Wilhelm Grimm
German anthropologist and author
Contributed significantly to folklore and linguistics. Along with his brother, collected and published fairy tales that became classics, including 'Cinderella' and 'Hansel and Gretel'. Developed important theories in German philology and worked on the German Dictionary project. Involved in the founding of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Volkskunde, promoting the study of folklore.
Co-authored 'Grimm's Fairy Tales'
Contributed to the study of linguistics
Helped establish German philology
Other People Born on February 24th
Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz
Polish author and painter
Born
February 24th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1939 86 years ago — 54 years old
An author, poet, and painter, contributed significantly to the development of Polish theatre and literature in the early 20th century. Established a unique style characterized by the integration of visual arts and dramatic literature. Developed a psychological and philosophical system, particularly through his plays which explored themes of existentialism and identity. Active in the avant-garde movement, Witkiewicz's work often challenged societal norms and traditional artistic expressions. His artistic contributions are marked by a deep engagement with complex human emotions and the absurdities of life.
Continue ReadingRodrigue Beaubois
French basketball player and NBA contributor
Born
February 24th, 1988 37 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily in the NBA and European leagues. Started career in France before joining the Dallas Mavericks in 2010. Contributed to the Mavericks' success during his tenure. Later played in various European leagues, showcasing skills and experience gained in the NBA.
Continue ReadingDominic Chianese
American actor and singer, best known for The Sopranos
Born
February 24th, 1931 94 years ago
An accomplished actor and singer was born in 1931 in the United States. The artistic career began in theater before transitioning to television and film. The role of Corrado Soprano, Jr. in the acclaimed series The Sopranos garnered significant recognition. In addition to acting, contributed to music through performances and recordings, showcasing vocal talent. The groundwork laid in local theater paved the way for a versatile career spanning multiple decades.
Continue ReadingJohan Christian Dahl
Norwegian-German Romantic painter
Born
February 24th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1857 169 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1788, a pivotal figure in the German Romantic movement, became prominent for landscape painting. Studied in Dresden and was heavily influenced by nature and the German romantic style. Developed a distinct approach to capturing atmospheric light and natural beauty, focusing on regions in Norway and Germany. Contributed to the establishment of the German Romantic landscape tradition and influenced subsequent artists with unique interpretations of Norwegian vistas. Participated in exhibitions and received recognition for works celebrating Scandinavia's landscapes.
Continue ReadingWilson Bethel
Actor in 'Hart of Dixie' and 'The Wellingtons'
Born
February 24th, 1984 41 years ago
Born in 1984, this actor gained recognition for roles in popular television series. Achievements include prominent appearances in 'Hart of Dixie' where the character Wade Kinsella featured prominently. Additionally, contributed to the production in 'The Wellingtons', showcasing versatility and depth in performance.
Continue ReadingBob Sanders
American football safety, Super Bowl champion
Born
February 24th, 1981 44 years ago
A professional American football player played safety in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the Indianapolis Colts. Celebrated for a hard-hitting playing style, contributed to team success during the 2006 season, culminating in a victory at Super Bowl XLI. Recognized for exceptional defensive skills, earned accolades as an All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection, showcasing significant impact on defensive plays.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Alphonse Daudet
French author and playwright
Born
May 13th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1897 128 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1840, a prominent figure in French literature, made significant contributions through novels, poetry, and plays. Best known for the novel "Les Lettres de mon Moulin," which encapsulates the essence of Provencal life. Also authored "Tartarin de Tarascon," a satirical novel that became a classic. His works often explored themes of nostalgia and the rural landscape of France, reflecting personal experiences and the social issues of the time.
Continue ReadingJohann Adolph Hasse
German singer and composer known for operas
Born
March 25th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1783 242 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1699, a prominent figure in 18th-century opera, contributed significantly to the development of Italian opera in Germany. Studied in Naples and became associated with the Neapolitan school. Held positions in various European courts, including those in Dresden and Venice. Composed over 20 operas, which were well received during his lifetime. His works often featured elaborate vocal lines and dramatic orchestration, showcasing the style of the time. His influence extended to later composers, shaping the evolution of opera.
Continue ReadingFrançois Quesnay
French economist and physician
Born
June 4th, 1694 331 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1774 251 years ago — 80 years old
Quesnay contributed significantly to economic theory as a leader of the Physiocratic movement. This school of thought emphasized the importance of agriculture and the land as the source of wealth. His work, the 'Tableau Économique', illustrated the economic processes of society, influencing future economic thought. In addition to economics, Quesnay practiced medicine and served as a physician to King Louis XV, integrating health with economic principles. His ideas laid the groundwork for later economic theories.
Continue ReadingStefan Heym
German-American soldier and author
Born
April 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old
Born in Germany, played a significant role as a soldier in World War II before moving to the United States. Authored several novels and plays that often reflected social and political issues. Became a prominent figure in literature, especially noted for works that illustrated the experiences of war and exile. Contributed to post-war German literature and culture through his writings and activism against totalitarianism.
Continue ReadingAgnes Martin
Painter with major abstract works
Born
March 22nd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2004 21 years ago — 92 years old
An influential painter and educator, this individual contributed significantly to the field of abstract art. Early life included experiences in both Canada and the United States, leading to the development of a unique artistic style characterized by subtle color palettes and grid-like compositions. Influenced by various philosophical ideals, particularly Zen Buddhism, the work emphasizes simplicity and serenity. Achievements include numerous solo exhibitions and a lasting legacy in contemporary art education.
Continue ReadingElinor Wylie
American author and poet
Born
September 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1928 97 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1885, this author and poet gained recognition during the early 20th century for crafting lyrical poetry and novels. Notable works include 'The Orphan Angel' and 'The Venetian Glass Nephew'. The poet's work often featured themes of love, nature, and human emotion, resonating with readers of the era. In addition to prose, contributions to poetry established a reputation as a significant literary figure of the time.
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