Seamus Heaney
Irish Poet and Nobel Prize Laureate
Born in Northern Ireland, a prominent poet and playwright, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. The work often explored themes of nature, history, and personal memory. Gained considerable acclaim for the collection 'Death of a Naturalist', which received the Geoffrey Faber Memorial Prize. Won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995 for works that unite lyrical beauty with deep human experiences. Also served as a professor at Harvard University, influencing a new generation of writers and poets.
Published 'Death of a Naturalist' in 1966
Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995
Other People Born on April 13th
Charles Christie
Businessman, co-founder of Christie Film Company
Born
April 13th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1955 70 years ago — 75 years old
Co-founded Christie Film Company, which became a significant player in the early film industry. The company produced and distributed motion pictures, contributing to the growth of cinema. The organization standardized the production processes of films and introduced various technological innovations in the film industry. Enabled the transition of movie making from literal representation to narrative storytelling. Involved in the production of many notable early films that showcased the potential of cinema as an art form.
Continue ReadingFrank Winfield Woolworth
Businessman who founded Woolworth's
Born
April 13th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent American businessman founded the F. W. Woolworth Company, pioneering the concept of the five-and-dime store. Established the first self-service retail store model that influenced modern retail shopping. The first store opened in Utica, New York in 1879, leading to the rapid expansion of numerous locations across the United States and internationally. His business approach emphasized affordability and accessibility, creating a new shopping experience for consumers. Contributions to retail set the stage for future discount retailers.
Continue ReadingMike Beuttler
Racing driver, Formula One competitor
Born
April 13th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1988 36 years ago — 48 years old
Competed in Formula One during the early 1970s, participating in 24 Grands Prix. Achieved a best finish of 6th place at the 1971 French Grand Prix driving for the BRM team. Competed for various teams including the March and the private BRM team. Beyond Formula One, also had a career in sports car racing and participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Continue ReadingAlfred Mosher Butts
Game designer, inventor of Scrabble
Born
April 13th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1993 32 years ago — 93 years old
A game designer developed the popular word game Scrabble in the early 1930s. This game combined elements of crossword puzzles and word games, utilizing letter tiles with varying point values to create words on a grid. Butts created the game while he was seeking a way to combine his interests in architecture and word play. It was initially called 'Lexiko' before being renamed Scrabble. The game gained popularity after its commercial launch in 1948, leading to a successful partnership with game manufacturer Selchow and Righter. The game's enduring appeal has resulted in numerous editions and variations, establishing a lasting legacy in the realm of board games.
Continue ReadingMaurice Buckley
Australian sergeant in World War I
Born
April 13th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1921 104 years ago — 29 years old
Served as a sergeant in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I. Participated in significant battles, including the Battle of the Somme. Demonstrated leadership and bravery in combat situations. Wounded in action, contributing to the war efforts through service in the trenches. His tenure ended with his death in 1921, marking a significant period in Australian military history.
Continue ReadingMadalyn Murray O'Hair
American atheist activist and founder
Born
April 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1995 30 years ago — 76 years old
An activist and founder of the American Atheists organization. Championed the separation of church and state and was a notable voice in the fight for atheistic rights. Gained national attention for legal battles against school-sponsored prayer, resulting in the landmark Supreme Court case Engel v. Vitale. Her activism contributed significantly to the visibility of the atheistic movement in the United States.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 30th
Allan Gotthelf
Philosopher focused on Ayn Rand's works
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in the study of philosophy, particularly the works of Ayn Rand. Contributed extensively to Rand's Objectivism, providing critical analysis and interpretations. Published articles and essays that clarified and defended Rand's ideas, influencing both academia and popular discourse. Held academic positions at several institutions, emphasizing the importance of rational thought and individualism in philosophical inquiry.
Continue ReadingWes Craven
Horror film director and screenwriter
Born
August 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the horror genre, this director significantly shaped modern horror cinema. This individual directed iconic films that include 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' and the 'Scream' series. These works introduced innovative storytelling techniques and distinct character tropes, influencing subsequent filmmakers. Alongside directing, contributions to screenwriting and production further established a lasting legacy in the horror film landscape.
Continue ReadingBipan Chandra
Indian historian and academic
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
An influential historian and academic, focused primarily on modern Indian history. Contributed extensively to the fields of nationalism and the freedom struggle in India. Worked as a professor at various esteemed institutions, including Jawaharlal Nehru University. Published numerous books, including 'India's Struggle for Independence', which analyzed the socio-political landscape of colonial India. Engaged in the development of critical historiography in India.
Continue ReadingSterling Morrison
Singer and guitarist with The Velvet Underground
Born
August 29th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1995 30 years ago — 53 years old
A significant figure in the rock music scene, played guitar and contributed to the sound of The Velvet Underground from its formation in the 1960s. The group, alongside notable artists such as Andy Warhol, influenced the development of alternative and art rock. Morrison's unique guitar style and distinctive contributions were integral to the band's renowned albums, including 'The Velvet Underground & Nico' and 'White Light/White Heat'. After the band's initial disbandment, pursued a career in academia and continued to perform occasionally.
Continue ReadingChristine Pascal
French actress and director of films
Born
November 29th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1996 29 years ago — 42 years old
Significant contributions to French cinema included acting, writing, and directing. Directed the film 'Le Petit Prince' and won acclaim for performances in 'Coup de Torchon' and 'LaGalerie des Glaces.' Worked on various projects showcasing talent in both front of and behind the camera.
Continue ReadingM. M. Kalburgi
Indian scholar and academic author
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
An influential scholar and academic focused on Kannada literature and philosophy. Authored several notable works that addressed various aspects of literature and cultural critique. Contributed to the academic community through teaching at multiple institutions. Participated in intellectual discourses regarding social issues and literary traditions, enhancing the understanding of Kannada heritage. His work engaged with themes of social reform and ethics within literature.
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