Stanley Elkin

American novelist and essayist

Stanley Elkin - American novelist and essayist
Born

1930
95 years ago

Died

May 31st, 1995
30 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Elkin was an American novelist and essayist recognized for unique narrative style and blend of humor and tragedy. The author published several novels, short stories, and essays throughout his career. Prominent works include 'The Magic Kingdom', 'George Mills', and 'The Living End', which explored themes of identity and existence. Elkin received the National Book Award for Fiction in 1989 for 'The Magic Kingdom'. His contributions to literature were significant in exploring human consciousness.

Published 'The Magic Kingdom'

Received National Book Award for 'The Magic Kingdom'

Authored 'George Mills'

Wrote 'The Living End'

Other People Who Died on May 31st

Ashikaga Yoshimitsu

Japanese shōgun and Zen patron
Born
September 25th, 1358 667 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1408 617 years ago — 49 years old

Served as the third shōgun of the Ashikaga shogunate from 1394 until death in 1408. Played a significant role in the Muromachi period of Japan, fostering culture and political stability. Initiated a period of relative peace and patronized the arts, including Noh theater. Expanded the influence of the Ashikaga clan and established the foundations for the flourishing of Japanese culture during later periods.

Continue Reading

Géza II

King of Hungary, leader during Crusades
Born
1130 895 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1162 863 years ago — 32 years old

Became king of Hungary in 1141, ruling until 1162. During reign, strengthened the kingdom's power and authority. Played a significant role in the politics of Central Europe, aligning with other nations and engaging in military campaigns. Notably involved in the Second Crusade, seeking to support the Byzantine Empire and secure the Hungarian borders from external threats.

Continue Reading

Mary Soames

English author and biographer
Born
September 15th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

This English author and biographer focused on the life and works of significant historical figures, particularly within her own family. Daughter of the prominent statesman Winston Churchill, industrial and political contexts shaped many of her writings. Awarded the prestigious Pen Award for Biography, contributions included the biography of her father, which provided insight into his life and character. Engaged in various literary endeavors, her work spanned over several decades, encompassing both historical analysis and personal narratives.

Continue Reading

Raymond Davis Jr.

Chemist and physicist, Nobel laureate
Born
October 14th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1914, a significant figure in the field of physics and chemistry. Developed techniques for detecting neutrinos, which contributed to the understanding of solar processes. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2002 for groundbreaking work in experimental particle physics. His research provided crucial insights into neutrino emissions from the sun and helped confirm theories regarding solar energy production.

Continue Reading

Joachim Neander

Theologian and Hymn Writer
Born
1650 375 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1680 345 years ago — 30 years old

Served as a theologian and educator in Germany during the late 17th century. Contributed significantly to Christian hymnody, particularly within the Reformed tradition. His most notable work includes the hymn 'Praise to the Lord, the Almighty', which is still sung in many churches today. Active in the preparation of religious instruction and ecclesiastical leadership, Neander's work focused on enhancing the spiritual life of congregations.

Continue Reading

A. Jeyaratnam Wilson

Sri Lankan historian and author
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
May 31st, 2000 25 years ago — 72 years old

This historian and academic contributed to the understanding of Sri Lanka's political and social dynamics through extensive research. He wrote several critical works, including 'Sri Lankan Tamil Nationalism: A History of the Tamil Federation of the 1930s,' which analyzed the evolution of Tamil nationalism in the island. As a prominent figure within the academic community, he held positions at various universities and engaged with contemporary issues on ethnicity and identity in Sri Lanka. His expertise in history and political science fostered a greater comprehension of the complexities surrounding the Sri Lankan civil conflict.

Continue Reading