Werner Herzog
German film director and producer
One of the leading figures in the New German Cinema movement, Herzog gained recognition for a unique style blending documentary and narrative forms. Directed films such as 'Aguirre, the Wrath of God', which explored themes of obsession and madness, and 'Fitzcarraldo', showcasing the ambition of a man to build an opera house in the Amazon rainforest. Herzog's documentary 'Grizzly Man' examined the life and death of bear enthusiast Timothy Treadwell. His work often defies conventional storytelling, and he has also penned several screenplays and authored books on cinema and philosophy.
Directed 'Aguirre, the Wrath of God'
Directed 'Fitzcarraldo'
Created the documentary 'Grizzly Man'
Other People Born on September 5th
Thomas Mikal Ford
American actor with notable TV roles
Born
September 5th, 1964 62 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 52 years old
An American actor gained prominence for roles in television and film. Best recognized for portraying Thomas 'Tommy' Strawn on the sitcom 'Martin' from 1992 to 1997. Appeared in several other television series including 'The Jamie Foxx Show' and 'Think Like a Man'. In addition to acting, held a career in directing and producing.
Continue ReadingMurray Mexted
Rugby player and sportscaster
Born
September 5th, 1953 73 years ago
A rugby player from New Zealand, competed at the international level during the 1970s and 1980s. Represented the national team, the All Blacks, and participated in notable tours, including the 1979 British Lions series. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retiring from professional play, contributing to rugby coverage on television and radio.
Continue ReadingJosué de Castro
Brazilian physician and activist
Born
September 5th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1973 52 years ago — 65 years old
A physician and geographer focused on public health and nutrition. Specialized in the study of hunger and food security, advocating for social reform policies to combat poverty. Contributed significantly to the field of geography with research emphasizing the relationship between health and environmental factors. Served as a senator in Brazil, promoting human rights and health advancements. Published influential works, including 'Geografia da Fome' (Geography of Hunger), which analyzed the causes and effects of hunger in Brazil.
Continue ReadingAmy Beach
American composer and pianist, Gaelic Symphony
Born
September 5th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
1944 82 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American composer and pianist, Beach made significant contributions to classical music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She composed a wide array of works, including symphonies, chamber music, and songs. Beach gained recognition with the premiere of her Gaelic Symphony in 1896, which was the first symphony composed and published by an American woman. Additionally, she played piano and performed her works at various concerts, contributing to her legacy in American music. Beach's compositions often drew on American folk themes and incorporated elements of European styles, reflecting her unique musical voice within her time.
Continue ReadingLouis XIV
King of France, the Sun King
Born
September 5th, 1638 388 years ago
Died
1715 311 years ago — 77 years old
Reigned from 1643 to 1715 as the monarch of France. Centralized power and established absolute monarchy. Strengthened the economy and military of France, promoting arts and culture during the period known as the Grand Siècle. Constructed the Palace of Versailles, becoming a symbol of royal luxury and authority. Known for his statement, "L'état, c'est moi" (I am the state), reflecting his belief in royal absolutism.
Continue ReadingRobert Fergusson
Scottish poet, author of 'The Farmer's Ingle'
Born
September 5th, 1750 276 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1774 251 years ago — 24 years old
Born in 1750, a poet and author contributed significantly to Scottish literature. Engaged in the literary scene of Edinburgh, his works reflected the life and struggles of the Scottish people. 'The Farmer's Ingle,' one of his notable works, showcases his unique style and deep connection to Scottish culture. Fergusson's writing often included themes of rural life and expressed a strong sense of national identity. His influence extended to later Scottish poets, including Robert Burns, who acknowledged Fergusson's impact on their own work. Despite a brief life, lasting contributions to Scottish poetry made a mark on the genre.
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