Walter Lord

Historian and author of historical works

Walter Lord - Historian and author of historical works
Born

October 8th, 1917
107 years ago

Died

May 19th, 2002
23 years ago — 84 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American historian and author, contributed significantly to the genre of historical narrative non-fiction. Best recognized for the book 'A Night to Remember', which detailed the sinking of the RMS Titanic, providing a thorough account through survivor testimonies. Authored works on various historical events, emphasizing storytelling and personal experiences to engage readers. Extensive research and writing highlighted the human aspects of historical crises and events.

Wrote 'A Night to Remember' about the Titanic

Authored 'The Dawn's Early Light' on the War of 1812

Other People Born on October 8th

William Swainson

Ornithologist and entomologist
Born
October 8th, 1789 235 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1855 169 years ago — 66 years old

Born in England and later settling in New Zealand, this figure made significant contributions to the fields of ornithology and entomology. Extensive fieldwork in both countries resulted in numerous descriptions of bird species and insects. The works addressed various aspects of the natural history of New Zealand, showcasing its unique avian population. The cataloging and classification work significantly advanced knowledge in these scientific domains.

Continue Reading

Anne-Marie Duff

English actress of 'Shameless' and 'The Last Kingdom'
Born
October 8th, 1970 54 years ago

An accomplished actress from England, recognized for prominent roles in television and film. Gained popularity playing Fiona Gallagher in the television series 'Shameless' from 2004 to 2013. Portrayed the character of Queen Aelswith in 'The Last Kingdom' from 2017 to 2022, showcasing versatility in diverse roles. Also appeared in films such as 'The Last Station' and 'Suffragette', contributing to the arts through performances that resonate with audiences. She has received critical acclaim and various nominations for her work throughout her career, establishing a strong presence in the industry.

Continue Reading

Zog I of Albania

King of Albania and founder of a dynasty
Born
October 8th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1961 64 years ago — 65 years old

Established the Kingdom of Albania in 1928 and reigned until 1939. Implemented various reforms aimed at modernizing the country, including improvements to infrastructure and education. Faced challenges from internal strife and external threats, particularly from Italy. Abandoned the throne in 1939 during the Italian invasion and went into exile. Zog I's reign was marked by attempts to strengthen national identity and maintain independence amidst regional instability.

Continue Reading

The Miz

Professional wrestler and actor
Born
October 8th, 1980 44 years ago

A professional wrestler, actor, and television personality, gained fame in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Initially competed in reality television, showcasing charisma and athleticism. Became known for memorable feuds and championship reigns within WWE, including winning the WWE Championship. Transitioned into acting, appearing in movies such as "The Marine" and various television series. Additionally, serviced as a co-host on shows like "WWE's Tough Enough" and made guest appearances on various entertainment programs.

Continue Reading

Huntley Gordon

Canadian-American actor in silent films
Born
October 8th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1956 68 years ago — 77 years old

Active during the silent film era, this actor appeared in numerous films. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Love Burglar' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'. Transitioned into sound films with notable roles in early talkies. Worked extensively in both Hollywood and Canadian cinema.

Continue Reading

Bruno Mars

Singer-songwriter and music producer
Born
October 8th, 1985 39 years ago

Born in 1985, this American singer-songwriter and producer gained prominence with a blend of pop, rock, R&B, and funk. Released debut album 'Doo-Wops & Hooligans' in 2010, featuring hit single 'Just the Way You Are.' Achieved multiple Grammy Awards and has written for numerous other artists. Formed the duo Silk Sonic with Anderson .Paak, releasing the critically acclaimed album 'An Evening with Silk Sonic' in 2021.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 19th

Kristjan Raud

Estonian painter and illustrator
Born
October 22nd, 1865 159 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1943 82 years ago — 77 years old

Maintained a significant role in Estonian art, focusing on landscape and folk motifs. Contributed illustrations to various publications and created numerous notable artworks reflecting Estonia's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Played a key role in the development of the Estonian National Museum and was involved in art education. Worked on several prominent art exhibitions, showcasing the evolution of Estonian art.

Continue Reading

Ronald Colman

Actor in 'A Tale of Two Cities'
Born
February 9th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1958 67 years ago — 67 years old

Born in England, pursued a career in acting, moving to the United States in the 1910s. Achieved prominence in Hollywood during the 1920s and 1930s, starring in silent films and later transitioning to talkies. Gained acclaim for performances in classic films including 'A Tale of Two Cities', 'The Prisoner of Zenda', and 'Random Harvest'. Won an Academy Award for Best Actor for 'A Double Life' in 1948, solidifying a legacy in film history.

Continue Reading

Morley Safer

Journalist and author of '60 Minutes'
Born
November 8th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Canada and later a naturalized citizen of the United States, this journalist became a prominent figure in broadcast journalism. He began working for CBS News in the 1960s and contributed significantly to the news magazine program '60 Minutes'. His investigative reporting often focused on political and social issues, earning accolades and recognition in the field of journalism. The use of compelling storytelling techniques and candid interviews characterized his work, making significant contributions to the medium.

Continue Reading

Albert Kivikas

Estonian journalist and author
Born
January 18th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1978 47 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1898, a prominent Estonian journalist and author contributed significantly to Estonian literature and journalism. He worked on various newspapers and critically examined the political landscape of Estonia during his lifetime. His literary work often reflected the social and political issues facing Estonia and included themes of nationalism and the struggle for independence. Kivikas was heavily involved in the efforts to preserve the Estonian language and culture during tumultuous periods in Estonian history, including World War II and Soviet occupation.

Continue Reading

Andy Rourke

Bassist for The Smiths
Born
1964 61 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2023 2 years ago — 59 years old

Bassist contributed to the influential band The Smiths during the 1980s. Formed in 1982, the band released four studio albums and several singles that defined the sound of the era. Successful works include 'The Queen Is Dead' and 'Meat Is Murder'. Rourke's melodic basslines became characteristic of the band's music. After The Smiths disbanded in 1987, he worked with various artists and formed several bands. Rourke continued to perform and record music throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy in the alternative rock scene.

Continue Reading

Jack Brabham

Race car driver and three-time F1 champion
Born
April 2nd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

An Australian race car driver achieved significant success in Formula One racing during the 1950s and 1960s. Won three World Drivers' Championships in 1959, 1960, and 1966, making him the first driver to win a championship in a car of his own construction. Established the Brabham team and developed innovative racing technology that contributed to the sport's evolution. Retired from racing in 1970 but remained involved in motorsport as a team owner and mentor.

Continue Reading