Simone Weil
French mystic and philosopher

Born
February 3rd, 1909
116 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1943
81 years ago — 34 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
France
Links & References
Contributed to philosophy and mysticism through a unique blend of ideas about labor, religion, and social justice. Explored various topics such as attention and gravity, leading to significant concepts in philosophy. Worked in factories to understand the worker's experience and wrote on the nature of force. Critiqued political ideologies and engaged deeply with religious thought, emphasizing the importance of compassion and attention in human experience.
Wrote 'The Need for Roots'
Developed concepts of attention and force
Critiqued social and political structures
Other People Born on February 3rd
Lou Criger
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1892 to 1910. He spent significant time with teams such as the St. Louis Browns and the Boston Red Sox. Managed the Red Sox from 1907 to 1908. Contributed to the team's success during a formative period in baseball history.
Continue ReadingJuan Negrín
A physician and politician, held the position of 67th Prime Minister of Spain during the Spanish Civil War. Led the Spanish government in exile after the war, working to maintain the republican cause. Advocated for international support for the Spanish Republic and sought to coordinate anti-fascist efforts across Europe. Entered politics in the 1930s and played a crucial role in organizing the medical services for the Republican Army. Contributed to various policies aimed at modernizing Spain's healthcare system.
Continue ReadingJoseph Forlenze
An Italian ophthalmologist and surgeon, contributed significantly to the field of eye surgery in the 18th century. Developed techniques that advanced cataract surgery, laying groundwork for modern ophthalmological practices. Published works on eye diseases and surgical methods, influencing future generations of surgeons in Italy and beyond.
Continue ReadingShlomo Goren
Born in Poland, a rabbi and general served in the Israel Defense Forces. Contributed to the spiritual guidance of soldiers during critical periods of Israel's history. Involved in the 1967 Six-Day War and took part in the reunification of Jerusalem. Later served as the Chief Rabbi of the IDF and played a significant role in establishing military chaplaincy in Israel. Worked on integrating Jewish law into military practices and training, significantly influencing religious services within the armed forces.
Continue ReadingGeorge Adamson
An author and wildlife conservationist focused on the preservation of lions in Africa. Established a lion rehabilitation program in Kenya. Wrote several books, including 'Born Free', detailing the life of a lioness raised in captivity and later released into the wild. His work inspired numerous conservation efforts and a popular film adaptation of 'Born Free'. Worked with various organizations to promote wildlife education.
Continue ReadingSarah Kane
An influential English playwright, recognized for her exploration of intense emotional themes and provocative subject matter in theater. Contributions to contemporary drama include works that challenged traditional narratives and form. 'Blasted', premiered in 1995, received critical acclaim for its stark portrayal of violence and human suffering. Subsequent works such as 'Cleansed', 'Crave', and '4.48 Psychosis' continued to explore the complexities of mental illness, relationships, and existential despair, establishing a distinct voice in modern theater. Kane's works often featured elements of shock and raw emotion, prompting discussions on censorship and the representation of trauma.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 24th
Hanna Reitsch
Born in 1912, a pioneering test pilot in Germany. Worked with the German military during World War II and was involved in the development of advanced aircraft. Reitsch flew various aircraft types, including the Messerschmitt Me 163 rocket plane and the Focke-Wulf Fw 190. After the war, she continued to work in aviation, promoting flight safety and training new pilots. Played a crucial role in demonstrating the capabilities of German aircraft in the early era of jet and rocket propulsion. Despite controversies surrounding her affiliations, her contributions to aviation technology remain noted.
Continue ReadingSteve Franken
An American actor participated in various television series and films. Gained recognition for notable roles, particularly in 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'The Man from U.N.C.L.E.'. Appeared in numerous guest spots across popular shows, contributing significantly to television in the 1960s and 1970s. Career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility in character portrayals. Contributed to both comedic and dramatic narratives in entertainment.
Continue ReadingNicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot
A prominent physicist and engineer, contributed significantly to the field of thermodynamics. Formulated the Carnot cycle, which laid the foundation for the second law of thermodynamics. Focused on the efficiency of heat engines and proposed a theoretical model for understanding heat transfer. His work established principles that influenced later scientists and engineers in the study of energy conversion.
Continue ReadingCasimir III
Duke of Pomerania served during the 14th century and played a significant role in the region's governance. Ascended to power in the early 1340s, administering the territories with a focus on strengthening the duchy. Active in regional politics, built alliances with neighboring states, and participated in various conflicts. Alongside military leadership, promoted economic development and trade, contributing to Pomerania's integration within the Hanseatic League. The duchy experienced consolidation under his rule, leading to greater stability in the region. His reign concluded with his death in 1372.
Continue ReadingEttore Muti
An Italian aviator and politician, his career spanned both military service and political engagement. Muti served as a pilot during the Spanish Civil War and World War II, showcasing his aviation skills in various operations. His political activities included affiliation with the National Fascist Party, where he held prominent positions. Muti was involved in significant military campaigns and missions that highlighted his commitment to fascist ideals.
Continue ReadingRose of Lima
Born in 1586, this individual became a prominent mystic and a saint within the Catholic Church. Recognized for exceptional piety and devotion, she dedicated her life to prayers and charity in Lima, Peru. Her commitment to serving the less fortunate included caring for the sick and poor, often undertaking severe austerities. In 1617, she was the first person in the Americas to be canonized as a saint, reflecting her importance in Catholic devotion. This individual’s feast day is celebrated on August 23.
Continue Reading