Wallace Thurman
American author and playwright of Harlem Renaissance
Born
Died
1934
91 years ago — 32 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An influential figure of the Harlem Renaissance, this individual contributed significantly to American literature and theater. Born in 1902, worked as an author and playwright, exploring themes of race, identity, and culture. His works often illustrated the struggles and complexities of African American life during the early 20th century. Authored several novels, essays, and plays, capturing the vibrant culture and challenges of the time. Established a reputation as an editor and wrote for various publications, promoting the voices of his contemporaries.
Authored the novel 'The Blacker the Berry'
Wrote the play 'In the Dark'
Co-founded the literary magazine 'Fire!!'
Other People Born on August 16th
Elsie Inglis
Scottish surgeon and suffragette
Born
August 16th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1917 108 years ago — 53 years old
A surgeon and suffragette contributed significantly to women's medical education and military healthcare during World War I. Founded the Scottish Women's Hospitals for Foreign Service and established mobile medical units in various countries. Advocated for women's rights in the medical field, working tirelessly to ensure women could receive both medical training and recognition as professionals. Provided medical care to soldiers in the field, enhancing the role of women in medicine.
Continue ReadingHugo Gernsback
Science fiction author and publisher
Born
August 16th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1967 58 years ago — 83 years old
An author and publisher from Luxembourg, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. Founded the magazine 'Amazing Stories' in 1926, which marked the beginning of modern science fiction as a recognized literary genre. Invented several electronics and radio-related devices and held multiple patents. His efforts in promoting science fiction led to the establishment of the Hugo Awards, named in his honor, which recognize excellence in the genre.
Continue ReadingCharles Bukowski
American poet and novelist with dirty realism
Born
August 16th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1994 31 years ago — 73 years old
An influential poet and novelist focused on the lives of the downtrodden in American society. Often writing in a raw, unapologetic style, his works explored themes of love, alcoholism, and the struggles of everyday life. Major works include the novels 'Post Office' and 'Women' and the poetry collections 'Love is a Dog From Hell' and 'The Last Night of the Earth Poems.' Bukowski's writing often drew from personal experiences, reflecting the gritty realities of urban living.
Continue ReadingOtto Messmer
Animator and screenwriter for Felix the Cat
Born
August 16th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1983 42 years ago — 91 years old
An American animator and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the animated film industry during the silent film era. Created the iconic character Felix the Cat, who became one of the first cartoon stars to gain widespread popularity. Developed Felix's character, short films, and comic strips that entertained audiences in the 1920s. Worked for Pat Sullivan Studios, producing numerous Felix the Cat cartoons that featured innovative animation techniques.
Continue ReadingJohn Bosco
Italian priest and educator, founder of the Salesians
Born
August 16th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1888 137 years ago — 72 years old
A priest and educator dedicated to the welfare of youth, established the Salesian Society to provide education and spiritual guidance. Focused on the disadvantaged, advocated for preventive education emphasizing reason, religion, and loving-kindness as a framework for teaching. Significant contributions to church and education, influencing modern pedagogical methods.
Continue ReadingWolfgang Tillmans
German photographer notable for exhibitions
Born
August 16th, 1968 57 years ago
A German photographer engaged with various forms of photography, prominently exhibited works in many international galleries. Gained recognition for distinct approaches to photography, blending abstraction with documentary. Received the Turner Prize in 2000, marking a significant achievement within the contemporary art world. Explored themes of identity, social issues, and cultural observations, utilizing both large-scale installations and intimate, smaller pieces.
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