W. G. Sebald

Novelist known for 'The Emigrants'

W. G. Sebald - Novelist known for 'The Emigrants'
Born

May 18th, 1944
81 years ago

Died

December 14th, 2001
23 years ago — 57 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

An influential writer, focused on themes of memory, exile, and the impact of history. Worked primarily in German and was awarded several literary prizes. Utilized a unique narrative style, blending fiction with essays and photographs. Spent a significant part of his life in England, where he taught and published extensively. 'The Emigrants', a seminal work, explored the lives of displaced individuals and their ties to the past. Other notable works include 'Austerlitz' and 'Vertigo', which delve into similar themes.

Published 'The Emigrants' in 1993

Authored 'Austerlitz', exploring memory and identity

Received the Independent Foreign Fiction Prize

Other People Born on May 18th

Ray Nagel

American football player and coach
Born
May 18th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old

Played football at the University of Iowa and served as a quarterback before entering the coaching profession. Coached teams including the University of Utah and the University of Hawaii. Held a position as head coach at the University of Hawaii from 1970 to 1972. Contributed to player development and team strategies throughout coaching career.

Continue Reading

Priscilla Pointer

American actress in television and film
Born
May 18th, 1924 101 years ago

An actress with a career spanning several decades, she achieved recognition for roles in television and film. Early performances included appearances in classic series and movies. Voiced various characters in animated productions, showcasing versatility and talent. In addition to acting, she contributed to theater and taught drama.

Continue Reading

Roger Joseph Boscovich

Physicist and philosopher of science
Born
May 18th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1787 238 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of physics, astronomy, and mathematics during the 18th century. Developed a coherent atomic theory integrating various scientific disciplines. Formulated Boscovich's theory of forces, which described the interactions between particles. Engaged in extensive work on celestial mechanics and was involved in the construction of the first observatory in Croatia. Also contributed to the study of the Earth's curvature and geodesy. Authored numerous works that combined philosophy and science, leaving a legacy in both disciplines.

Continue Reading

Jeanie MacPherson

American actress and screenwriter
Born
May 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old

An actress and screenwriter contributed to the early film industry. Active in the 1910s and 1920s, she appeared in and wrote for silent films. Collaborated with prominent directors and actors of the era, shaping the narrative structure of early cinema. MacPherson’s work displayed a strong understanding of storytelling and character development. Most noted for writing the screenplay for the classic film 'The Sheik', which starred Rudolph Valentino, a significant film of its time that contributed to the popularity of romantic adventure stories in cinema. Also performed in numerous silent films, establishing a career that spanned both acting and writing.

Continue Reading

Ingvild Kjerkol

Norwegian politician and national leader
Born
May 18th, 1975 50 years ago

A Norwegian politician served as Minister of Health and Care Services from 2021. Active in national politics since 2005, held positions within the Norwegian Labour Party and was elected to the Norwegian Parliament in 2017. Kjerkol focused on health policy and care services, emphasizing accessibility and quality of medical care in Norway. Involved in several local political initiatives prior to national service.

Continue Reading

Vince Young

American football quarterback, 2006 Rose Bowl MVP
Born
May 18th, 1983 42 years ago

A quarterback played college football at the University of Texas, where led the team to a national championship in 2005, earning the 2006 Rose Bowl MVP title. Transitioning to the NFL, played for the Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans, Philadelphia Eagles, and Green Bay Packers. Received NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2006. Achieved three Pro Bowl selections during NFL career. After retirement, engaged in community service and youth mentorship.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 14th

Paulo Evaristo Arns

Brazilian cardinal and activist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2016 8 years ago — 95 years old

Served as the Archbishop of São Paulo from 1970 to 1998. Played a significant role in advocating for human rights during the military dictatorship in Brazil. Promoted social justice and worked to improve the conditions of the poor and marginalized. Contributed to the development of liberation theology, emphasizing the need for the church to address social issues. Actively participated in public debates on religious and political matters, gaining prominence for work in pastoral care and social activism.

Continue Reading

Norman Fell

Television actor from Three's Company
Born
March 24th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1998 26 years ago — 74 years old

An American actor gained recognition for roles in television and film. Famous for portraying Mr. Roper in the sitcom Three's Company, a role that showcased comedic talent. Appeared in numerous guest spots on various television series throughout a lengthy career. Starred in films such as The Graduate and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Continue Reading

Julian Sochocki

Mathematician and academic, developed theories
Born
February 2nd, 1842 183 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1927 97 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1842, this Polish-Russian mathematician made significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in theory development. His academic career was marked by work at various institutions where he focused on advancing mathematical knowledge. His research influenced subsequent generations of mathematicians and contributed to the establishment of several mathematical principles still studied today.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Dürrenmatt

Swiss author and playwright
Born
January 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1990 34 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent Swiss author and playwright, recognized for contributions to literature and theater. Works often reflected on themes of justice, societal norms, and existentialism. Achieved international acclaim with major plays such as 'The Visit' and 'The Physicists', which critiqued ethical dilemmas and human behavior. Also authored novels, including 'The Pledge', exploring crime and morality. Developed a unique style that merged comic elements with tragic themes, influencing modern theater.

Continue Reading

Charles III of Spain

King of Spain and influential monarch
Born
January 20th, 1716 309 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1788 236 years ago — 72 years old

Ruled as King of Spain from 1759 until death in 1788. Charles III implemented extensive reforms to modernize Spain, enhancing the economy and administrative efficiency. His reign is marked by significant cultural developments, including patronage of the arts and architecture. Established the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando and promoted science, education, and public works. Efforts towards secularization and a focus on the Enlightenment ideals defined his leadership.

Continue Reading

Billie Jo Spears

Country singer with hit songs
Born
January 14th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2011 13 years ago — 74 years old

An American country singer emerged in the 1960s, gaining popularity with distinctive vocal style and engaging performances. Released several albums throughout career, with notable songs such as "Blanket on the Ground" and "What I've Got in Mind." Achieved commercial success on the country music charts, receiving recognition for contributions to the genre. Played a significant role in popularizing country music during her peak years, earning a reputation as a prominent figure in the industry.

Continue Reading