Wisława Szymborska

Polish poet, Nobel Prize laureate

Wisława Szymborska - Polish poet, Nobel Prize laureate
Born

July 2nd, 1923
102 years ago

Died

February 1st, 2012
13 years ago — 88 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Poland

Links & References

A prominent poet and translator, contributed significantly to contemporary poetry. Achieved international acclaim with a distinct style characterized by clarity and irony. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1996. Developed a unique approach to philosophical and existential themes through poetry. Works often reflect on the nature of human existence, history, and memory, revealing the intricacies of everyday life. Their poetry was widely translated and remains influential.

Receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1996

Publishing acclaimed poetry collections such as 'View with a Grain of Sand' and 'Nonrequired Reading'

Other People Born on July 2nd

Jose Canseco

Baseball player, 1989 AL MVP
Born
July 2nd, 1964 61 years ago

A celebrated baseball player and mixed martial artist, Canseco was a prominent figure in Major League Baseball during the late 1980s and 1990s. Joining the Oakland Athletics in 1985, he quickly gained recognition for his powerful hitting and strong fielding abilities. Canseco secured the American League Most Valuable Player award in 1989, leading the league in home runs and total bases. He played a pivotal role in the Athletics' success during their three consecutive AL West championships from 1988 to 1990. Transitioning to a mixed martial arts career later in life, he featured in several matches, contributing to the growing intersection of baseball and combat sports narratives. Canseco's outspoken nature and autobiographical writings added to his public persona, making him a notable figure beyond just sports.

Continue Reading

Vicente Fox

Mexican politician and former president
Born
July 2nd, 1942 83 years ago

A businessman transitioned into politics, served as the 35th President of Mexico from 2000 to 2006. Fox's presidency marked the end of a 71-year rule by the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), representing the National Action Party (PAN). Focused on democracy, economic reform, and strengthening relations with the United States, emphasized free trade through the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). After leaving office, remained active in various social and political initiatives, including education and economic development.

Continue Reading

Sophie Harris

Costume and scenic designer for theatre
Born
July 2nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 66 years old

An English costume and scenic designer specialized in theatre and opera. Career included collaborations with prominent theatres in England, contributing to productions that showcased innovative designs. Recognized for ability to enhance storytelling through visual aesthetics, employing unique materials and techniques. Worked alongside notable directors and production teams, influencing the design landscape of theatrical presentations during the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Alfons Maria Jakob

German neurologist and author of research
Born
July 2nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1931 93 years ago — 47 years old

A neurologist and researcher who significantly contributed to the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Early work focused on the pathology of diseases affecting the nervous system. Jakob is particularly associated with the identification of a rare prion disease, named Jakob disease after him. Published various studies that advanced the field of neurology and influenced subsequent research on neurodegeneration. His findings laid the foundation for later understanding of similar conditions, including Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Continue Reading

Imelda Marcos

Filipino politician; 10th First Lady
Born
July 2nd, 1929 96 years ago

Served as the First Lady of the Philippines from 1965 to 1986 during the presidency of husband Ferdinand Marcos. Oversaw significant cultural initiatives, including the establishment of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Known for lavish spending and numerous controversies surrounding the administration's wealth accumulation. Played a crucial role in political affairs and was influential in social and cultural policies. After the fall of the Marcos regime, faced numerous legal challenges and was implicated in corruption and abuse of power.

Continue Reading

Larry David

American comedian and creator of Curb Your Enthusiasm
Born
July 2nd, 1947 78 years ago

An American actor, comedian, producer, and screenwriter often recognized for the creation and starring role in the television series Curb Your Enthusiasm. In addition to this work, significant contributions were made as a writer and producer for the television series Seinfeld, where a unique comedic voice emerged, influencing future television. David's style of humor often involves social situations and character interactions, showcasing a distinct point of view.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 1st

Alva Myrdal

Sociologist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate
Born
January 31st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1986 39 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Sweden, a significant figure in sociology and politics, contributed to the fields of disarmament and peace research. Served as a member of the Swedish parliament and held positions in various international organizations. Played a key role in advocating for nuclear disarmament and was involved in the United Nations. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 for her work in nuclear disarmament.

Continue Reading

Alfréd Rényi

Mathematician and academic known for probability theory
Born
March 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1970 55 years ago — 48 years old

Contributions to mathematics included significant work in set theory and probability theory. Founded the Rényi Institute of Mathematics in Budapest. Advanced research on stochastic processes and combinatorial number theory. Authored several influential papers and books that shaped modern mathematical thought.

Continue Reading

Giuseppe Ottavio Pitoni

Italian organist and composer
Born
March 18th, 1657 368 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1743 282 years ago — 85 years old

An influential Italian composer and organist, contributed significantly to the Baroque music scene. Worked primarily in Rome, where compositions included numerous choral works and motets. Also known for sacred music, particularly in the tradition of the Roman Catholic Church. Authored numerous compositions that enhanced the liturgical music of his time, combining Italian musical traditions with Counter-Reformation ideals.

Continue Reading

Girolamo Aleandro

Italian Cardinal and diplomat
Born
February 13th, 1480 545 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1542 483 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the Renaissance, served as a cardinal and played a significant role in political and religious matters in Italy and beyond. Instrumental in the Counter-Reformation efforts, held various ecclesiastical positions, including papal legate. Represented the church in significant treaties and negotiations within Europe, particularly during the Council of Trent, where major reforms were discussed. Advocated for the church's positions against Protestantism.

Continue Reading

Georgios Kondylis

Greek general and Prime Minister
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1936 89 years ago — 58 years old

A general and politician from Greece, served as the 128th Prime Minister from 1926 to 1928. His military career included participation in the Greco-Turkish War (1919-1922). After the war, Kondylis became involved in politics, leading various military and political factions. His governance focused on stabilizing the country post-war. His tenure was marked by significant political changes within Greece.

Continue Reading

Donald Wills Douglas

Aerospace engineer, founded Douglas Aircraft
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1981 44 years ago — 89 years old

An American engineer and businessman established the Douglas Aircraft Company in 1921. The company became a significant player in aerospace production, particularly during World War II and the post-war era. Douglas led the development of several military and civilian aircraft, including the DC-3, which revolutionized air travel. He was instrumental in advancing aerospace technology and manufacturing processes, contributing to both aviation and defense industries. Under his leadership, the company achieved significant production milestones and expanded into various aircraft models that were widely utilized worldwide. Douglas's efforts laid the groundwork for future advancements in aviation.

Continue Reading