Willy Ronis
French photographer of urban life
Contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in capturing everyday life in post-war France. Early works in the 1930s focused on the Parisian working class, presenting a humanistic perspective through photography. Achieved great recognition with the publication of the book 'Paris de ma fenêtre' in 1954, which showcased intimate and poignant images of the city and its inhabitants. His style blended documentary and artistic photography, influencing generations of photographers. Worked extensively throughout his career and is considered one of the key figures in French humanist photography.
Published 'Paris de ma fenêtre'
Photographed the daily life of Parisians
Other People Born on August 14th
Cupid Childs
Baseball player, World's Champion 1890
Born
August 14th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1912 114 years ago — 45 years old
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1889 with the Cleveland Spiders. Played as an outfielder and became a notable player in the National League during the 1890s. Contributed to the Philadelphia Phillies and the St. Louis Browns, where remarkable performance included high batting averages and numerous runs. Achieved the distinction of being a member of the 1890 Pennsylvania State League championship team. Retired from professional baseball after several seasons, recognized for significant contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingTheodor Luts
Estonian director and cinematographer
Born
August 14th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1980 45 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to Estonian cinema during the 20th century. Directed the film "Viimne reliikvia" in 1969, which became a pivotal work in the national film industry. Produced films that often depicted the struggles and joys of Estonian life, reflecting historical and cultural themes. Collaborated with other artists to promote Estonian cinema on the international stage. Served as a mentor to a generation of filmmakers, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of cinematography.
Continue ReadingErnest Thayer
American poet best known for 'Casey at Bat'
Born
August 14th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1940 85 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1863, a poet and author achieved recognition primarily through the poem 'Casey at Bat'. The work, first published in the San Francisco Examiner in 1888, captured the spirit of American baseball and became a beloved piece of sports literature. Thayer's writings often revolved around themes of sports culture and have been celebrated for their vivid imagery and rhythmic style. In addition to poetry, he contributed to various newspapers and played a role in the literary community of his era.
Continue ReadingGuangxu Emperor of China
Emperor and reform advocate
Born
August 14th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1908 117 years ago — 37 years old
Ascended to the throne at the age of four. Ruled during a time of significant political and social change in China. Advocated for the Hundred Days' Reform in 1898, aiming to modernize China's political and educational systems. The reform efforts met strong opposition from conservative factions within the Qing court. Following a coup led by Empress Dowager Cixi, the reforms were largely reversed, and the emperor was placed under house arrest for the remainder of his life. His reign saw the increasing influence of foreign powers in China.
Continue ReadingGiambattista Benedetti
Italian mathematician and physicist
Born
August 14th, 1530 495 years ago
Died
1590 436 years ago — 60 years old
Contributions to mathematics and physics included early work in the fields of mechanics, optics, and the development of calculus concepts. Introduced the concept of inertia in physics, which later influenced Newtonian mechanics. Wrote several treatises, including 'De Praecomputatione' and 'On the Motion of Projectile Bodies.' Engaged in discussions and correspondence with other prominent scientists of the time, enriching the scientific discourse of the Renaissance period.
Continue ReadingFrederick William I of Prussia
King of Prussia; Soldier King
Born
August 14th, 1688 337 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1740 285 years ago — 51 years old
Ruled as King of Prussia from 1713 until 1740. Revolutionized military organization, establishing a strong Prussian army. Implemented fiscal policies that strengthened the state. Focused on maintaining a frugal court and expanded the territories of Prussia through diplomatic means. Fostered a sense of nationalism among the Prussian people.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 12th
Christian Dietrich Grabbe
German poet and playwright, notable works
Born
December 11th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1836 189 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1801, a German poet and playwright made significant contributions to German literature during the early 19th century. His works often displayed a blend of tragic and comedic elements, influencing later literary movements. Grabbe's notable plays include 'Don Juan' and 'Hannibal', which explored themes of ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of human nature. His style anticipated elements of expressionism and remained influential among later playwrights and poets.
Continue ReadingEugenio Montale
Italian poet, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 12th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 84 years old
An Italian poet and translator, contribution to literature includes profound and innovative poetry. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1975 for the essential, symbolic nature of his work. His poetry often explores themes of existence, nature, and personal introspection. Advocated for the importance of poetic expression during times of sociopolitical upheaval. Worked as a literary critic and translator, bringing the works of other authors into Italian and enriching cultural exchanges.
Continue ReadingWarren Giese
American football player and politician
Born
July 14th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
Giese played college football at the University of South Carolina and later played professionally in the National Football League (NFL). Giese transitioned to coaching after his playing career, serving as head coach for multiple teams, including the University of South Carolina, and leading the Gamecocks to a successful record. In addition to his career in sports, Giese pursued a role in politics, serving in the South Carolina House of Representatives.
Continue ReadingSerge Lang
Mathematician and author of Algebra
Born
May 19th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 78 years old
A mathematician and author with significant contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly in algebra and number theory. Authored several influential textbooks, including a widely used text titled 'Algebra.' Served as a professor at prestigious institutions and participated in various mathematical conferences. Engaged in activism within the mathematical community to improve the accessibility of mathematics education. Contributed to the mathematical literature through numerous published papers and served on editorial boards for mathematical journals.
Continue ReadingBoris Yegorov
Russian physician and astronaut
Born
November 26th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 56 years old
Earned a medical degree from the First Moscow Medical Institute and served as a physician in the Soviet military. Participated in the Voskhod 2 mission as a flight engineer in 1965, which included the first spacewalk in history. After spaceflight, worked in various medical and scientific roles, contributing to space medicine and research related to human health in space environments.
Continue ReadingTommy Armour
Golfer and sportscaster, U.S. Open winner
Born
September 24th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1968 57 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent golfer and sportscaster, this individual became one of the first celebrities in professional golf. Competed in the early 20th century, achieving significant success on the PGA Tour. Won the U.S. Open in 1927, along with victories at the 1930 PGA Championship and the 1931 Western Open. Transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis for golf tournaments, influencing the way golf was presented to audiences. Authored several instructional books on golfing techniques that contributed to the sport’s educational resources.
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