Vladimir Nabokov
Novelist and literary critic, author of Lolita
Born in Russia, a prolific novelist and literary critic contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Immigrated to the United States, where many major works were completed. Explored themes of obsession, memory, and the relationship between reality and art. Utilized a distinctive style characterized by wordplay, intricate plots, and vivid imagery. Renowned for fluency in both English and Russian, produced works that bridged cultural boundaries. Taught literature at several universities and engaged in entomology as a passionate hobby.
Authored 'Lolita', published in 1955
Wrote 'Pale Fire', published in 1962
Published 'Speak, Memory', an autobiographical work in 1951
Other People Born on April 22nd
Otto Rank
Psychologist and author of 'The Trauma of Birth'
Born
April 22nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1939 86 years ago — 55 years old
Austrian-American psychologist focused on psychoanalytic theory and the psychological significance of birth. Rank studied under Sigmund Freud and contributed to the field with innovative concepts, emphasizing the impact of early experiences on personality development. His major work, 'The Trauma of Birth', explored the psychological implications of birth and its aftermath, reshaping ideas about the origins of anxiety and neurosis. Rank also played a crucial role in the founding of the New School for Social Research in New York, where he taught and influenced many students in psychology and the humanities. Later in his career, he diverged from traditional psychoanalytic views and developed his theories on creativity and art.
Continue ReadingDemetrio Stratos
Singer-songwriter and vocal innovator
Born
April 22nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1979 46 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1945, this Greek-Egyptian singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the music scene with a unique vocal technique and innovative compositions. Active primarily in the 1970s, this artist gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Apocalypsis. Known for a distinctive ability to manipulate voice and sound, he became an influential figure in avant-garde and progressive music. In addition to music, engaged in various artistic collaborations and cultural projects that showcased his multifaceted talents. The artist's work has had a lasting influence on contemporary music, cementing a legacy within both Greek and international music circles.
Continue ReadingCarl Lindner Jr.
Businessman and philanthropist
Born
April 22nd, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent American businessman and philanthropist, built a successful career in the food industry. Founded American Financial Group and served as its chairman. Developed and expanded the family-owned Cincinnati-based company, which included the operation of a large dairy business. Contributed to various philanthropic efforts in Cincinnati and beyond, particularly in education and the arts. Made significant donations to universities and cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingJason Miller
American actor and playwright
Born
April 22nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2001 24 years ago — 62 years old
Played Father Karras in 'The Exorcist' and won a Tony Award for playwriting for 'That Championship Season'. Worked as a director and educator, contributing to theater through teaching and performance. Involved in various productions, both on stage and in film, shaping the landscape of American theater during the 20th century.
Continue ReadingPierre Hétu
Canadian pianist and conductor
Born
April 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1998 27 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent pianist and conductor, contributions spanned performances and recordings in Canada and internationally. Held significant roles with various orchestras and ensembles, showcasing a blend of classical and contemporary music. Worked with notable organizations such as the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal and led performances worldwide, making a mark in the classical music scene.
Continue ReadingBettie Page
Model and actress in pin-up culture
Born
April 22nd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old
Bettie Page gained prominence during the 1950s as a pin-up model and actress. She became an icon of sexuality and glamour, often recognized for her distinctive black hair and trademark bangs. Featured in various magazines, she was a leading figure in the erotic photography genre, which contributed to the cultural landscape of that era. Her work included modeling for photographer Bunny Yeager, and she also appeared in an array of short films. After retiring from modeling in the late 1950s, she led a private life for several decades, only to resurface in popular culture during the 1980s. The resurgence in interest helped establish her as a significant figure in modeling and pop culture history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 2nd
Lee Remick
American actress, starred in Days of Wine and Roses
Born
December 14th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1991 34 years ago — 55 years old
An acclaimed actress, this individual gained recognition for roles in film and television. Early performances included work in theater productions before transitioning to film. Major roles included Sandy in 'Days of Wine and Roses' and the lead in 'The Omen'. Throughout a successful career, received several award nominations, including Academy Award and Emmy Award nominations. Contributions to both film and television showcased range and depth of talent.
Continue ReadingDouglas Engelbart
Computer Scientist, Inventor of the Mouse
Born
January 30th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
A pioneer in computer science, contributed significantly to the development of human-computer interaction. Innovated the computer mouse, which became a central component of personal computing. Engaged in early work on collaborative software and graphical user interfaces. Founded the Augment Corporation to further research in computer augmentation of human intellect.
Continue ReadingAlan Longmuir
Scottish bass player and songwriter
Born
June 20th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2018 7 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent bass player and songwriter contributed significantly to the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s. Co-founded the band Bay City Rollers, which gained immense popularity with their upbeat pop sound and catchy melodies. The group achieved multiple chart-topping hits across the globe, with a notable presence in the UK and the US. Longmuir's musical talents and contributions were integral to the band's success during its heyday, including several albums that charted well.
Continue ReadingJoey Dunlop
Northern Irish motorcycle racer and champion
Born
February 25th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2000 25 years ago — 48 years old
Renowned as a motorcycle racer, achieved acclaim primarily through success at the Isle of Man TT races. Competed in and won the TT races 26 times, establishing a remarkable record. Secured multiple championships in various motorcycle racing events throughout Europe. In addition to racing, contributed significantly to charity work in his community and provided support for children in need. Recognized for his dedication both on and off the racetrack.
Continue ReadingAlicia Patterson
Publisher, co-founder of Newsday
Born
1906 120 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1963 62 years ago — 57 years old
Alicia Patterson established a significant presence in American journalism by co-founding the Long Island newspaper Newsday. Under her guidance, Newsday became recognized for its in-depth reporting and coverage of local issues. She played a crucial role in promoting investigative journalism and fostering a commitment to journalistic excellence. Her contributions to the newspaper industry significantly influenced the landscape of local news coverage.
Continue ReadingÁngela Jeria
Chilean archaeologist and cultural researcher
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of Chilean archaeology, focusing on pre-Columbian cultures and their impact on society. Conducted extensive research on the Mapuche and Atacameño cultures. Engaged in numerous excavations, uncovering artifacts that provided insights into the historical development of human settlements in Chile. Worked as a professor, sharing knowledge and mentoring future archaeologists.
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