Thea Astley
Australian journalist and author
Astley contributed significantly to Australian literature with a focus on the social and cultural landscapes of the country. As a novelist, essays and short stories were published across various notable platforms. The body of work includes themes exploring identity, loss, and the human condition, often reflecting aspects of Australian life. Astley won several prestigious awards for her literary contributions, including the Miles Franklin Literary Award multiple times.
Authored 'The Acolyte'
Won the Miles Franklin Literary Award
Other People Born on August 25th
Ivan the Terrible
Russian Tsar and first ruler of Russia
Born
August 25th, 1530 495 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1584 441 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the Tsar of Russia from 1547 until death in 1584. The first ruler to be crowned as Tsar, Ivan centralized power and expanded the territory of Russia. Through military campaigns, he expanded into Siberia, gaining significant land and resources. His reign was marked by the establishment of the Oprichnina, a policy that involved political repression and the creation of a loyal military force. His legacy is characterized by both his expansionist policies and the sociopolitical turmoil of his reign.
Continue ReadingVõ Nguyên Giáp
Vietnamese general and politician
Born
August 25th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 102 years old
Served as a general in the Vietnam People's Army and as Minister of Defence during the Vietnam War. Played a key role in leading North Vietnamese forces against the French colonial and later the American military during the Vietnam War. Contributed to significant victories such as the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, which resulted in French withdrawal from Indochina, and the Tet Offensive, which significantly influenced public opinion about the Vietnam War. After the war, served in various political positions and remained influential in military strategy and politics until the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingMarshall Brickman
Director and Screenwriter for film and television
Born
August 25th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1939, this Brazilian-American director, producer, and screenwriter has made significant contributions to the film industry. He co-wrote the screenplay for the iconic film 'Annie Hall,' which won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. In addition to his work in film, he directed several television shows, including 'The Simpsons' and 'The Rosary Murders.' His career spans decades, impacting both cinematic and television landscapes.
Continue ReadingNikolaus Lenau
Austrian poet known for 'Spring Awakening'
Born
August 25th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1850 175 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1802, a poet and author emerged as a significant figure in German literature. Early works reflected Romantic themes, exploring nature and emotion. The poem cycle 'Spring Awakening' gained recognition for its vivid imagery and depth of feeling, addressing the struggles of youth and the passage of time. Lenau's writing often showcased a deep connection to his Hungarian heritage and the natural world, reflecting both personal and collective experiences. The poet's struggles with mental health influenced his later works, leading to a decline in creativity. His contributions to poetry were significant in the Romantic movement, influencing later writers. Lenau's life ended in 1850, but his literary legacy continued to resonate in literature.
Continue ReadingCamille Pin
French tennis player and doubles champion
Born
August 25th, 1981 44 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis, achieving success primarily in doubles. Represented France in various international competitions, contributing to the national team's efforts. Participated in multiple Grand Slam tournaments, showcasing competitive skills on the court. Had a notable career in the WTA tour, earning recognition for performances alongside partner Émilie Loit. Retired from professional play after a successful career spanning over a decade.
Continue ReadingMarie-Eugénie de Jésus
Founder of the Religious of the Assumption
Born
August 25th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
1898 128 years ago — 81 years old
A nun and saint, founded the Religious of the Assumption in 1839 in France. Played a significant role in promoting education for women and established schools across various countries. Committed to fostering spiritual growth and supporting the faith of women in society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 17th
Emperor Go-Fukakusa
Emperor of Japan during the Kamakura period
Born
June 28th, 1243 782 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1304 721 years ago — 61 years old
Became emperor of Japan in 1246 and reigned until 1259. During the reign, significant administrative changes took place within the imperial court. Following abdication, served as a retired emperor, influencing politics behind the scenes. The period saw ongoing conflicts between the imperial court and warrior clans, impacting the political landscape of the time. His reign was part of the Kamakura era, marked by the emergence of the samurai class and a shift in power dynamics.
Continue ReadingIra Gershwin
American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born
December 6th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1983 42 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.
Continue ReadingShamsur Rahman
Bangladeshi poet and journalist, wrote 'Joiboti Kobi'
Born
October 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent poet and journalist, contributed significantly to Bengali literature. Worked as an editor for various publications and founded a poetry movement that celebrated the Bengali language and culture. His poetry often reflected the social and political landscape of Bangladesh. Writings explored themes of love, loss, and identity. Engaged actively in the literature of protest during the political turmoil in Bangladesh.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Da Ponte
Opera librettist for Mozart's works
Born
March 10th, 1749 276 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1838 187 years ago — 89 years old
An Italian-American priest and poet, contributed significantly to the world of opera through collaborations with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Wrote librettos for several operas including 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'Cosi fan tutte.' After moving to America, engaged in various pursuits, including founding an Italian-language school in New York. His literary contributions continue to be celebrated in the realms of music and literature.
Continue ReadingWilliam Jervois
Governor of South Australia
Born
September 10th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1897 128 years ago — 75 years old
Born in England, served as an engineer and politician. Held the position of the 10th Governor of South Australia from 1877 to 1883. Prior to governance, contributed to military engineering in various locations, including significant work on fortifications. Oversaw the development of infrastructure and governance frameworks during tenure in South Australia.
Continue ReadingRadoje Domanović
Serbian journalist and author
Born
February 16th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1908 117 years ago — 35 years old
Born in Serbia, Domanović became an influential journalist and author in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work primarily focused on social and political themes, often critiquing contemporary societal issues. He gained recognition for his satirical writings that highlighted the absurdities of bureaucracy and nationalism. Domanović's essays and stories resonated with the public, solidifying his place in Serbian literature. His legacy includes both literary contributions and the impact of his journalism on Serbian society during a transformative period.
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