Vitomil Zupan
Slovene author, poet, and playwright
Born in Slovenia in 1914, contributed significantly to Slovenian literature. Wrote novels, essays, and plays, with a distinctive narrative voice. Explored themes of identity, society, and human experience through literary works. Gained recognition for blending realism and existentialism in writing. Worked as a playwright for various theatrical productions, leaving a lasting influence on Slovenian theater.
Wrote the novel 'The Silent Man'
Authored the play 'The Scorpion'
Contributed essays to major literary journals
Other People Born on January 18th
Pratap Singh Bhosle
Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire
Born
January 18th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
1847 178 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1793, ruled as Chhatrapati from 1818 to 1839. Oversaw the decline of the Maratha Empire while managing internal and external pressures. Worked towards administrative consolidation and military reforms. Established policies aimed at economic development and stability.
Continue ReadingKenneth E. Boulding
Economist and academic with a focus on peace
Born
January 18th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1993 32 years ago — 83 years old
An English economist and academic, contributed extensively to the fields of economics, systems theory, and peace studies. Developed the concept of 'image' in economics, emphasizing the importance of perception and expectations in economic behavior. Served as a professor at various institutions, notably the University of Colorado. Founded the Institute of Behavioral Science and was involved in numerous academic organizations, promoting interdisciplinary research.
Continue ReadingThomas A. Watson
Assistant to Alexander Graham Bell
Born
January 18th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 80 years old
Assisted Alexander Graham Bell in his experiments with the electric telephone. Contributed to the first successful voice transmission on March 10, 1876, when Bell famously said, 'Mr. Watson, come here; I want to see you'. Worked with Bell in developing various telecommunication devices, becoming a key figure in early telephone history. Later involved in the establishment of the Bell Telephone Company, which played a vital role in the expansion of telephone service across the United States.
Continue ReadingSam Zemurray
Businessman, founder of Cuyamel Fruit Co.
Born
January 18th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1877, a Russian-American businessman established the Cuyamel Fruit Company in Central America, primarily in Honduras. Focused on banana production, the company became a major player in the banana trade during the early 20th century. Involved in the politics of banana exporting, engaged in negotiations that influenced local governments and economies. Contributed to the development of the United Fruit Company through various partnerships and acquisitions. Actively participated in industry discussions around agricultural practices and trade.
Continue ReadingIsabella Jagiellon
Queen of Hungary
Born
January 18th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1559 466 years ago — 40 years old
Born into the Jagiellon dynasty, this individual became queen consort of Hungary through marriage to King John Zápolya. The reign included a turbulent political landscape marked by conflicts with the Habsburgs and internal strife. Extensive influence was exerted on royal affairs and governance during the turbulent period following her husband's death. A strong supporter of her son's claim to the throne, she played a significant role in securing his position. Her reign was characterized by efforts to stabilize the region amid external threats.
Continue ReadingGerrit Voorting
Dutch cyclist, road racing champion
Born
January 18th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
Competed in road cycling events during the mid-20th century. Achieved notable success in national and international competitions. Secured the title of national road champion in the Netherlands multiple times. Participated in prestigious races including the Tour de France, contributing to the sport's popularity in the region.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
Walter Rauff
German SS officer involved in wartime actions
Born
June 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1984 41 years ago — 77 years old
Served as an SS officer during World War II, holding various positions within the Nazi regime. Played a significant role in the implementation of deportation and extermination policies. Involved in the development of mobile gas vans used for mass executions, contributing to the atrocities of the Holocaust. After the war, fled Europe and lived in South America, where he continued to evade justice until his death.
Continue ReadingWalcher
Bishop of Durham in medieval England
Died
May 14th, 1080 945 years ago — None years old
Served as Bishop of Durham from 1071 until death in 1080. Oversaw the spiritual and administrative matters of his diocese during a period of significant political upheaval in England. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Norman Church in the north of England. Worked to integrate Norman and Anglo-Saxon communities through ecclesiastical reforms.
Continue ReadingLudwig Bechstein
German author and fairy tale collector
Born
November 24th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1860 165 years ago — 58 years old
Active in the 19th century, contributed significantly to German literature. Best recognized for a collection of folk and fairy tales titled 'Deutsches Märchenbuch', which offered a rich compilation of traditional stories. The author also produced works that included poetry and novels, reflecting the cultural milieu of the era. His writing often drew upon themes of folklore and the human experience, aiming to preserve and celebrate German heritage through literature.
Continue ReadingŌkubo Toshimichi
Japanese samurai and politician
Born
1830 195 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1878 147 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent samurai and politician during the Meiji Restoration, played a key role in the establishment of modern Japan. Served as a member of the first cabinet and held multiple ministerial positions, including Minister of Finance. Contributed to extensive reforms in Japanese society and government, focusing on modernization and Westernization. Involved in the unification of Japan's political structure and supported the abolition of the feudal system. Played a significant part in promoting industry and education.
Continue ReadingAugust Strindberg
Swedish playwright and novelist
Born
January 22nd, 1849 176 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1912 113 years ago — 63 years old
A prolific writer in various genres, focused on themes of psychology and existentialism. Authored the influential plays 'Miss Julie' and 'The Father', which explored complex human relationships and societal issues. Wrote novels such as 'The Red Room' and 'A Ghost Sonata', reflecting the social conditions of the time. His work contributed significantly to the development of modernist literature and drama, influencing many writers and playwrights in subsequent generations.
Continue ReadingStanley Kunitz
American poet and translator awarded Pulitzer
Born
July 29th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
May 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 100 years old
Born in 1905, this individual became a prominent figure in American literature as a poet and translator. Celebrated for his eloquent style and exploration of themes such as nature and identity, this individual published numerous collections, starting with 'Intensities' in 1930. In 1959, received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for 'The Testing-Tree.' Served as the Poet Laureate of the United States in 1976 and held a long tenure and influential role at Boston University. His work remains significant in the landscape of American poetry, influencing future generations of poets.
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