Thorne Smith
American author of comic fantasy novels
A writer primarily recognized for comic fantasy works, this author published several popular novels in the 1920s and 1930s. The most renowned work is 'Topper,' which features a whimsical narrative about a man who encounters the ghosts of a pair of fun-loving spirits. Other notable novels include 'Night Life of the Gods' and 'The Stray Lamb.' This writer's style combined humor with elements of the supernatural, establishing a unique niche in American literature during the early 20th century.
Authored 'Topper', a comic fantasy novel
Wrote 'Night Life of the Gods', featuring mythological themes
Other People Born on March 27th
James McNeill
Irish politician, Governor-General of the Irish Free State
Born
March 27th, 1869 157 years ago
Died
1938 88 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1869, served as the second Governor-General of the Irish Free State from 1922 to 1928. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Free State's governance and worked on behalf of the British Crown. Promoted social and economic development within the newly formed state and managed relations between various political factions. Involved in public service throughout his career, contributing to local and national governance efforts.
Continue ReadingVincent d'Indy
French composer and music educator
Born
March 27th, 1851 175 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1931 94 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in late 19th and early 20th century music, this individual contributed significantly to the French musical landscape. Studied under Cesar Franck and later became a leading advocate for the works of Richard Wagner in France. Established the Schola Cantorum in Paris, which focused on teaching and preserving sacred music. Composed orchestral works, operas, and chamber music, with 'Symphonie sur un chant montagnard' and 'Fervaal' being among his most recognized pieces.
Continue ReadingKarl Pearson
Mathematician and eugenicist
Born
March 27th, 1857 169 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1936 90 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of statistics and was instrumental in developing methods that formed the foundation of modern statistical theory. Established the discipline of eugenics in the UK, advocating for selective breeding to improve the human population. As the first chair of the Department of Applied Statistics at University College London, introduced numerous statistical methodologies and principles that continue to be employed today.
Continue ReadingRuperto Chapí
Spanish composer; founded authors' society
Born
March 27th, 1851 175 years ago
Died
1909 117 years ago — 58 years old
A Spanish composer, contributed significantly to the realm of zarzuela, a Spanish lyrical drama that alternates between spoken and sung scenes. Co-founded the Sociedad General de Autores y Editores, which aimed to protect the rights of authors and composers in Spain. Worked with various musical forms and brought a distinct style to zarzuela that influenced its evolution during the late 19th century. Promoted the importance of intellectual property rights for creators in the music industry and supported the establishment of an organized approach to authorial rights in Spain.
Continue ReadingJohn Ballance
Journalist and Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born
March 27th, 1839 187 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1893 133 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Ireland in 1839, a journalist and politician served as the 14th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1891 until 1893. His tenure included significant legislation in areas such as social reform and land rights, contributing to the development of the country's welfare state. Before his premiership, held various political roles and founded the New Zealand Times. Advocated for the interests of farmers, aligning agricultural reforms with National party principles. Death occurred in 1893 while in office, resulting in a significant shift in political leadership.
Continue ReadingMichael Jackson
Pop musician and 'King of Pop'
Born
March 27th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 67 years old
Celebrated as one of the most influential music artists in history, he gained prominence with the album 'Thriller', which remains the best-selling album of all time. His career began with the Jackson 5, where he demonstrated exceptional talent at a young age. Transitioning to a solo career, he released numerous chart-topping hits, such as 'Billie Jean', 'Beat It', and 'Smooth Criminal'. Shifts in his public persona and controversies marked his later years, but his contributions to music and dance retained lasting significance in popular culture. He received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 21st
Inigo Jones
Architect, designed Queen's House
Born
July 15th, 1573 452 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1652 374 years ago — 78 years old
An English architect who played a pivotal role in introducing classical architecture to England during the early 17th century. He is noted for defining the English Palladian style and had significant influence on subsequent generations of architects. Significant works include the design of the Queen's House in Greenwich, recognized as the first truly classical building in England, and Wilton House, which showcases the Palladian style. His work laid the foundational principles for architectural design in the country.
Continue ReadingÉtienne Aignan
French author and academic
Born
April 9th, 1773 253 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1824 202 years ago — 51 years old
Born in France in 1773, this individual was an influential author and academic who contributed to the literary scene in the 19th century. Primarily involved in the promotion and study of French literature, he engaged in academic pursuits that helped shape cultural discussions of the time. His works reflected a deep understanding of literary movements and influenced both contemporaries and future scholars.
Continue ReadingAl-Muhtadi
Muslim caliph and political leader
Died
June 21st, 870 1156 years ago — None years old
Ascended to the caliphate in 869, Al-Muhtadi managed a period of political and military challenges within the Abbasid Empire. His reign lasted until 870 when he died under uncertain circumstances. His leadership was marked by efforts to stabilize the caliphate amidst internal strife and external threats. Al-Muhtadi's rule also involved military campaigns against the Byzantine Empire and managing the complexities of various provincial leaders' allegiances.
Continue ReadingWenceslaus II of Bohemia
King of Bohemia and Poland
Born
September 27th, 1271 754 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1305 721 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1271, Wenceslaus II became the King of Bohemia and later the King of Poland. Ascended to the throne of Bohemia in 1283, and his reign marked the rise of the Přemyslid dynasty. He strengthened the kingdom through economic development and military conquests. In 1300, Wenceslaus II was crowned King of Poland, where he sought to consolidate power and reform the administration. His rule promoted trade within regions, contributing to the growth of urban centers. His legacy included the establishment of a framework for future governance in both Bohemia and Poland.
Continue ReadingMichael Schwerner
American civil rights activist
Born
November 6th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1964 62 years ago — 24 years old
An American civil rights activist advocated for racial equality and social justice. Schwerner was involved in efforts to integrate schools and support voting rights for African Americans in the South during the Civil Rights Movement. In 1964, he helped organize the Freedom Summer campaign in Mississippi, which aimed to increase voter registration among African Americans. Schwerner, along with two other activists, was murdered by members of the Ku Klux Klan while working to register black voters. His death drew national attention to the struggles faced by civil rights workers and spurred legislative action.
Continue ReadingArthur Gorrie
Hobby shop proprietor and entrepreneur
Born
May 19th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1992 34 years ago — 70 years old
Established a successful hobby shop that became a significant resource for enthusiasts in Australia. Provided a wide range of hobby supplies and fostered a community around various hobbies, including model making and gaming. The business served as a gathering place for hobbyists and contributed to the local culture of the area.
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