Shulamith Firestone
Feminist author and activist
Born
1945
81 years ago
Died
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Canada
Links & References
An influential figure in the feminist movement, produced significant theoretical works focusing on women's liberation. Published major text titled 'The Dialectic of Sex' in 1970, which critiqued patriarchy and proposed revolutionary changes to gender roles. Engaged in organizing efforts within feminist groups and was a founding member of the feminist group the New York Radical Women. Advocated for issues related to women's rights and reproductive freedom throughout her career.
Authored 'The Dialectic of Sex'
Co-founded New York Radical Women
Other People Who Died on August 28th
Bohuslav Martinů
Czech-American composer and pianist
Born
December 8th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1959 66 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1890, a prominent composer and pianist contributed significantly to 20th-century classical music. He studied at the Prague Conservatory and later moved to Paris, where he became involved with the avant-garde music scene. Martinů's work was influenced by folk music, including that of his native Bohemia, as well as neoclassical styles. His compositions include symphonies, operas, and chamber music, showcasing a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. He eventually settled in the United States, where he continued to compose and gained recognition for his innovative compositions. His works, noted for their rhythmic vitality and intricate counterpoint, receive frequent performances worldwide.
Continue ReadingPhil Hill
Race car driver and 1961 F1 champion
Born
April 20th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2008 17 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent race car driver, achieved significant success in the world of motorsport. Competed in Formula One and became the first American driver to win the F1 World Championship in 1961, driving for Scuderia Ferrari. During a career spanning over two decades, participated in various prestigious races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Established a reputation for skill in endurance racing, contributing to the advancement of automotive performance and engineering.
Continue ReadingAxel Oxenstierna
Swedish Lord High Chancellor, statesman
Born
June 16th, 1583 443 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1654 371 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1583, a prominent Swedish statesman served as the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden during a period of political and military expansion. Played a crucial role in the Thirty Years' War, enhancing Sweden's influence in Europe. Administratively reformed the Swedish government and military, laying groundwork for Sweden's rise as a great power in the 17th century. Advocated for centralization of power and was instrumental in developing Sweden's administrative structure that included a more efficient taxation system and military organization. His policies had lasting effects on Swedish politics and governance.
Continue ReadingJulius Krohn
Finnish poet and journalist
Born
April 19th, 1835 191 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1888 137 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in Finnish literature and journalism, contributed significantly to the development of the Finnish language and national identity. Played a critical role in the Finnish literature movement during the 19th century. Actively promoted Finnish folk traditions and language through poetry and as an editor. His work included the editing of various literary journals and publications, facilitating the growth of Finnish as a literary language.
Continue ReadingReuvein Margolies
Ukrainian-Israeli author and scholar
Born
November 30th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1971 54 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Ukraine in 1889, a scholar who significantly contributed to Jewish literature and history. Immigrated to Israel, where worked as an educator and wrote extensively on Jewish culture, language, and history. Authored several books addressing Jewish identity and tradition, playing a role in the intellectual discourse of the time. Engaged in various educational initiatives to promote Jewish studies.
Continue ReadingWilliam Stafford
American poet and author of 'Writing the Australian'
Born
January 17th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1993 32 years ago — 79 years old
A significant figure in American poetry, contributed extensively to the literary world through poetry and prose. Publication of over 60 books, including poetry collections, essays, and works on writing. Served as a consultant in poetry to the Library of Congress. Received the National Book Award for Poetry in 1963 and the Wallace Stevens Award in 1979. The work focused on themes of nature, peace, and the human experience and often derived inspiration from personal experiences and the natural landscape.
Continue Reading