William S. Burroughs

Novelist and essayist; 'Naked Lunch'

William S. Burroughs - Novelist and essayist; 'Naked Lunch'
Born

February 5th, 1914
111 years ago

Died

August 2nd, 1997
28 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American novelist and essayist, contributed significantly to the Beat Generation of the 1950s. His most acclaimed work, 'Naked Lunch', published in 1959, features a non-linear narrative and explores themes of addiction, control, and societal critique. This controversial novel faced legal challenges and censorship but has since gained recognition as a seminal work of postmodern literature. Burroughs also experimented with cut-up writing techniques, influencing various artistic domains. He published several other notable works including 'Junky' and 'The Ticket That Exploded', and engaged in diverse artistic collaborations and countercultural movements throughout his life.

Authored the controversial novel 'Naked Lunch'

Pioneered cut-up writing techniques

Wrote influential works like 'Junky'

Other People Born on February 5th

Renato Petronio

Italian Rower and Olympic Competitor
Born
February 5th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1976 49 years ago — 85 years old

Competed in rowing events representing Italy. Achieved significant success at the 1920 Summer Olympics, where won a bronze medal in the men's coxless pair event. Participated in various national and international competitions, contributing to the Italian rowing scene during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Joan Whitney Payson

Businesswoman and philanthropist
Born
February 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1975 49 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent businesswoman and philanthropist, played a significant role in the development of Thoroughbred horse racing in the United States. Served as part of the ownership for the New York Mets and was instrumental in the team's early success. Contributed substantial resources to various cultural institutions and philanthropic causes, particularly in the arts and education.

Continue Reading

Paul Vandervort

Actor and film producer, 'In the Dark'
Born
February 5th, 1985 40 years ago

Born in 1985, this American actor and film producer started a career in the entertainment industry as a model before transitioning to acting. The individual gained recognition for a prominent role in the series 'In the Dark' and has also produced several independent films. The career includes work in fashion and various productions, showcasing versatility in both acting and production roles.

Continue Reading

Adlai Stevenson II

American diplomat and UN Ambassador
Born
February 5th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1965 60 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 5th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 1961 to 1965. Played a significant role in foreign policy discussions during the Cold War, particularly during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Contributed to U.N. efforts focusing on the promotion of peace and international cooperation.

Continue Reading

Amnon Dankner

Israeli journalist and author
Born
February 5th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1946, this individual worked extensively in journalism, contributing to major publications in Israel. An author as well, he penned several books focusing on Israeli society, politics, and culture. His work often reflected the complexities of life in Israel and engaged with historical perspectives. The contributions spanned decades, influencing both public discourse and literary thought in the country.

Continue Reading

Samuel Sánchez

Spanish professional cyclist, Olympic gold medalist
Born
February 5th, 1978 47 years ago

A professional cyclist from Spain, achieved significant success in road racing. Competed for teams such as Euskaltel-Euskadi and BMC Racing. Secured a gold medal in the men’s road race at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Gained recognition for strong performances in Grand Tours, including multiple top-ten finishes in the Tour de France and Vuelta a España.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 2nd

Roy Cohn

American lawyer and political activist
Born
February 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1986 39 years ago — 59 years old

Built a prominent career in law, gaining recognition as a legal advisor in high-profile cases. Served as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Red Scare, advocating for anti-communist actions. Established a private practice in New York City, representing various clients including influential business figures and organized crime members. Publicly engaged in controversial political activism throughout his career, asserting a staunch conservative viewpoint. Played a significant role in various cases and investigations, with a reputation for aggressive courtroom tactics.

Continue Reading

Norman Maclean

American author of A River Runs Through It
Born
December 23rd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1990 35 years ago — 87 years old

An author and academic, he taught English at the University of Chicago. His most recognized work, 'A River Runs Through It,' was published in 1976, detailing a family's relationship with fly fishing and the lessons learned from nature. The novella, set in Montana, illustrated the complexities of family bonds and personal struggles. The narrative's exploration of faith and loss resonated with readers, leading to its adaptation into a critically acclaimed film in 1992, directed by Robert Redford.

Continue Reading

Wild Bill Hickok

American lawman and legendary gunfighter
Born
May 27th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1876 149 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1837, a lawman and gunfighter. Served as a law enforcement officer in various frontier towns, including Abilene, Kansas. Gained a reputation for exceptional marksmanship and quick draw. Involved in various shootouts, solidifying a legendary status in American folklore. Also worked as a scout for the Union Army during the Civil War and served as a performer in Wild West shows. His life inspired numerous books and films.

Continue Reading

Douglas Hawkes

Racing driver and engineer
Born
September 11th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1974 51 years ago — 80 years old

Engaged in automobile racing, participated in various competitions throughout the 1920s. Competed extensively in the Mille Miglia, a legendary endurance race in Italy. Contributed to engineering advancements in automotive design, influencing racing techniques during that era. The role as a driver and engineer showcased a blend of competitive spirit and technical expertise.

Continue Reading

Patriarch John VIII of Constantinople

Eastern Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople
Died
August 2nd, 1075 950 years ago — None years old

Served as Patriarch of Constantinople from 1043 until death in 1075. Engaged in significant theological disputes, notably with the Latin Church. Contributed to church governance and liturgical practices during a period of political instability in Byzantium. Worked on fostering relationships with various Eastern Christian communities.

Continue Reading

Pope Stephen I

Pope and early Christian martyr
Died
August 2nd, 257 1768 years ago — None years old

Served as Pope from 254 to 257, leading the early Christian Church during a time of persecution under Emperor Valerian. Advocated for the legitimacy of baptism performed by heretics, emphasizing its importance for salvation. His papacy was marked by the establishment of key doctrines that would influence the Church's teachings. Martyrdom occurred during the Valerian persecution, securing a legacy as a holy figure in Christian history.

Continue Reading