January 02

Born Sholem Yakov Abramovich in 1836, Mendele Mocher Sforim published stories that blended folkloric tradition with modern realism. His works, including 'Fishke der krumer' and 'Di Yidishe folksbibliotek,' offered sharp social commentary on shtetl life. He wrote in Yiddish and Hebrew, helping to elevate both languages in literary circles. Mendele’s satire highlighted issues of poverty, superstition, and the struggle for education within Jewish communities. His innovative style inspired a generation of Yiddish writers and established a new literary discourse. He died in 1917, leaving a rich legacy in Eastern European Jewish culture.

Born in 1886 in London, Apsley Cherry-Garrard joined Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition to Antarctica from 1910 to 1913. He was a member of the team that undertook the notoriously brutal 'Winter Journey' to collect emperor penguin eggs for scientific study. After returning to England, he wrote 'The Worst Journey in the World,' published in 1922, which vividly describes the hardships and camaraderie of polar exploration. The book is acclaimed for its literary quality and candid portrayal of extreme conditions. Cherry-Garrard was awarded the Polar Medal for his contributions to Antarctic science. He later worked in ornithology, translation, and lived to see his memoir recognized as a classic. He died in 1959.

Born David Kaufman in 1896, Dziga Vertov became a key figure in early Soviet cinema’s avant-garde movement. He is best known for his film 'Man with a Movie Camera' (1929), which showcased his innovative montage techniques and camera experiments. Vertov championed the 'Kino-Eye' theory, arguing that film should capture life unawares to reveal deeper truths. His work influenced generations of documentary filmmakers and film theorists worldwide. Despite censorship and political challenges, he continued to experiment with form until his death in 1954. Vertov’s legacy endures in contemporary discussions of cinematic realism and montage.

Riccardo Cassin (1909-2009) was an iconic Italian mountaineer known for first ascents on some of the Alps' most challenging faces. In 1938, he completed the inaugural ascent of the Cassin Route on Piz Badile, earning international acclaim. He led Himalayan expeditions to peaks like Gasherbrum IV and Kangchenjunga, pushing the limits of high-altitude climbing. Cassin founded an outdoor equipment company that became a world leader in mountaineering gear. He authored books recounting his adventures, sharing his philosophy of alpinism with readers. His legacy endures in the mountaineering community for his daring spirit and craftsmanship.

Barry Goldwater (1909-1998) was a five-term U.S. Senator from Arizona and a founding figure of modern American conservatism. He championed limited government, individual liberty, and a robust national defense, reshaping the Republican Party. Goldwater was the party's 1964 presidential nominee, running on principles over political compromise. A successful businessman, he also served as a pilot in World War II and the Air Force Reserve. An author of several books, he articulated his political philosophy and supported civil rights within a conservative framework. His legacy lives on in the grassroots conservative movement and the ideological shift he inspired in American politics.

Isaac Asimov was one of the most prolific writers of the 20th century, authoring hundreds of books. He is best known for his 'Foundation' series and 'Robot' novels, which revolutionized science fiction. Asimov held a Ph.D. in biochemistry and taught at Boston University School of Medicine. His popular science books made complex concepts accessible to general readers. He wrote on a wide range of topics including history, religion, and literature. Asimov's clear prose and imaginative world-building continue to inspire scientists and writers.

Charles Beaumont wrote groundbreaking stories for magazines like Playboy and Fantasy & Science Fiction. He contributed memorable teleplays to 'The Twilight Zone,' including 'The Howling Man.' Beaumont's fiction explored themes of identity, horror, and social satire. His career was cut short by a degenerative illness that took his writing abilities. Despite his early death, Beaumont's work continues to influence horror and science fiction.

David Shapiro (1947-2024) was an American poet, historian, and critic. He published several volumes of poetry that received critical acclaim. As a historian, he examined cultural and social developments in American history. Shapiro contributed essays and reviews to leading literary journals. His criticism offered insights into contemporary literature and art. He passed away in 2024, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Christopher Durang (1949-2024) was an American playwright and screenwriter. He was celebrated for his irreverent humor and sharp satire. Durang's plays often explored social norms and family dynamics with wit. Notable works include 'Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All for You' and 'Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike'. He won multiple awards, including Obie and Tony nominations. His influence on contemporary theater continues through productions worldwide.

Évelyne Trouillot was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in 1954 into a family of writers and intellectuals. She has authored novels, short stories, and plays in both French and Haitian Creole, including Rosalie l'infame and La mémoire aux abois. Trouillot's writing often addresses social injustice, gender dynamics, and the legacy of colonialism in Haiti. She founded the Atelier des musiciens de l'avenir to support emerging Caribbean authors. Her plays have been performed internationally, highlighting Haiti's rich cultural heritage. In addition to her creative work, she teaches literature and mentors young writers. Trouillot's voice has become integral to contemporary Caribbean literature.