Wendy Wasserstein
Playwright with a Pulitzer Prize
An American playwright and academic, achievements include writing several acclaimed plays that explore themes of feminism, identity, and the American experience. Works include 'The Sisters Rosensweig', which focuses on the lives of three women reuniting for a birthday celebration, and 'An American Daughter', addressing the roles of women in society. Wasserstein received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1998 for the play 'The Sisters Rosensweig' and a Tony Award for Best Play in 1977 for 'The Sisters Rosensweig'.
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1998
Received a Tony Award for Best Play in 1977
Published notable works including 'An American Daughter' and 'The Sisters Rosensweig'
Other People Born on October 18th
Emperor Go-Shirakawa
Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
October 18th, 1127 898 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1192 833 years ago — 64 years old
Ruled as the 77th Emperor of Japan from 1155 until 1158, followed by a period of influence after abdication. Focused on the Heian period’s political dynamics, influenced by the rise of the samurai class. Founded the cloistered government system, which allowed for continued political involvement even after abdication. His reign experienced significant military conflict, notably the Genpei War, which would shape future political landscapes. His tenure marked the transition in imperial power structures and laid groundwork for subsequent shogunate rule.
Continue ReadingPascual Jordan
Physicist and quantum mechanics theorist
Born
October 18th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1980 45 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the foundation of quantum mechanics. Developed the Jordan form in linear algebra and contributed to the formulation of quantum field theory. Served as a professor at the University of Göttingen. Engaged in the scientific community during the mid-20th century, influencing various aspects of theoretical physics.
Continue ReadingJames Foley
Journalist and war correspondent
Born
October 18th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 40 years old
A photographer and journalist specialized in reporting from conflict zones, particularly in the Middle East. Worked for several international news organizations and covered the Syrian civil war extensively. Captured powerful images that highlighted the realities of war. Abducted in Syria in 2012 and held captive until 2014, when he was tragically killed. His work raised awareness about the dangers faced by journalists in hostile environments.
Continue ReadingLuca Giordano
Italian painter of Baroque frescoes
Born
October 18th, 1634 391 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1705 320 years ago — 70 years old
An influential Italian painter, active during the Baroque period, specialized in frescoes and oil paintings. Worked extensively in Naples and undertook commissions across Europe including Spain. Developed a distinctive style characterized by dynamic compositions and vibrant colors. Contributed significantly to the decoration of churches and palaces. Often referred to as 'Luca fa presto' for his speed in producing artworks. Produced over 300 works throughout a prolific career.
Continue ReadingJohn Johnson
American basketball player, NBA champion
Born
October 18th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 7th, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old
A basketball player played for teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers and the Seattle SuperSonics. Achieved significant success in the NBA, including winning the championship. Additionally, contributed to the sport in various roles after retirement, including coaching and mentorship within basketball programs.
Continue ReadingMelina Mercouri
Greek actress and Minister of Culture
Born
October 18th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1994 31 years ago — 73 years old
An accomplished actress and politician, this individual gained recognition for a prominent acting career in film and theatre. Starred in the acclaimed films 'Never on Sunday' and 'Topkapi'. Transitioned into politics, serving as Greece's Minister of Culture from 1981 to 1989 and becoming a key figure in cultural policy. Advocated for the return of the Elgin Marbles to Greece. Engaged in various international cultural initiatives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 30th
Huntz Hall
American actor in comedy films
Born
August 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1999 26 years ago — 79 years old
An actor recognized for comedic performances in films and television, including the 'Bowery Boys' series. Active primarily from the 1930s to the 1950s, contributed to the popularity of the low-budget comedy genre during that era. Frequently collaborated with other actors in the series, establishing a notable presence in American cinema.
Continue ReadingArthur O'Shaughnessy
English poet and herpetologist
Born
March 14th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1881 144 years ago — 36 years old
An English poet and herpetologist contributed significantly to Victorian poetry. Best known for the poem 'Ode', which includes the famous line 'We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams'. Also wrote a notable collection of poems titled 'Songs of the Open Road'. In addition to poetry, engaged in the study of reptiles and amphibians, publishing important works related to herpetology. His dual interests in literature and science marked a unique blend in his contributions.
Continue ReadingJohn Barry
Composer of film scores like 'Out of Africa'
Born
February 1st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2011 14 years ago — 137 years old
A prominent English composer and conductor, contributions to film music defined an era. Barry scored a range of films, with significant works in the 1960s and 70s. Collaborated with directors like Lewis Gilbert and embraced the James Bond franchise, composing memorable themes for several films. Achievements include multiple Academy Awards and a lasting influence on film scoring, characterized by lush orchestrations and emotive melodies.
Continue ReadingCarl Djerassi
Chemist and playwright with The Pill
Born
October 29th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
Austrian-American chemist contributed significantly to the development of synthetic progesterone, which led to the creation of the oral contraceptive pill. In addition to achievements in chemistry, authored several novels and plays, focusing on the intersection of science and human experience. Worked at various institutions, including Stanford University, where research in organic chemistry expanded understanding of steroid hormones. Engaged in promoting the importance of science in culture through literature.
Continue ReadingCharles I of England
Monarch of England, Scotland, and Ireland
Born
November 19th, 1600 425 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1649 376 years ago — 48 years old
Ruled as King of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1625 until execution in 1649. Engaged in conflicts with Parliament, leading to the English Civil War. Advocated for the divine right of kings and faced opposition from various factions. Imprisoned, tried, and executed for treason, marking a pivotal moment in British history. His reign was characterized by political strife and religious tensions.
Continue ReadingCoenraad Jacob Temminck
Dutch zoologist and ornithologist
Born
March 31st, 1778 247 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1858 167 years ago — 79 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of zoology and ornithology. Established a systematic approach to the classification of birds and authored influential works. Played a key role in the development of natural history in the Netherlands during the 19th century. Served as the first director of the Natural History Museum in Leiden, which became a center for scientific research.
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