Norwegian musicians died at 57
Here are 12 famous musicians from Norway died at 57:
Alexander Kielland
Alexander Kielland (February 18, 1849 Stavanger-April 6, 1906 Bergen) also known as Alexander Lange Kielland, Alexander L.Kielland, A. Kjelland, Alexander Kjelland or Kielland, Alexander L. was a Norwegian novelist.
Kielland is known for his realistic and witty portrayal of the Norwegian middle class in his novels and short stories. He was a member of Norway's literary movement, the Four Greats, along with Henrik Ibsen, Jonas Lie and Bjornstjerne Bjornson.
Kielland began his literary career as a poet, but it was his first novel, "Garman and Worse" (1880) that brought him critical acclaim. He continued to write novels, including "Gift" (1883), "Skipper Worse" (1882) and "Giftas" (1891) as well as numerous short stories.
In addition to his literary accomplishments, Kielland was also involved in politics, serving as a member of the Storting (Norway's parliament) from 1889 to 1891. He was a vocal advocate for social justice and was particularly concerned with the plight of the working class.
Kielland died in 1906 at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy as one of Norway's most important literary figures.
In addition to his literary and political pursuits, Alexander Kielland also had a successful career in the shipping industry. He was the owner of a shipping company and worked as a shipbroker in London for several years.
Kielland's writing often tackled social issues such as the growing economic inequality in Norway, the exploitation of workers, and the traditional gender roles of the time. He was known for his sharp wit and satirical tone, which added a unique dimension to his works.
Kielland's influence on Norwegian literature can still be felt today, as his works continue to be widely read and studied. Many literary critics consider him to be one of the pioneers of the Norwegian realist movement, which sought to accurately depict everyday life and social issues in their works.
Kielland's upbringing was privileged as he was born into a wealthy merchant family. His father was a successful merchant and politician. Despite his affluent background in Stavanger, Kielland was intellectually curious and had a strong desire to travel and experience different cultures. He spent several years in France, where he learned the language and developed a deep love and appreciation for French literature. He was also interested in the works of Charles Dickens and Henry Fielding, who influenced his writing style.
Aside from his literary and political pursuits, Kielland was also an advocate for education. He believed that education was vital in promoting social progress and worked tirelessly to establish libraries and schools in his hometown of Stavanger. In recognition of his contributions to education, a high school in Stavanger was named after him.
Kielland's personal life was marked by tragedy. He suffered the loss of several family members, including his wife, who died in 1899. He retreated from public life and gradually withdrew from society, eventually moving to Bergen where he lived in seclusion until his death in 1906.
Despite the challenges he faced, Kielland's literary legacy lives on. His works continue to be studied and admired for their insights into Norwegian society and their timeless themes of social justice and equality.
Read more about Alexander Kielland on Wikipedia »
Ragnar Larsen
Ragnar Larsen (January 7, 1925 Oslo-January 14, 1982) was a Norwegian personality.
He was a well-known writer and journalist. Larsen began his career in the sports section of the daily newspaper, Arbeiderbladet, in the 1950s. Later, he became a prominent journalist and author who covered a wide variety of topics from politics to sports, culture, and society.
Larsen was an outspoken figure and was known for his strong opinions and critical views on various issues. He was also a skillful writer, and several of his books became bestsellers in Norway.
Aside from his professional life, Larsen was active in many organizations and social causes. Throughout his life, he was an advocate for workers' rights and political reform. He was also a supporter of the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.
Larsen's legacy in Norway is significant, and he remains a prominent figure in Norwegian journalism and literature.
In addition to his career as a journalist and writer, Ragnar Larsen was also an accomplished translator. He translated many famous works of literature from English, including works by Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway, into Norwegian. Larsen's skills as a translator were highly regarded, and he received several awards and accolades for his work.
Larsen was also a passionate traveler and adventurer. He often traveled to exotic locations, and his experiences in these places informed much of his writing. He also had a love of sailing and spent much of his free time on the water.
Despite his success, Larsen struggled with personal demons throughout his life. He battled alcoholism and depression, and these struggles ultimately led to his premature death at the age of 57. However, his contributions to Norwegian literature and journalism are still remembered and celebrated today.
Larsen's notable books include "The Night Before the Revolution," a book documenting the events leading up to the Russian Revolution, and "The Third World War," which was a fictionalized account of a hypothetical World War III. He also wrote several biographies, including a book about the famous Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen.Larsen's impact on Norwegian society extended beyond his writing and activism. He was also a popular media figure and appeared regularly on television as a commentator and host. His charisma and wit made him a beloved figure in Norwegian popular culture, and his influence can still be felt in modern Norwegian media.Today, Larsen is remembered as a trailblazer in Norwegian journalism and literature. His work has inspired generations of writers and journalists, and his legacy continues to shape the way Norwegians think about politics, culture, and society.
