Shel Silverstein
Poet and illustrator, 'The Giving Tree'
A poet and illustrator, gained prominence through children's literature. Authored widely read books including 'The Giving Tree' and 'Where the Sidewalk Ends'. Worked as a cartoonist and songwriter, contributing music to notable artists such as Johnny Cash. Established a unique style combining whimsical stories with profound themes, making a lasting impact on children's poetry.
Wrote 'The Giving Tree', a classic children's book
Published 'Where the Sidewalk Ends', a celebrated poetry collection
Composed songs for artists, including Johnny Cash
Other People Born on September 25th
Nikolay Raevsky
Russian general and political figure
Born
September 25th, 1771 254 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1829 196 years ago — 58 years old
Born in Russia, a military officer gained prominence during the Napoleonic Wars. Raevsky played a significant role in key battles such as the Battle of Borodino in 1812, where he commanded the 2nd Corps of the Russian Army. Post-war, he participated in various political activities and served in the State Council, contributing to military reforms. Raevsky held the rank of General of Infantry by the end of his career, reflecting his experience and leadership in the military. His legacy includes a reputation as a prominent figure in 19th-century Russian military circles.
Continue ReadingRobert Laxalt
Author of 'The Man Who Sold the World'
Born
September 25th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2001 24 years ago — 77 years old
An American author focused on themes related to the culture and landscape of the American West, particularly Nevada. Wrote several novels and works of nonfiction, drawing from personal experiences and heritage. Contributed significantly to the representation of Basque culture in literature. His literary career included a mix of historical and contemporary subjects, revealing insights into the lives of his characters and their environments.
Continue ReadingJuliet Prowse
Actress known for 'Funny Face'
Born
September 25th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1996 29 years ago — 59 years old
Born in South Africa, a prominent actress, singer, and dancer gained recognition for performances in film, television, and theater. Prowse gained significant acclaim for starring in the film 'Funny Face' alongside Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn. Additionally, notable television appearances included roles on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Hollywood Palace'. Prowse also showcased her dance skills on Broadway, contributing to productions such as 'Can-Can'. Her career spanned several decades, with performances reflecting a blend of talent in singing and dancing, further solidifying her presence during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingWenzel Pichl
Czech violinist and composer
Born
September 25th, 1741 284 years ago
Died
1805 221 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1741, this individual contributed significantly to the classical music scene in Europe. As a violinist and composer, engagements included performances across notable cities like Vienna and Prague. The career also involved direction of musical ensembles, showcasing a repertoire that mixed contemporary styles with traditional forms. Compositions included symphonies, chamber music, and operas, reflecting the musical trends of the late 18th century. This individual’s works influenced the development of the string quartet genre during this period.
Continue ReadingRichard Harvey
Mandolin player and composer
Born
September 25th, 1953 72 years ago
Born in 1953, a musician specializing in mandolin and keyboards. Composed music for films and collaborations with various artists across genres. Contributed to the development of mandolin performance in contemporary music. Notable work includes contributions to soundtracks and original compositions across media.
Continue ReadingSteve Forrest
American drummer, played for Placebo
Born
September 25th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 26 years old
A drummer, prominently associated with the band Placebo since 2006. Contributed to the band's sound through various albums and tours. Prior to joining Placebo, worked with other bands and gained experience in the music industry. Active in live performances and studio recordings, showcasing a blend of alternative rock styles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 10th
Richard Glücks
German SS officer overseeing concentration camps
Born
April 22nd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1945 80 years ago — 56 years old
Served as an SS officer and was responsible for multiple concentration camps during World War II. Held the position of inspector of concentration camps, overseeing the conditions and operations within these facilities. Managed the camps of Auschwitz and other locations, significantly contributing to the implementation of the Nazi regime's policies regarding internment and extermination.
Continue ReadingThomas Young
English physicist and physiologist
Born
June 13th, 1773 252 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1829 196 years ago — 55 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of physics and physiology in the early 19th century. Made foundational discoveries in wave theory and the nature of light. Conducted pioneering work on the human eye's accommodation and the theory of color vision. Published several influential papers that provided insights into the wave-particle duality of light and established the concept of the Young's modulus in material science.
Continue ReadingJohn Wayne Gacy
American serial killer and rapist
Born
March 17th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1994 31 years ago — 52 years old
Engaged in criminal activities starting in the 1960s, a series of murders occurred across Illinois. Worked as a contractor and was involved in local politics. Arrested in 1978, investigations uncovered numerous bodies buried on his property and in nearby areas. Convicted of the murders of 33 young men and boys, sentenced to death in 1980, and executed in 1994.
Continue ReadingGunnar Sønsteby
Norwegian military captain and author
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old
A military captain during World War II, contributed to the Norwegian resistance against Nazi occupation. Participated in various sabotage operations against German forces. After the war, became an author, chronicling experiences during the resistance movement through books that highlighted bravery and strategy. Sønsteby received national honors for his efforts in fighting for Norway's freedom.
Continue ReadingPeter Weiss
German playwright and painter
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1982 43 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent figure in German literature, Weiss specialized in theater and visual arts. Contributions included significant plays that explored themes of oppression, war, and existentialism. 'The Investigation', a play based on the Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, critically examined the Holocaust. Also engaged in surrealist painting, showcasing complex imagery and social critique.
Continue ReadingDavid Goodall
Botanist and ecologist with research impact
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2018 7 years ago — 104 years old
A prominent botanist and ecologist, contributed significantly to the field of plant biology. Focused on the study of Australian flora and ecology, published numerous research papers, particularly regarding vascular plants. Worked extensively with the Council of Heads of Australian Herbaria, promoting plant conservation and biodiversity. Advocated for environmental sustainability and the importance of botanical research in addressing ecological challenges. Continued to work actively in scientific research well into old age, reflecting a commitment to plant science and education.
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