July 29

Born in 1605 in Memel (now Klaipėda), Simon Dach studied theology at Königsberg University. He became a university professor and prolific poet, known for writing over 200 hymns and lyrical poems. His hymn 'Ännchen von Tharau' remains part of the German folk and church music tradition. Dach fostered a circle of poets and musicians, contributing to the cultural life of East Prussia. His work blends religious devotion with humanist influences, reflecting Baroque literary trends.

Born Mordecai David Nordau, he rose to prominence as a pioneer in modern social criticism with works like 'Degeneration'. A close associate of Theodor Herzl, Nordau co-founded the World Zionist Organization in 1897, advocating for a Jewish homeland. He balanced his medical career with prolific writing on culture, politics, and anti-Semitism. Nordau’s influence extended well beyond Europe as he shaped early Zionist ideology and Jewish self-determination.

Born in Indiana, Tarkington captured the changing landscape of early 20th-century America in novels like 'The Magnificent Ambersons' and 'Alice Adams.' His keen observations of societal shifts and family dynamics earned him Pulitzer Prizes in 1919 and 1922. Beyond fiction, he wrote popular plays and essays, influencing generations of writers. Several of his works were adapted into successful films during Hollywood’s silent era.

As a novelist and contributor to leading newspapers, Mändmets portrayed rural life and national identity during Estonia’s push for independence. His works combined lyrical storytelling with social critique, inspiring young readers to embrace Estonian language and traditions. Through his journalism, he championed educational reforms and women's rights, leaving an enduring mark on Estonian literature and society.

Born in Hawaii, Knudsen practiced law before entering territorial politics, where he served in the legislature and advocated for local autonomy. Simultaneously, he wrote popular short stories capturing Hawaiian folklore and culture. His dual career bridged legal reform and literary arts, helping to document the islands' unique heritage during a period of rapid change.

Don Marquis (1878–1937) was an influential American author, poet, and playwright whose work combined humor, satire, and philosophy. He wrote the popular newspaper columns featuring archy, a free verse cockroach bard, and his companion Mehitabel, the alley cat. Marquis published several poetry collections and novels, weaving social commentary with whimsical storytelling. As a playwright, he adapted his own works and those of others, further showcasing his versatility. His writing often explored human nature and moral issues through lighthearted narratives. Marquis’s legacy endures in American literature for his innovative poetic style and enduring characters.

Porfirio Barba-Jacob (1883–1942) was a prominent Colombian poet and author whose work embodied modernist and romantic influences. Born as Miguel Ángel Osorio Benítez, he adopted the pen name Porfirio Barba-Jacob and traveled extensively through Latin America, Europe, and the United States. His poetry collections, such as 'Rosas de la Infancia' and 'El Libro de las Palabras,' are noted for their emotional depth and lyrical clarity. Barba-Jacob’s writing often explored themes of exile, identity, and longing, earning him acclaim across the Spanish-speaking world. In addition to poetry, he produced essays and short stories that reflected his cosmopolitan experiences. His legacy remains influential in Latin American literature, inspiring generations of poets.

Eyvind Johnson was a Swedish novelist and short story writer whose works often explored themes of exile, freedom, and human dignity. He gained fame for his 'Krilon' trilogy and wrote novels that blended realism and myth. His experimental narrative techniques and vivid characterizations earned him international acclaim. In 1974, Johnson was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. Before his writing career, he worked as a typesetter and later as a journalist. His influential body of work left a lasting mark on 20th-century literature until his death in 1976.

Stanley Kunitz (1905-2006) was an influential American poet whose career spanned over seven decades. He won Pulitzer Prizes for his collections Selected Poems 1928-1958 and Passing Through. Kunitz served as U.S. Poet Laureate in 1974 and again in 2000, shaping the nation's literary landscape. He was also an accomplished translator and editor, introducing readers to international poets. His work often explored themes of memory, loss, and renewal through rich imagery and introspection. Kunitz mentored generations of writers and left a lasting legacy in American verse.

Samm Sinclair Baker (1909-1997) was an American writer renowned for his practical self-help and lifestyle guides. He co-authored the best-selling Scarsdale Medical Diet which sparked a national diet craze. Baker's works on nutrition, cooking, and health were translated into multiple languages and sold millions of copies. He combined straightforward advice with engaging writing, making complex health topics accessible to everyday readers. His books influenced generations seeking simple and effective wellness strategies. Baker's legacy lives on in the continued popularity of his methods.

Chester Himes (1909-1984) was an African-American novelist whose work broke new ground in crime fiction. After early legal troubles, he found literary success with his Harlem Detective series featuring Coffin Ed Johnson and Gravedigger Jones. Himes's novels such as A Rage in Harlem and Cotton Comes to Harlem combined sharp social commentary with dark humor and suspense. He moved to Europe in the 1950s, where he continued writing and gained international acclaim. His storytelling addressed race, justice, and urban life in mid-20th-century America. Himes's dynamic prose and bold themes remain influential in the genre.

Don Ingalls was born in 1918 in Keokuk, Iowa. He began his career writing for radio programs before moving to television in the 1950s. Ingalls wrote and produced episodes for popular shows including Dragnet, Adam-12, and Star Trek during its first season. His scripts were praised for their tight plotting, character development, and action sequences. He also worked on other series such as The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and Route 66, showcasing his versatility across genres. Ingalls received acclaim from peers for his dedication to storytelling craft. He continued to consult on television projects well into his later years. Ingalls passed away in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of memorable television writing.