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Grete Waitz
Grete Waitz (October 1, 1953 Oslo-April 19, 2011 Oslo) also known as Grete Andersen or Grete Waitz-Andersen was a Norwegian track and field athlete.
Grete Waitz was known for her achievements in long-distance running, particularly in the marathon. She set a world record in her debut marathon in New York City in 1978, and went on to win the race nine times, making her one of the most successful runners in the event's history. Waitz also won the London Marathon twice, and won a silver medal in the marathon at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Outside of running, Waitz was a philanthropist and worked as a special advisor to the United Nations on sport for development and peace. She was also involved in designing running shoes and apparel for the company ASICS. In recognition of her contributions to athletics and society as a whole, Waitz was awarded numerous honors, including being inducted into the International Olympic Committee's Hall of Fame in 2012.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Grete Waitz was an advocate for women's rights in sports, and helped to promote and expand opportunities for women to participate in distance running. She was a role model for many aspiring female athletes, and her success inspired countless women around the world to take up running as a sport. Waitz was also involved in charitable work, and helped to raise funds for cancer research and treatment. She founded the Grete Waitz Run for Women, a charity race that was held annually in New York City, and which has since expanded to other cities around the world. In recognition of her contributions to athletics and society as a whole, Waitz was awarded numerous honors, including the Norwegian Order of St. Olav and the Abebe Bikila Award from the New York Road Runners Club. She remained active in sports and fitness throughout her life, and continued to inspire others with her positive attitude and dedication to health and wellness.
Waitz began her athletic career as a middle-distance runner, winning a silver medal in the 1,500 meters at the 1972 European Championships. She then shifted her focus to longer distances, and quickly established herself as one of the best runners in the world. In addition to her successes in the New York City and London Marathons, Waitz also won gold medals in the marathon at the World Championships in Athletics in 1983 and 1987. She retired from competitive running in 1991, but remained active in promoting the sport and encouraging young athletes.
Waitz was also known for her gracious and sportsmanlike demeanor, and was widely respected for her integrity and commitment to fair play. She was a mentor and role model to many young athletes, and was known for her kindness and generosity both on and off the track.
In addition to her work with the United Nations and ASICS, Waitz was a board member of the International Special Olympics, and was involved in various other charitable organizations. She also wrote several books on running and fitness, including "On The Run: Training With Champions of the Long Distance Running Boom" and "Running With Grete: My Story".
Waitz's legacy continues to inspire runners around the world, and she remains a beloved figure in the running community. In 2013, the Norwegian government established the Grete Waitz Award to recognize individuals and organizations that promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles.
She died in cancer.
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Svein Kvia
Svein Kvia (September 27, 1947 Stavanger-February 2, 2005) was a Norwegian personality.
During his life, Kvia was a journalist, television personality, and comedian. He worked as a journalist for the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) for many years, covering a wide range of topics including culture, music, and sports. In addition to his work as a journalist, Kvia was also a well-known television personality in Norway. He hosted several popular television shows, including "Vorspiel med Kvia" and "Lørdanstimen", which focused on music and entertainment.
Kvia was also an accomplished comedian, known for his quick wit and sharp humor. He performed regularly at comedy clubs and festivals throughout Norway, and his humor was loved by many. In addition, he was an avid football fan and a supporter of his local team, Viking FK.
Throughout his life, Kvia was known for his kindness, humor, and passion for life. His death was a great loss to the Norwegian community, and he continues to be remembered as a beloved and talented personality.
Kvia's career in journalism began in the early 1970s, where he worked as a sports journalist for the Stavanger Aftenblad newspaper. He then went on to work for NRK, where he hosted several radio shows before transitioning to television. Kvia was known for his ability to engage his audience, whether he was covering a music festival or interviewing a sports icon like O.J. Simpson. During his career, Kvia won several awards for his contributions to Norwegian media, including the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation's "Honorary Award" in 2003. In addition to his work as a journalist and comedian, Kvia was also a respected author. He wrote several books, including a biography of musician Bruce Springsteen. Today, Kvia is remembered as a legendary figure in Norwegian media and culture, whose humor and talent left a lasting impact on his country.
Kvia's impact on Norwegian media went beyond just his work as a journalist and entertainer. He was also instrumental in promoting the use of the Norwegian language on television and radio, advocating for the preservation of the country's linguistic heritage. Kvia was a strong advocate for the use of dialects and regional accents in media, believing it was important to reflect the country's diversity and promote cultural understanding. His efforts helped pave the way for greater language diversity on Norwegian television and radio.
