Tristan Tzara
Dadaist poet and critic
Born in Romania and later moving to France, a leading figure in the Dada movement, which challenged established artistic norms. Contributed to the manifestos of Dada and developed concepts of chance and spontaneity in art and poetry. Also engaged in political activism and contributed to discussions around surrealism and modernism. The influence on avant-garde literature and visual arts remains significant.
Co-founded the Dada movement in Zurich
Authored 'The Gas Heart'
Developed the cut-up technique in poetry
Other People Born on April 28th
Tobias Asser
Nobel Prize-winning lawyer and scholar
Born
April 28th, 1838 188 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1913 112 years ago — 75 years old
A lawyer and scholar specialized in international law and arbitration. Played a significant role in the formation of international legal standards. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1911 for contributions to the peaceful resolution of international disputes. Advocated for the establishment of the Hague Conference and promoted arbitration as a means to resolve conflicts. Engaged in various legal reform efforts throughout his career.
Continue ReadingHertha Marks Ayrton
Engineer and physicist, first woman member of the IEE
Born
April 28th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
1923 103 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1854, engaged in engineering, mathematics, and physics. Became the first woman to present a paper to the Institution of Electrical Engineers in 1899. Recognized for contributions to the study of electric arcs and alternating currents. Pioneered research that resulted in notable advances in electrical engineering. Received the Hughes Medal from the Royal Society in 1899 for work on electrical phenomena. Actively involved in the women's suffrage movement and advocated for women's education in engineering and the sciences.
Continue ReadingMadge Sinclair
Jamaican-American actress in film and TV
Born
April 28th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Jamaica, an actress made a significant mark in film and television. Moved to the United States to pursue acting and became a prominent figure in various productions. Starred in the classic film 'Coming to America' alongside Eddie Murphy, as well as in the television series 'Roots' which highlighted the historical struggles of enslaved African Americans. Recognized for powerful performances that brought depth to her roles, she became one of the first Black actresses to hold leading roles in mainstream media.
Continue ReadingRoberto Bolaño
Chilean novelist and poet
Born
April 28th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2003 22 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent figure in contemporary literature, this novelist, short-story writer, poet, and essayist produced a significant body of work that gained international recognition. Born in Chile, he spent much of his life in Mexico and later moved to Spain. His notable works include 'The Savage Detectives' and '2666', which both received critical acclaim and contributed to his reputation as an influential voice in literature. His writing often explored themes of exile, violence, and the complexities of the human experience. Bolaño received several awards posthumously, including the Neustadt International Prize for Literature.
Continue ReadingSimin Daneshvar
Iranian author and academic with 'Savushun'
Born
April 28th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
March 8th, 2012 14 years ago — 90 years old
An Iranian author and academic, contributed significantly to Persian literature and cultural discourse. Authored 'Savushun', a celebrated novel depicting the struggles of a woman during the political upheaval in Iran. Engaged in various literary and academic activities, focusing on the representation of women in literature. Also served as an editor for various literary journals, enhancing the visibility of contemporary Iranian literature on both national and international stages.
Continue ReadingTerry Pratchett
Author of Discworld series
Born
April 28th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2015 11 years ago — 66 years old
An English author and journalist, created a vast and satirical fantasy universe through the Discworld series, which spans over 40 novels. These works blend humor, social commentary, and fantasy elements, gaining a significant following. Also wrote several novels outside the Discworld universe, including 'Good Omens' in collaboration with Neil Gaiman. Pratchett received numerous accolades, including the British Fantasy Award and the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 25th
Karl Abraham
German psychoanalyst and author
Born
May 3rd, 1877 149 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1925 100 years ago — 48 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of psychoanalysis, focusing on the relationship between dreams and the unconscious mind. Developed theories about the fixation and regression in psychosexual development. Served as a leading figure in the Berlin Psychoanalytic Society. Published various works that expanded on Freudian theories, particularly in connection with the treatment of mental illness.
Continue ReadingZail Singh
Indian politician, 7th President of India
Born
May 5th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1994 31 years ago — 78 years old
Born on May 5, 1916, this individual served as the 7th President of India from 1982 to 1987. Prior to the presidency, held various political roles, including serving as the Chief Minister of Punjab and as the Union Minister for Home Affairs. Partook in significant events in Indian politics during a time of national challenges and changes. Played a key role in the Indian National Congress and contributed to the party's policies and direction during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingGeorge Clayton Johnson
Author and screenwriter of sci-fi classics
Born
July 10th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
An American author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre through literary works and television scripts. Wrote episodes for the original Star Trek series, most notably 'The Man Trap.' Collaborated with other writers to develop short stories and screenplays that shaped television and film. Co-wrote the screenplay for the iconic film 'Logan's Run,' which became a cult classic and received critical acclaim. Engaged in various projects throughout his career, showcasing a creative prowess in the realm of storytelling.
Continue ReadingBilly Martin
Baseball player and manager with Yankees
Born
May 16th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1989 36 years ago — 61 years old
Played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball, primarily with the New York Yankees, and later served as a manager for several teams, including multiple stints with the Yankees. Contributed to five World Series championships as a player with the Yankees from 1949 to 1953. After retiring as a player, shifted to coaching and managerial roles, gaining a reputation for his fiery demeanor and leadership style in the dugout. Also managed the Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, and Oakland Athletics during career in baseball management.
Continue ReadingPedro de Valdivia
Spanish conquistador, founded Santiago
Born
April 17th, 1497 529 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1553 472 years ago — 56 years old
A Spanish conquistador, played a pivotal role in the Spanish conquest of Chile. Arrived in South America in 1535 and explored parts of the continent. In 1541, founded the city of Santiago, which became a major urban center. Faced significant resistance from Indigenous populations but continued to expand Spanish territories in the region. Died in battle against the Mapuche in 1553.
Continue ReadingRobert Walser
Swiss author and playwright
Born
April 15th, 1878 148 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1956 69 years ago — 78 years old
An author and playwright from Switzerland, contributed significantly to the literary world with a unique style characterized by a focus on individual perception and a sense of fragmentation. Writings included the novels 'Jakob von Gunten' and 'The Tenderness of the World', showcasing a distinct narrative voice. Worked as a translator and produced various essays, plays, and prose pieces throughout a prolific career. Spent a significant period in mental health institutions later in life, where creativity continued to flourish despite personal challenges.
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