W. D. Snodgrass
American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born in 1926, this poet gained recognition for personal and confessional poetry. The collection 'Heart's Needle' won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1960, highlighting themes of loss and memory. Contributions to the field included numerous publications in various literary magazines, as well as participation in academia as a teacher. Influence extended to the next generation of poets through workshops and mentorship.
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1960
Published 'Heart's Needle'
Contributed to various literary magazines
Other People Born on January 5th
Danny Jackson
Baseball player and manager, World Series champion
Born
January 5th, 1962 63 years ago
Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher from 1986 to 1999, representing teams such as the Kansas City Royals, Cincinnati Reds, and Philadelphia Phillies. Won a World Series championship with the Cincinnati Reds in 1990. Transitioned to managing after retirement, contributing to the development of players and strategic play within organizations. Involved in coaching roles at various levels, sharing expertise in baseball operations.
Continue ReadingShah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 359 years ago — 74 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Continue ReadingMiklós Zrínyi
Croatian military commander and poet
Born
January 5th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1664 361 years ago — 44 years old
Born in 1620, a prominent military commander in the Habsburg Empire and a member of the Zrínyi family. Fought against the Ottoman Empire during the Long Turkish War. Led significant military campaigns, contributing to the defense of the empire's territories. Also achieved recognition as a poet, with works that expressed themes of heroism and patriotism. Died in 1664 during a military engagement against the Ottomans.
Continue ReadingYves Tanguy
Surrealist painter, 'Indefinite Divisibility'
Born
January 5th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1955 70 years ago — 55 years old
Born in France, developed an interest in painting at an early age. Relocated to the United States in 1939, where involvement in the Surrealist movement flourished. Tanguy's works feature abstract landscapes filled with unique organic forms and dreamlike imagery. His notable techniques involved intricate brushwork and a distinct color palette. Throughout his career, exhibited widely in both Europe and America. His painting 'Indefinite Divisibility' became emblematic of his artistic style, showcasing his contributions to Surrealism. Helped define the aesthetic of the movement and influenced future generations of artists until his death in 1955.
Continue ReadingBradley Cooper
Actor and producer, director of A Star is Born
Born
January 5th, 1975 50 years ago
Born in 1975, this individual pursued a career in acting and gained recognition for roles in various films. Achievements include starring in 'Silver Linings Playbook,' which secured an Academy Award nomination. Directed and starred in 'A Star is Born,' earning critical acclaim and further award nominations. Other notable works include roles in 'American Sniper' and 'Guardians of the Galaxy.' Has received multiple nominations and awards throughout the career.
Continue ReadingXu Xiake
Chinese geographer and explorer
Born
January 5th, 1587 438 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1641 384 years ago — 54 years old
An influential figure in Chinese geography, this individual contributed greatly to the field through extensive travel and exploration. Mapping various regions across China, documented topography, geology, and the environment. The writings included detailed accounts of landscapes and cultural observations, forming a significant part of geographical knowledge in China. Work focused on the provinces including Yunnan and Sichuan, which presented valuable insights into the natural features and ethnic cultures of these areas. Writings were published and disseminated, serving as a reference for future explorations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 13th
Patrick McGoohan
Actor, director of 'The Prisoner'
Born
March 19th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2009 16 years ago — 80 years old
An Irish-American actor, director, and producer gained prominence for the creation and portrayal of the lead character in the television series 'The Prisoner'. The series, which aired from 1967 to 1968, explored themes of individuality and freedom. In 1962, starred in the espionage series 'Danger Man', which contributed to a significant television career. McGoohan received two Primetime Emmy Awards for his performances, solidifying his reputation in the television industry. Later works included appearances in films such as 'Ice Station Zebra' and 'Braveheart'. McGoohan's unique approach to storytelling and character development left a lasting legacy in the genre of psychological drama.
Continue ReadingJitō
Japanese empress during the Asuka period
Died
January 13th, 703 1322 years ago — None years old
Reigned as empress from 686 to 697, during the Asuka period in Japan. Oversaw significant political developments and promoted the implementation of the ritsuryō code, which laid the foundation for a centralized feudal system. Actively supported Buddhism and various temple constructions, contributing to its establishment as a dominant religion in Japan. Governed a time marked by relative peace and stability, facilitating the growth of the imperial court and bureaucracy.
Continue ReadingSylvanus Olympio
President of Togo
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1963 62 years ago — 61 years old
A Togolese businessman and politician, served as the first President of Togo from 1960 until his assassination in 1963. Olympio was instrumental in leading Togo to independence from French colonial rule. His administration focused on economic development and infrastructural modernization.
Continue ReadingSolomon Bundy
American lawyer and politician
Born
1823 202 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1889 136 years ago — 66 years old
Practiced law in the state of New York, focusing on various legal matters. Served as a member of the New York State Assembly in the 1850s. Held the position of Commissioner of Taxes and Assessments for New York City, overseeing the city's financial assessments. Represented the Republican Party and engaged in political activities throughout the 19th century. Advocated for various reforms during his career in public service and law.
Continue ReadingJan Brueghel the Elder
Flemish painter of detailed landscapes
Born
1568 457 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1625 400 years ago — 57 years old
This artist specialized in the painting of landscapes, genre scenes, and allegorical works during the late Renaissance period. Active in Antwerp, notable for collaboration with prominent contemporaries such as Peter Paul Rubens. Created remarkable still lifes, particularly floral arrangements, that displayed intricate detail and vibrancy. Contributed significantly to the genre of landscape painting, influencing future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingAlexandre Ribot
French Prime Minister and politician
Born
February 6th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1923 102 years ago — 80 years old
Served as Prime Minister of France on multiple occasions and was active in French politics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Contributed to various government reforms and policies during his terms. Also held significant positions within the French government, influencing national policies and political strategies.
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