Zachris Topelius

Finnish author and journalist

Zachris Topelius - Finnish author and journalist
Born

January 14th, 1818
207 years ago

Died

March 12th, 1898
127 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Finland

Links & References

A prominent figure in Finnish literature and journalism, contributed considerably to Finnish identity and culture during the 19th century. Authored several novels, poetry collections, and children's stories, focusing on themes related to Finnish folklore and history. Played a significant role in the development of Finnish-language literature. Edited various publications, advocating for national education and media.

Authored 'Maamme-kirja' (Our Land)

Served as editor for 'Helsingin Sanomat'

Other People Born on January 14th

Joel Rosario

Jockey winning major horse racing events
Born
January 14th, 1985 40 years ago

Born in the Dominican Republic, a prominent jockey achieved significant success in American horse racing. Began professional career in the early 2000s and garnered attention for multiple victories in prestigious races. Competed at various renowned racetracks and became a leading figure among North America's top jockeys. Achievements include winning the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and several Breeders' Cup races, showcasing skills and strategic riding. Gained recognition for adaptability on different horses and developing strong partnerships within the racing community.

Continue Reading

Robbie Brady

Irish footballer, Euro 2016 standout
Born
January 14th, 1992 33 years ago

Played as a winger and left back, competing at club level in the Premier League and international tournaments. Represented teams including Manchester United, Hull City, and Burnley. Gained recognition during the UEFA Euro 2016 with a significant goal against Italy, helping the national team reach the knockout stage. Participated in other international competitions, contributing to Ireland's efforts in qualifying and competing on a European stage.

Continue Reading

Don Garlits

Race car driver and drag racing legend
Born
January 14th, 1932 93 years ago

A prominent figure in the world of drag racing, this individual revolutionized the sport with innovative engineering and design. Garlits participated in drag races from the 1950s and was pivotal in popularizing the use of rear-engine dragsters. Achievements include multiple wins at the NHRA US Nationals and being the first to exceed 270 mph in a quarter-mile drag race. His contributions also extended to the development of advanced racing technologies and safety measures in drag racing vehicles. Garlits' career has included significant involvement in professional racing as both a driver and a builder of championship-winning cars.

Continue Reading

Léo Lima

Brazilian footballer with club success
Born
January 14th, 1982 43 years ago

A footballer born in Brazil, played predominantly as an attacking midfielder. Began a professional career at São Paulo FC and later played for several clubs including Vasco da Gama and the Qatar club Al-Wakrah. Achieved success in various domestic leagues and competitions, contributing to team victories and showcasing technical skills on the field.

Continue Reading

Mehmed VI

Ottoman Sultan during World War I
Born
January 14th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1926 99 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1861, served as the last Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1918 until the abolition of the sultanate in 1922. His reign coincided with the tumultuous period of World War I and the subsequent occupation of Istanbul. Oversaw the empire during significant political and social changes, including the rise of nationalist movements. After the defeat of the Ottoman Empire, fled to Italy. His reign marked the end of a centuries-old dynasty that had ruled over vast territories, including parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Continue Reading

Jean-Baptiste van Loo

French painter known for portraiture
Born
January 14th, 1684 341 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1745 279 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent French painter from the 18th century, van Loo specialized in portrait painting and became a prominent figure in the French art scene. Working primarily in the style of Rococo, he produced many notable portraits for the French aristocracy. His academic career included serving as a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture. Van Loo spent several years in Italy, where he was influenced by the works of the Old Masters. After returning to France, he became court painter to King Louis XV and produced various works that captured the elegance and opulence of the period.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 12th

Michael Grigsby

Director and producer of documentaries
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old

A director and producer, major works included producing and directing a range of impactful documentaries. Worked extensively with the BBC, producing acclaimed films that explored social and political issues. Contributed to the realm of documentary filmmaking with a focus on real-life narratives and human experiences. Engaged with various topics, including the lives of ordinary people and significant historical events.

Continue Reading

Asa Griggs Candler

American businessman and politician
Born
December 30th, 1851 173 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1929 96 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent businessman and politician, served as the 44th Mayor of Atlanta from 1910 to 1912. Candler co-founded the drink Coca-Cola and held substantial influence in its early marketing and distribution. Transitioned from business to politics, focusing on city improvement and public services. His tenure as mayor included initiatives in public health, infrastructure, and urban development.

Continue Reading

Frankie Frisch

Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
September 9th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1973 52 years ago — 74 years old

A professional baseball player and manager in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the New York Giants and St. Louis Cardinals. Achieved notable success as a second baseman, exhibiting exceptional hitting and fielding abilities. Transitioned into a managerial role after retirement, leading various teams in the league. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1947, highlighting a career that spanned over two decades in the sport.

Continue Reading

Ferenc Szálasi

Hungarian politician, Head of State
Born
1897 128 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1946 79 years ago — 49 years old

Served as the leader of Hungary during World War II. Szálasi held the position of Head of State from 1944 to 1945, advocating for the Arrow Cross Party's radical nationalist agenda. His regime aligned closely with Nazi Germany and implemented harsh measures against Jews and other minorities. Following the war, Szálasi was arrested and tried for war crimes. He was executed in 1946.

Continue Reading

Howard Fast

American novelist and screenwriter
Born
November 11th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2003 22 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent American novelist and screenwriter, contributed greatly to literature and film. Wrote over 50 novels, with significant works including 'Citizen Tom Paine', a biography of the American revolutionary, and 'Spartacus', which was adapted into a motion picture in 1960. Early works often reflected socialist themes and historical narratives, leading to political controversy during the McCarthy era. Served a prison sentence for refusing to testify before Congress regarding communist affiliations. Additionally, wrote screenplays, achieving recognition in both literary and cinematic fields.

Continue Reading

Beatrice Wood

Illustrator and potter, The Mother of Dada
Born
March 3rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1998 27 years ago — 105 years old

Born in 1893, an American illustrator and potter attained recognition as a prominent figure in the Dada art movement. Wood was actively involved in avant-garde circles, producing ceramics that combined artistic expression with utility. Her work showcased a unique style that merged traditional pottery techniques with experimental form and color. In addition to her pottery, Wood illustrated books and created works that reflected her association with Dadaism. She continued to create and display her art well into her later years, influencing both contemporaries and future generations of artists.

Continue Reading