Thomas Gainsborough
English painter of landscapes and portraits
Born
May 14th, 1727
298 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1788
237 years ago — 61 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Born in 1727, this painter specialized in portraiture and landscape painting. His work displayed a mastery of color and light, contributing significantly to English art. The most notable creations include 'The Blue Boy' and the portrait of Sarah Siddons. Operating primarily in Bath and London, he was a key figure in the 18th-century art scene. Gainsborough established a significant reputation through his innovative approach to depicting subjects with a naturalistic quality, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity in painting. He also was a founding member of the Royal Academy, further solidifying his legacy in the arts.
Created 'The Blue Boy'
Painted the portrait of Sarah Siddons
Co-founded the Royal Academy
Other People Born on May 14th
Brent Harvey
Played Australian rules football for North Melbourne Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL) from 1996 to 2016. Recognized as one of the greatest players in the league, he holds the record for the most games played in AFL history with 432 appearances. His career included multiple All-Australian selections, highlighting his skills and consistent performance. Played an integral role in North Melbourne's 1999 premiership victory, showcasing leadership on and off the field. Retired as a significant figure in Australian football.
Continue ReadingHeather Wheeler
Served as the Member of Parliament for North Derbyshire from 2010 to 2019. Held the position of Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government from 2018 to 2019. Prior to her parliamentary career, worked in business and local government, being involved in various community initiatives. Actively participated in legislative processes and contributed to debates relevant to local and national interests.
Continue ReadingZack Ryder
Gained prominence in professional wrestling, mostly with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Played significant roles in various storylines and held championships. Formed a popular tag team known for engaging with fans through social media, particularly Twitter. Utilized an internet-based series to enhance personal brand and engage with the wrestling community, leading to increased recognition. Notable for winning the WWE United States Championship and competing in high-profile matches at major events.
Continue ReadingSiân Phillips
An accomplished actress and singer, this individual gained prominence in both theatre and television. Prominent roles included playing the character Livia in the BBC historical drama 'I, Claudius' and portraying the title character in the one-woman play 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Career highlights span several decades, with performances in a variety of notable productions across the UK and beyond, showcasing a strong presence in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingEarle Combs
An American baseball player and coach, recognized for a significant playing career in Major League Baseball. Primarily played center field for the New York Yankees from 1924 to 1935. Displayed exceptional batting skills and contributed to the Yankees' victories in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Transitioned into coaching after retiring as a player, mentoring future generations of baseball talent.
Continue ReadingSidney Bechet
A prominent early jazz musician, played the soprano saxophone and clarinet. Contributed to the development of jazz in both the United States and Europe. Became a key figure in the New Orleans jazz scene, later moved to France where he gained popularity. Composed several pieces that are celebrated within the jazz community.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 2nd
Artur Sirk
Served as a soldier in the Estonian War of Independence. Acted as a lawyer and participated in the establishment of legal frameworks in Estonia. Held various political roles and contributed to post-war governance. Played a significant role in forming parliamentary procedures in the newly independent state. Worked to advance national interests during a period of political instability and conflict.
Continue ReadingKatō Kiyomasa
A prominent daimyō during the late Sengoku period in Japan, contributed significantly to the unification efforts under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Renowned for military prowess and leadership, played a crucial role in the Kyushu Campaign which involved the conquest of the island of Kyushu. Known for the construction of Kumamoto Castle, which became a symbol of power and strategic importance in the region. Engaged actively in various military campaigns against rival clans and was noted for his strength and tactical skill.
Continue ReadingWalter Terence Stace
Born in England in 1886, Stace served as both an academic and civil servant in the United States. He studied philosophy at the University of Oxford and later became a professor of philosophy. Stace contributed significantly to the field of mysticism, arguing for the validity of mystical experiences. His influential works include 'Mysticism and Philosophy' and 'The Teachings of the Mystics', where he explored the nature of mystical experiences and their relevance to philosophy. Stace emphasized the relationship between mysticism and philosophical thought throughout his career, impacting subsequent philosophical discourse.
Continue ReadingWild Bill Hickok
Born in 1837, a lawman and gunfighter. Served as a law enforcement officer in various frontier towns, including Abilene, Kansas. Gained a reputation for exceptional marksmanship and quick draw. Involved in various shootouts, solidifying a legendary status in American folklore. Also worked as a scout for the Union Army during the Civil War and served as a performer in Wild West shows. His life inspired numerous books and films.
Continue ReadingPatriarch John VIII of Constantinople
Served as Patriarch of Constantinople from 1043 until death in 1075. Engaged in significant theological disputes, notably with the Latin Church. Contributed to church governance and liturgical practices during a period of political instability in Byzantium. Worked on fostering relationships with various Eastern Christian communities.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Ali of Egypt
An Ottoman Albanian commander who rose to prominence in the early 19th century. Established a dynasty in Egypt and implemented numerous military and economic reforms. His leadership marked the beginning of modern Egypt. Expanded the military and strengthened the economy through industrialization and agricultural reforms. Preserved Egypt's autonomy within the Ottoman Empire and initiated significant infrastructural projects.
Continue Reading