved All-Star status in multiple seasons while with the Bulls and later played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat. Represented Great Britain internationally in major tournaments, including the Olympics.

Continue Reading

Robert Stigwood

Film and music producer and manager
Born
April 16th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 82 years old

Started a career in theater production before transitioning to music and film. Founded the Management Company and managed notable artists, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s. Produced iconic films and musicals, including 'Saturday Night Fever' and 'Grease'. Established a reputation for bringing successful Broadway shows to the screen and for his significant contributions to the disco era in music.

Continue Reading

George Bingham

Field Marshal and 3rd Earl of Lucan
Born
April 16th, 1800 224 years ago
Died
1888 137 years ago — 88 years old

Served as a British army officer and politician during the 19th century. Bingham commanded the Light Brigade during the Charge of the Light Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava in 1854, a significant event during the Crimean War. He held the position of Governor of the Royal Hospital Chelsea and was a member of the House of Lords. His military career included various campaigns, and he was notable for his role in the planning and execution of military strategies.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 5th

Francesco Bussone da Carmagnola

Italian military leader and mercenary
Died
May 5th, 1432 592 years ago — None years old

Served as a condottiero, commanding forces in various Italian city-states during the early 15th century. Led the Milanese army and participated in conflicts such as the battles against the Venetian Republic. Managed alliances and engagements in the ongoing power struggles in Italy. Captured and eventually executed in Venice, reflecting the volatile nature of military leadership in Italy during this period.

Continue Reading

Michael Shaara

Author of 'The Killer Angels'
Born
June 23rd, 1928 96 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1988 36 years ago — 59 years old

An American author and academic, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on historical fiction. Gained prominence with the novel 'The Killer Angels', which portrayed the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. The work received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1975 and is considered a seminal text in Civil War literature. His writing style captured the complexities of war and the human experience within it, influencing both readers and writers in the genre.

Continue Reading

Ely Ould Mohamed Vall

Mauritanian politician and former president
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2017 7 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the President of Mauritania from 2005 to 2007 following a coup d'état. After leading the military coup that ousted the previous president, initiated a transition to democratic governance, overseeing the first democratic elections in the country. His administration focused on addressing issues of governance and corruption. Resigned after the election of a successor to promote the democratic process.

Continue Reading

Ludwig Erhard

Politician and second Chancellor of West Germany
Born
February 4th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1977 47 years ago — 80 years old

Served as the second Chancellor of West Germany from 1963 to 1966. Played a significant role in post-World War II economic recovery through the implementation of the social market economy. Influenced German policy and is recognized for promoting free-market principles while maintaining social welfare. Initially served as the Minister of Economics and contributed to the economic miracle that transformed Germany into one of the world's leading economies.

Continue Reading

Charlotte of Bourbon

Princess consort of Orange
Born
1547 478 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1582 442 years ago — 35 years old

Married to William I of Orange, served as the Princess consort of Orange. Part of the House of Bourbon, contributed to the political landscape of the time through marriage alliances. Held significant influence during a period of religious conflict in the Low Countries, particularly relating to the Eighty Years' War. Despite the challenges faced, maintained the role of a supportive consort and helped in the management of estates.

Continue Reading

Walter Sisulu

South African politician and activist
Born
May 18th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 5th, 2003 21 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1912, a prominent figure in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement, played a crucial role in the African National Congress. Joined the ANC in 1940 and became a key strategist, organizing protests and advocating for the rights of black South Africans. Arrested in 1960, faced treason charges and later sentenced to life imprisonment during the Rivonia Trial in 1964. His imprisonment lasted until 1989, coinciding with the international push against apartheid. After release, contributed to negotiations for a democratic South Africa and served as a member of parliament post-1994.

Continue Reading