Thomas Gainsborough

English painter of landscapes and portraits

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

Yochanan Vollach

Israeli footballer and national team player
Born
May 14th, 1945 80 years ago

Born in 1945, this individual played professional football in Israel during the 1960s and 1970s. He primarily played as a midfielder. He had a significant tenure with Hapoel Tel Aviv, contributing to the team’s success in domestic championships. Additionally, he represented the Israeli national team, competing in several international fixtures.

Continue Reading

Miranda Cosgrove

American actress and singer from iCarly
Born
May 14th, 1993 32 years ago

An actress and singer, primarily recognized for the role of Carly Shay in the Nickelodeon series iCarly, which aired from 2007 to 2012. Started career in commercials and made guest appearances on television before landing a leading role. Also voiced Margo in the Despicable Me film franchise. Released an EP in 2010 titled 'High Maintenance'. Pursued education while working in entertainment, showcasing a balance between career and academics.

Continue Reading

Adolf Frederick

King of Sweden
Born
May 14th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1771 254 years ago — 60 years old

Ruled as King of Sweden from 1751 until death in 1771. The reign included efforts to balance power among the monarchy, nobility, and bourgeoisie. Aimed for a neutral foreign policy to preserve Sweden’s autonomy. Celebrated for a focus on domestic stability and economic reforms, which contributed to a stronger central government. Notable for abolishing certain taxes and introducing state-controlled monopolies for trade.

Continue Reading

George Murray Hulbert

American judge and politician
Born
May 14th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1950 75 years ago — 68 years old

Served as a judge in New York, contributing to significant legal decisions. Held the position of a U.S. Congressman, representing a district in New York. Participated in various legislative activities during tenure. Engaged in local governance and community development initiatives.

Continue Reading

Roy Halladay

Professional baseball pitcher, 2013 Hall of Fame
Born
May 14th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2017 7 years ago — 40 years old

A professional baseball pitcher played primarily for the Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved a remarkable career highlighted by two Cy Young Awards and a perfect game in 2010. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2019, Halladay established a reputation for excellence on the mound, contributing to both teams' successes during his tenure. Retired with a total of 203 wins and 2,117 strikeouts. Recognized for exceptional skill and sportsmanship throughout a notable career in Major League Baseball.

Continue Reading

Lionel Hill

Australian politician, 30th Premier
Born
May 14th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 30th Premier of South Australia. Held office during the 1940s and implemented several policies focused on post-war reconstruction and economic development. Contributed to the expansion of public services and infrastructure. Promoted social welfare initiatives and supported education reforms.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 2nd

William II of England

King of England, ruled 1087-1100
Born
1056 969 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1100 925 years ago — 44 years old

Ruled as King of England from 1087 until death in 1100. Second son of William the Conqueror, he ascended to the throne after the death of his father. His reign was marked by conflicts with his nobles and the church, including tensions with Anselm of Canterbury. He expanded royal authority and maintained the Norman influence in England.

Continue Reading

Antony Noghès

Businessman, Founder of Monaco Grand Prix
Born
September 13th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1978 47 years ago — 87 years old

A businessman in the automobile racing industry, established the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix in 1929, which became a cornerstone in the world of motorsport. This annual event, held on the streets of Monaco, is celebrated for its challenging circuit and glamorous backdrop. Through this initiative, contributed significantly to the development of automobile racing as a major sport. In addition to the Grand Prix, held various positions within motorsport organizations, influencing the sport's popularity and organizational structure.

Continue Reading

Heinrich Clauren

German author of romantic novels
Born
March 20th, 1771 254 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1854 171 years ago — 83 years old

An influential German author contributed significantly to the romantic literature of the early 19th century. Clauren's works often blended elements of fantasy and adventure with emotional and moral dilemmas. His most notable work, 'Die Geister', exemplified the gothic and romantic themes prevalent in his writing. He engaged with contemporary literary movements and was admired for his storytelling abilities. His writings not only entertained but also reflected the values and concerns of his time, appealing to a broad audience across Europe. Clauren's contributions to literature helped shape the evolving narrative styles of the Romantic period.

Continue Reading

Alexander Graham Bell

Engineer, inventor of the telephone
Born
March 3rd, 1847 178 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1922 103 years ago — 75 years old

A Scottish-Canadian engineer and inventor, revolutionized communication technology with the invention of the telephone. Formulated the first practical method of transferring vocal sounds over electric wires. Established the Bell Telephone Company, which played a crucial role in expanding telephone services in North America. Contributed to advancements in education for the deaf, co-founding the American Association to Promote the Teaching of Speech to the Deaf. Acted as a leading figure in early telecommunications.

Continue Reading

Ioryi Mucitano

Aromanian revolutionary leader
Died
August 2nd, 1911 114 years ago — None years old

An Aromanian revolutionary played a key role in advocating for the rights and recognition of the Aromanian people in the early 20th century. Active in various movements, focused on social and political issues affecting the Aromanian community. Engaged in efforts to foster cultural identity and national consciousness among Aromanians. Contributed to the broader struggles for autonomy and self-determination in the Balkans, particularly during a time of significant political change.

Continue Reading

Paul Goodman

American author and playwright
Born
September 9th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1972 53 years ago — 60 years old

An author, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to the fields of literature and education. Wrote the influential book 'Growing Up Absurd', which examined the dilemmas faced by youth in post-war America. Involved in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, promoting alternative educational methods and social reform. His works often focused on themes of modern life, societal norms, and individual fulfillment. Advocated for the integration of arts into education and criticized conventional schooling methods.

Continue Reading