Shunryū Suzuki

Zen monk and author of 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind'

Shunryū Suzuki - Zen monk and author of 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind'
Born

May 18th, 1904
120 years ago

Died

December 4th, 1971
53 years ago — 67 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A Japanese-American monk and educator, contributed significantly to the spread of Zen Buddhism in the West. Arrived in the United States in the 1950s and founded the San Francisco Zen Center, which became a pivotal institution for Zen practice in America. Authored the influential book 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind', which offers insights into Zen meditation and principles. Emphasized the importance of practice and the cultivation of beginner's mind in Zen teachings.

Founded the San Francisco Zen Center

Authored 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind'

Other People Born on May 18th

Lee Hendrie

Footballer and former Aston Villa player
Born
May 18th, 1977 47 years ago

Played as a midfielder during a career spanning over a decade. Made significant contributions to clubs including Aston Villa and Sheffield United. Represented the England U21 national team, earning multiple caps. Known for skillful passing and playmaking abilities. Transitioned into coaching and media roles after retiring from professional football.

Continue Reading

Walter Hawkins

Gospel music singer and pastor
Born
May 18th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1949, a prominent figure in American gospel music, served as a pastor and recorded several influential albums. Founded the Love Center Church in Oakland, California. Pioneered contemporary gospel music, blending traditional hymns with modern sounds. Achieved significant acclaim in the gospel music community.

Continue Reading

Minakata Kumagusu

Biologist and naturalist, notable ethnologist
Born
May 18th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Japan, contributed significantly to biology, natural history, and ethnology. Conducted pioneering research on fungi and advocated for the understanding of ecological systems. Published various works, emphasizing the importance of environmental preservation and cultural understanding. Fostering connections between nature and culture, the insect collections and studies enriched both academic and public knowledge. Engaged in the study of local lore, blending scientific inquiry with traditional knowledge.

Continue Reading

Henri Sauguet

French composer of classical music
Born
May 18th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1901, a composer associated with French classical music. Studied at the Paris Conservatory under notable teachers. Contributed to various genres, including orchestral, operatic, and chamber music. Collaborated with prominent figures in the arts, leading to a significant body of work that reflects the evolution of 20th-century French music. Emphasized melody and harmony in compositions, creating works for numerous instruments and ensembles. Helped develop the unique style of French music during a transformative period.

Continue Reading

Javier Cárdenas

Spanish singer and television presenter
Born
May 18th, 1970 54 years ago

A Spanish singer and television presenter gained prominence in the entertainment industry. Initiated a music career that included several albums and hit songs. Transitioned into television, hosting popular shows and serving as a radio presenter. Became a recognized figure in Spanish media through engaging interview styles and entertainment segments.

Continue Reading

W. G. Sebald

Novelist known for 'The Emigrants'
Born
May 18th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2001 23 years ago — 57 years old

An influential writer, focused on themes of memory, exile, and the impact of history. Worked primarily in German and was awarded several literary prizes. Utilized a unique narrative style, blending fiction with essays and photographs. Spent a significant part of his life in England, where he taught and published extensively. 'The Emigrants', a seminal work, explored the lives of displaced individuals and their ties to the past. Other notable works include 'Austerlitz' and 'Vertigo', which delve into similar themes.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 4th

Luigi Galvani

Physician and physicist; Galvanism
Born
September 9th, 1737 287 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1798 226 years ago — 61 years old

An Italian physician and physicist conducted pioneering research in bioelectricity. Galvani's experiments with frog legs provided crucial insights into the relationship between electricity and living tissues. These discoveries laid the groundwork for the field of electrophysiology, influencing future studies on muscle contractions and nervous system functions.

Continue Reading

William Sturgeon

Inventor of the electric motor
Born
May 22nd, 1783 241 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1850 174 years ago — 67 years old

An English physicist contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. Sturgeon invented the first practical electromagnet and devised the first electric motor, which demonstrated the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy. His work laid the groundwork for future advancements in electric machinery and engineering. Sturgeon also conducted research on the use of electromagnets in telegraphs. His innovations provided a foundation for the development of various electrical devices that became integral to modern technology.

Continue Reading

Cardinal Richelieu

French cardinal and chief minister
Born
September 9th, 1585 439 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1642 382 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in 17th-century France, served as the chief minister to King Louis XIII from 1624 until his death in 1642. Played a crucial role in centralizing the power of the French monarchy, reducing the influence of the nobility, and strengthening the economy. Advocated for France's involvement in the Thirty Years' War, which transformed the country's regional power dynamics. Established the principles of absolutism that influenced French governance for decades.

Continue Reading

Gregor MacGregor

Scottish soldier and explorer
Born
1786 239 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1845 179 years ago — 59 years old

A Scottish soldier and explorer, involved in British military campaigns in the early 19th century. Participated in the Peninsular War and later claimed leadership of a fictitious settlement in Venezuela called Poyais. Promoted his fabricated territory to investors and immigrants, resulting in financial losses and hardship for many. Returned to Britain to advocate for Poyais despite growing skepticism about its existence. Died in 1845.

Continue Reading

Valentina Visconti

Noblewoman, wife of Louis of Valois
Died
December 4th, 1408 616 years ago — None years old

Married Louis of Valois, Duke of Orléans. Valentina Visconti played a significant role in the political machinations of early 15th-century France. As a member of the powerful Visconti family, she influenced the power dynamics through her marriage. Valentina served as a political ally and symbol of unity between the families of Visconti and Valois during a tumultuous period, marked by rivalries and conflicts. Her life was intertwined with the intricate politics of the French nobility. Valentina's lineage connected significant houses and shaped alliances within the power struggles of the time.

Continue Reading

Ivana Kobilca

Slovenian painter recognized for genre art
Born
December 20th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1926 98 years ago — 64 years old

Birth occurred in Slovenia in 1861. Kobilca studied at various art academies in Munich and Paris, where influences included prominent art movements. Specializing in genre painting, she captured everyday life and the female experience, becoming a significant figure in the Slovene art scene. Kobilca's work contributed to the national art identity, particularly through themes inspired by her surroundings and social dynamics. Her most recognized pieces display an adept use of color and light, reflecting both technical skill and emotional depth. Throughout her career, Kobilca exhibited works widely in exhibitions, establishing a legacy that continues to inspire contemporary artists.

Continue Reading