Voltaire
French writer and philosopher
A prominent figure of the Enlightenment, this individual gained recognition for sharp wit and advocacy of civil liberties. Works include 'Candide' and 'Letters on England.' Contributions to philosophy emphasized freedom of expression and religious tolerance. Spent significant time in exile due to controversial writings. Influenced modern liberal thought through essays and plays. Engaged in correspondence with many Enlightenment thinkers.
Authored 'Candide', a satirical novella
Wrote 'Philosophical Dictionary', exploring ideas
Critiqued societal norms through various plays
Other People Born on November 21st
Brian McNamara
American actor, director, producer
Born
November 21st, 1960 65 years ago
Born in 1960, this American actor has contributed to both television and film. Gained prominence through roles in series such as 'Army Wives' and films including 'Big' and 'The Mighty Ducks'. In addition to acting, also directed episodes of various television shows. Worked in theater early in the career and transitioned to screen roles later.
Continue ReadingFoster Hewitt
Canadian sportscaster and broadcaster
Born
November 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1985 41 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Canadian sportscaster, contributed significantly to the field of sports broadcasting. Pioneered radio and television coverage of hockey in Canada, establishing a dramatic style that captivated audiences. His career spanned several decades, with a focus on hockey commentary that helped to popularize the sport across the nation. Served as the voice of the Toronto Maple Leafs for many years, earning a reputation as a leading figure in sports media. Was inducted into several halls of fame for broadcasting excellence.
Continue ReadingBeryl Bainbridge
English author and screenwriter
Born
November 21st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2010 15 years ago — 77 years old
An English author and screenwriter, produced a substantial body of work, spanning both literature and film. Authored multiple novels, receiving critical acclaim throughout a decades-long career. Works include 'An Awfully Big Adventure,' 'The Birthday Boys,' and 'Every Man for Himself,' which gained recognition for their unique narrative styles and character development. Adapted several of these novels into screenplays, contributing to British cinema.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Wilhelm Marpurg
German composer and music theorist
Born
November 21st, 1718 307 years ago
Died
1795 231 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1718, this German composer and music theorist significantly contributed to the development of music criticism and theory during the 18th century. Marpurg published several important treatises, including 'Abhandlung von der Fugen' and 'Historisch-kritische Einleitung in die Musik'. His work combined theoretical analysis with practical guidance for composers and musicians. He also served as a music critic, engaging with the musical community and influencing the perception of contemporary compositions. In addition to writing, he composed works of music, significantly contributing to the Baroque musical tradition.
Continue ReadingHeidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul
German politician and educator; Minister
Born
November 21st, 1942 83 years ago
An educator and politician served in the German Bundestag for several terms. Held the position of Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development from 1998 to 2009. Focused on international development policies and gender equality during the tenure. Advocated for sustainable development and the integration of human rights in international cooperation efforts.
Continue ReadingPope Benedict XV
Religious leader and Pope during WWI
Born
November 21st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1922 104 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the Pope from 1914 to 1922, facilitating peace efforts during World War I. Advocated for humanitarian relief for war victims and promoted social justice. His papacy focused on addressing the moral and social challenges posed by the conflict, encouraging dialogue between nations. Worked to establish the Vatican as a mediating power in international diplomacy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 30th
Ted Drake
English Footballer and Manager
Born
August 16th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1995 30 years ago — 82 years old
A professional footballer and manager began his career at Arsenal, where he achieved notable success. Drake became one of the leading goal-scorers for Arsenal, contributing significantly to their victories in the 1940s. Following his playing career, he transitioned into management, leading teams in various leagues. His contributions to English football have been recognized for decades.
Continue ReadingJack Twyman
Basketball player and Hall of Famer
Born
May 11th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
A professional basketball player played for the Cincinnati Royals from 1955 to 1966. Excelled as a forward, contributing significantly to the team's success during his tenure. Achieved six NBA All-Star selections and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1983. After retiring from playing, served as a broadcaster and coach. Renowned for his scoring ability and versatility on the court, helping elevate the Royals' competitive status in the league.
Continue ReadingRafael Trujillo
Dominican politician, military leader
Born
October 24th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1961 64 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1891, a soldier and politician ascended to the presidency of the Dominican Republic in 1930, maintaining power until his assassination in 1961. His regime was characterized by a strong military presence and authoritarian governance. Infrastructure projects, such as the construction of the country’s infrastructure and various public buildings, were initiated during his rule. The era was marked by significant human rights abuses and suppression of political dissent.
Continue ReadingRobert Sterling
American actor from 'Topper' series
Born
November 13th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 88 years old
Achieved prominence in the 1950s as a television actor, particularly recognized for starring in the series 'Topper' which aired from 1953 to 1955. Appeared in numerous films during the 1940s and 1950s, including roles in 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir' and 'The Bride Goes Wild'. Sterling’s career spanned over four decades, with appearances in various television shows and movies. His contributions to the television landscape paved the way for future actors in comedy and family-oriented programming. Continued working into the 1970s, demonstrating versatility across genres and performances.
Continue ReadingRosalyn Sussman Yalow
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 19th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2011 14 years ago — 89 years old
Contributions to the field of medical physics included the development of radioimmunoassay, a technique that revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Achievements in academia included serving on the faculty at the City University of New York, where significant research was conducted in the areas of nuclear medicine and endocrinology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1977 for work related to this innovative technique, becoming the second woman to receive this honor in that category. Played a key role in advancing the understanding of hormone levels, particularly insulin, through this method.
Continue ReadingJózsef Klekl
Slovene-Hungarian priest and politician
Born
October 13th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1948 77 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1874, this individual served as a priest within the Slovene-Hungarian community. Active in local politics, played a significant role in promoting the interests of the Slovene minority in Hungary. Advocated for education and cultural preservation among his people, contributing to community development and representation.
Continue Reading