Outside of his professional life, Kvia was a devoted family man. He was married and had two children. He was also an active member of his local community, volunteering his time and talents to a range of charitable causes. In recognition of his service, Kvia was awarded the King's Medal of Merit in Gold, one of Norway's highest honors.
To this day, Kvia is remembered as a beloved and influential figure in Norwegian media and culture. His work continues to inspire new generations of journalists, entertainers, and comedians in Norway and beyond.
He died as a result of brain tumor.
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Ragnar Skancke
Ragnar Skancke (November 9, 1890 Ås, Akershus-August 28, 1948 Akershus Fortress) was a Norwegian electrical engineer.
Ragnar Skancke was an active member of the Norwegian resistance movement during World War II. He was involved in sabotage operations against the German occupying forces and was eventually arrested by the Gestapo in 1943. Skancke was sentenced to death for his actions and was executed by firing squad at the Akershus Fortress in Oslo. He is remembered for his bravery and sacrifice in the fight against Nazi oppression in Norway. Skancke's legacy lives on through his contributions to the resistance movement and his dedication to the liberation of his homeland.
In addition to his involvement in sabotage operations, Skancke also played a key role in establishing a secret radio communication network for the resistance movement. He used his electrical engineering skills to construct radio transmitters and receivers that were necessary for communicating with the Allies. Skancke's expertise was essential in maintaining the secrecy of the network, which allowed resistance fighters to transmit intelligence and coordinate attacks against the Germans.
Before the war, Skancke worked for the Norwegian Telegraph and Telephone Company and was involved in the development of Norway's telephone and telegraph systems. He also made significant contributions to the design of Norway's first electromechanical telephone exchange.
Skancke's bravery and sacrifice during World War II were recognized posthumously when he was awarded the War Cross with Sword, Norway's highest military honor. Today, he is remembered as a hero and a symbol of resistance against tyranny and oppression.
Skancke's legacy continued to inspire generations of Norwegians to fight for freedom and stand up against injustice. In 1949, a monument was erected at the site of his execution at the Akershus Fortress, commemorating his sacrifice for his country. In addition, in 1950, the Norwegian Telegraph Museum established the Ragnar Skancke Memorial Fund to finance research and public education in the field of telecommunications. Skancke's contribution to the development of Norway's telecommunication systems and his role in the resistance movement provided a strong foundation for the future of the country. His story has been retold in books, films, and documentaries, ensuring that his sacrifice is never forgotten. Today, Skancke stands as a symbol of courage and dedication to the cause of liberty and justice, inspiring people around the world to take action against oppression and tyranny.
He died caused by execution by firing squad.
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Trond Kristoffersen
Trond Kristoffersen (August 13, 1956 Hammerfest-August 29, 2013) was a Norwegian personality.
He was best known for his work as a TV host and journalist, having hosted several popular programs and interviews on Norwegian television. Kristoffersen began his career in the media industry as a radio host before transitioning to television in the 1980s, where he quickly gained a reputation for his charismatic and engaging personality. He was a popular figure in Norwegian television throughout the 1990s and 2000s, known for his extensive coverage of current events and his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. In addition to his work in the media, Kristoffersen was also an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed spending his free time hiking, skiing, and fishing. He passed away at the age of 57 after a battle with cancer.
During his career, Kristoffersen hosted many notable programs, including the chat show "Tronds Hjem" and the political debate show "Holmgang". He was a respected journalist and interviewer, known for asking thought-provoking questions and pushing his guests to give honest and insightful answers. Kristoffersen was also an accomplished author, having written several books about his travels and experiences in nature. His passion for the outdoors was reflected in his work as a television presenter, where he often covered topics related to nature and conservation. In addition to his media work, Kristoffersen was also actively involved in charity work, particularly in the areas of cancer research and awareness. He was widely respected and beloved in Norway for his contributions to the media industry and his commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Kristoffersen was born and raised in Hammerfest, a small town in the northernmost part of Norway. After completing his education, he began his career in the media industry as a radio host for NRK Finnmark, the local branch of Norway's national broadcasting company. He quickly made a name for himself as a talented and engaging host, and in 1985 he transitioned to television when he was offered the opportunity to host the popular children's show "Halvsju".
From there, Kristoffersen went on to work on a wide variety of television programs, including news and current events shows, reality programming, and entertainment formats. He was particularly well-known for his work as the host of the popular chat show "Tronds Hjem", which ran for ten seasons and featured interviews with a wide variety of celebrities and public figures. He also hosted the political debate show "Holmgang" for several years, and his incisive questioning and thoughtful analysis made him a respected voice in Norwegian political discourse.
Outside of his work in the media industry, Kristoffersen was known for his love of nature and the outdoors. He was an accomplished hunter, fisherman, and hiker, and his experiences in the wilderness informed much of his writing and broadcasting work. He authored several books about his travels and adventures, including "Turmål" and "I Norges Villmark", which showcased his love for Norway's natural beauty.
