Waldo Williams

Welsh poet and academic

Waldo Williams - Artists & Creatives born September 30th, 1904
Born
Died
Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Wales

Links & References

A Welsh poet and academic, contributions to literature include a strong emphasis on national identity and the Welsh language. Worked as a teacher and engaged in various educational pursuits throughout life. Significant works include the Welsh-language poem 'Y Gyffes', which reflects deep cultural sentiments. Advocated for the preservation of the Welsh language and culture, influencing generations of poets and writers.

Published the acclaimed Welsh poem 'Y Gyffes'

Contributed to the Welsh literary movement

Held academic positions focusing on Welsh literature

Other People Born on September 30th

Buddy Rich

American drummer and bandleader
Born
September 30th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1987 39 years ago — 69 years old

A celebrated drummer and bandleader, this musician gained recognition for exceptional technical skill and virtuosity. Rose to prominence in the 1940s, performing with orchestras led by notable figures such as Tommy Dorsey and Artie Shaw. Established a successful solo career, leading big bands and recording extensively. His style, characterized by speed and precision, influenced generations of drummers. Frequent television appearances and legendary performances showcased talent and charisma. Maintained a rigorous touring schedule and left behind a significant musical legacy.

Continue Reading

Thomas W. Lamont

American banker and philanthropist
Born
September 30th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1948 78 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent banker and philanthropist, played a crucial role at J.P. Morgan & Co. during the early 20th century. Contributed to major financial transactions and policy decisions, especially during the World War I era. Actively involved in international finance and economic development, aiding in the reconstruction of Europe post-war. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, supporting education and the arts, along with significant contributions to the American Red Cross and other charitable organizations.

Continue Reading

Eric Piatkowski

Basketball player, Chicago Bulls
Born
September 30th, 1970 55 years ago

Played professional basketball in the NBA from 1994 to 2005. Spent significant time with the Chicago Bulls and the San Antonio Spurs. Contributed to teams known for their competitiveness during the 1990s. Known for his shooting ability and versatility on the court.

Continue Reading

Jimmy Johnstone

Scottish footballer and Celtic legend
Born
September 30th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
March 13th, 2006 20 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent Scottish footballer played for Celtic from 1961 to 1975. During his time with the team, became a key figure in the club's history, contributing to multiple domestic and European successes. Johnstone was known for exceptional dribbling skills and creativity on the field. He played an integral role in Celtic's triumph in the 1967 European Cup, helping the team to become the first British club to win the title. Following his successful career at Celtic, he also played for the San Jose Earthquakes in the North American Soccer League. Johnstone's legacy in Scottish football remains influential, celebrated by fans for his dedication and talent.

Continue Reading

Lewis Milestone

Film director of All Quiet on the Western Front
Born
September 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Moldova and later becoming a naturalized American citizen, directed several acclaimed films. Achievements included winning an Academy Award for Best Director in 1930 for the film All Quiet on the Western Front, an adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque's novel. The film depicted the grim realities of World War I and received critical praise for its portrayal of the horrors of war. Directed other notable works, including The Front Page and Of Mice and Men, further establishing a successful career in the film industry during the early to mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Elie Wiesel

Holocaust survivor and human rights activist
Born
September 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 10 years ago — 87 years old

Survived the Holocaust and documented the experience in literature. Authored the memoir 'Night', which recounts experiences in Nazi concentration camps. Became a prominent advocate for human rights and spoke out against oppression worldwide. Founded the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity, focusing on education and promoting understanding between people.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 20th

Damaskinos of Athens

Greek Archbishop and ecclesiastical leader
Born
March 3rd, 1891 135 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1949 77 years ago — 58 years old

Occupied the position of Archbishop of Athens from 1938 to 1941 and again from 1944 to 1949. Played a significant role in religious and political life in Greece during turbulent times, including World War II. Led efforts to protect Jewish citizens during the Nazi occupation of Greece. Contributed to the restoration of the Orthodox Church after the war, emphasizing educational and social initiatives.

Continue Reading

Columba of Rieti

Italian Dominican sister and mystic
Born
February 2nd, 1467 559 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1501 525 years ago — 34 years old

Born in Italy in 1467, a Dominican sister focused on a spiritual life marked by mysticism and religious devotion. Primarily associated with the convent of Santa Maria in Rieti, played a significant role in the spiritual lives of her community and visitors. Engaged in contemplative prayer and served as a spiritual advisor, guiding others in their faith. Died in 1501, leaving behind a legacy of religious commitment.

Continue Reading

Władysław IV Vasa

King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania
Born
June 9th, 1595 431 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1648 378 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1595, this monarch reigned over the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth from 1632 until 1648. His rule focused on strengthening the military and pursuing foreign alliances. Significant efforts were made to modernize the naval fleet and expand trade. Under his leadership, the Commonwealth engaged in the wars against Sweden and Russia, navigating complicated political landscapes. He sought to stabilize the internal politics of the Commonwealth and was involved in various diplomatic negotiations, especially with the Habsburgs and the Ottoman Empire.

Continue Reading

Philipp Lenard

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in Physics
Born
June 7th, 1862 164 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1947 79 years ago — 84 years old

A Slovak-German physicist contributed significantly to the field of physics with a focus on cathode rays. Conducted important experiments and formulated theories on the properties of electrons and their behavior in various mediums. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1905 for work on cathode rays and their application in demonstrating the existence of subatomic particles. Held academic positions at various institutions and influenced the trajectory of experimental physics during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Jacob Ellehammer

Danish mechanic and engineer
Born
June 14th, 1871 155 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1946 80 years ago — 74 years old

An engineer and mechanic, contributions centered around aeronautical design. Designed and constructed early aircraft, including a pioneering monoplane and a unique glider. Established significant advancements in aviation and received recognition for innovative engineering approaches.

Continue Reading

Jean-Pierre Rampal

Flute player and classical musician
Born
January 7th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
May 20th, 2000 26 years ago — 78 years old

Renowned for contributions to the classical music scene, distinguished in the field of flute performance. Achieved a celebrated career by collaborating with various orchestras and artists worldwide. Rampal recorded over 100 albums and expanded the solo flute repertoire through innovative arrangements and compositions. Known for pioneering the flute as a solo instrument in concert settings and increasing its popularity in classical music circles.

Continue Reading