Tracy K. Smith
American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
An accomplished poet and educator, this individual has contributed significantly to contemporary poetry. Served as the United States Poet Laureate from 2017 to 2019, producing a distinguished body of work characterized by thematic depth and accessibility. Authored several poetry collections, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning 'Life on Mars,' which reflects on themes of loss, science, and the cosmos. Engaged in teaching at various higher education institutions, emphasizing the importance of poetry in understanding human experience.
Won the Pulitzer Prize for 'Life on Mars'
Served as United States Poet Laureate
Other People Born on April 16th
Chance the Rapper
American rapper and music activist
Born
April 16th, 1993 32 years ago
A prominent figure in hip-hop, gained recognition through mixtapes, particularly 'Acid Rap' released in 2013. Released the critically acclaimed coloring book in 2016, which earned three Grammy Awards, making history as the first streaming-only album to win a Grammy. In addition to music, engaged in various philanthropic efforts, including funding mental health services and supporting public schools in Chicago. Established a record label, Social Experiment, focusing on independent music distribution.
Continue ReadingRose Talbot Bullard
American medical doctor and professor
Born
April 16th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1915 110 years ago — 51 years old
Graduated from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1889. Specialized in gynecology and obstetrics. Served as a professor at the University of California, San Francisco. Actively contributed to medical education and established standards for women's health care during her tenure.
Continue ReadingJohn Millington Synge
Irish playwright, wrote 'The Playboy of the Western World'
Born
April 16th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1909 116 years ago — 37 years old
A prominent playwright and poet from Ireland, contributed significantly to the Irish Literary Revival movement. Best recognized for the play 'The Playboy of the Western World', which stirred controversy upon its debut in 1907 due to its themes and portrayal of rural Irish life. Worked as a member of the Abbey Theatre Company, collaborating with notable figures in Irish theatre. Also wrote several other plays, essays, and poetry, drawing inspiration from Irish folklore and the Gaelic language. Suffered from health issues throughout life and died at a relatively young age.
Continue ReadingMirai Nagasu
Figure skater; Olympic Medalist
Born
April 16th, 1993 32 years ago
A Japanese-American figure skater achieved prominence in the sport with a successful career in singles competition. Competed in multiple national and international events, including the Winter Olympics and World Championships. Won a bronze medal as part of the team event at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, marking a significant accomplishment in the athlete's career. Recognized for becoming the first American woman to land a triple axel at the Olympic Games during the team event.
Continue ReadingNolan Arenado
Professional baseball player, 5-time All-Star
Born
April 16th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional baseball player primarily at third base, played for the Colorado Rockies and St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved multiple Gold Glove Awards and was recognized for outstanding offensive and defensive performance throughout the career. Notable for significant contributions to the Rockies, including participation in postseason games and consistent high batting averages.
Continue ReadingWilbur Wright
Aviation pioneer and inventor
Born
April 16th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1912 113 years ago — 45 years old
An American inventor and aviation pioneer contributed significantly to the development of the airplane. Along with his brother, designed and built the first successful powered aircraft. The Wright Flyer achieved the first powered flight on December 17, 1903, in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in aviation history and paved the way for the future of air travel. Established the Wright Company to manufacture airplanes after the early success.
Continue Reading