Throughout his career, Kristoffersen remained committed to using his platform to make a positive impact on society. He was actively involved in promoting cancer research and awareness, and he frequently participated in events and fundraisers to support the cause. He was also a strong advocate for environmental conservation, and he used his television programs and writing to raise awareness about issues related to climate change and sustainability.
Kristoffersen's passing in 2013 was deeply mourned by his many fans and colleagues throughout Norway. He is remembered as a talented and passionate broadcaster, a committed philanthropist, and a beloved figure in Norwegian media and society.
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Sonja Henie
Sonja Henie (April 8, 1912 Oslo-October 12, 1969 Oslo) a.k.a. Pavlova of the Ice was a Norwegian figure skater and actor.
Henie was a three-time Olympic champion in ladies' singles figure skating (1928, 1932, 1936) and a ten-time World champion (1927-1936). After retiring from competition, she went on to have a successful career in Hollywood, appearing in a series of musical films in the 1930s and 1940s. She was also a successful entrepreneur, developing her own line of ice skates and founding the Henie-Onstad Art Center near Oslo. Her legacy lives on in the sport of figure skating, as she revolutionized the sport with her innovative and athletic style.
Henie grew up in a wealthy family, and her parents encouraged her to pursue figure skating from a very young age. She won her first competition at the age of six and went on to dominate the sport throughout her career. Her performances were known for their technical precision and artistic flair, and she introduced many new moves and techniques that became standard in figure skating.
After retiring from competition, Henie turned her attention to Hollywood and quickly became a major star. Her films were enormously popular, and she was one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. She also continued to skate professionally, performing in shows and exhibitions around the world.
In addition to her entertainment career, Henie was also a successful entrepreneur. She developed a line of ice skates that were popular with amateur and professional skaters alike, and she founded the Henie-Onstad Art Center with her husband. The Center is now one of Norway's leading contemporary art museums.
Henie's legacy in the world of figure skating is immense. She helped to transform the sport from a leisure activity into a competitive and athletic pursuit, and she inspired countless young skaters to take up the sport. Her impact on the entertainment industry and business world was equally impressive, and she remains an inspiration to people around the world.
Henie's impact on figure skating was not only limited to her technical innovations but also her fashion sense. She was known for her glamorous costumes and introduced the tradition of wearing short skirts and white skating boots. This fashion statement became a standard in figure skating, and skaters today still wear similar outfits. Henie's success as a Hollywood actress also helped to popularize figure skating around the world, and she became an ambassador for the sport. Her life story was also adapted into a musical titled "Pavlova of the Ice," which debuted in 1963. Despite her success, Henie's life was not without controversy. She was accused of being a Nazi sympathizer during World War II because of her association with several high-ranking Nazi officials. However, it was never proven, and Henie always maintained that she was apolitical.
She died as a result of leukemia.
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Ole Evinrude
Ole Evinrude (April 19, 1877 Gjøvik-July 12, 1934 Milwaukee) a.k.a. Ole Evenrudstuen was a Norwegian inventor. He had one child, Ralph Evinrude.
Ole Evinrude is best known for inventing the first outboard motor in 1909, revolutionizing the boating industry. He immigrated to the United States in 1882 with his parents and siblings, settling in Cambridge, Wisconsin. Evinrude started his career as a machinist at his father's machine shop but eventually focused on inventing. He founded the Evinrude Motor Company in 1907, which became a major manufacturer of outboard motors. Evinrude's legacy lives on through the company, which is still a leader in the marine industry, and through the Ole Evinrude Scholarship, which supports engineering students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Evinrude's invention of the outboard motor led to huge growth in the popularity of recreational boating, making it more accessible and affordable to a wider range of people. His innovation also had important applications during World War I, as outboard motors based on his design were used extensively by the United States Navy. Evinrude was a skilled designer and engineer beyond his work on outboard motors, also developing other significant inventions such as a steerable skid for airplanes and a system for cooling airplane engines. He sold the Evinrude Motor Company to Outboard Marine Corporation in 1936, two years after his death from a heart attack. While his name may not be as familiar as that of some other inventors, Ole Evinrude's contributions to the development of modern transportation have had a lasting impact.
In addition to his success as an inventor, Ole Evinrude was also a skilled marketer. He recognized the potential of using endorsements and demonstrations to promote his motors and hired famous fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts to showcase his products. Evinrude's innovative marketing strategies helped to establish his company as a leader in the industry.
Evinrude's legacy as an inventor and entrepreneur has been recognized by the National Inventors Hall of Fame, which inducted him in 2007. He is also commemorated by a historical marker in Cambridge, Wisconsin, where he grew up and began his career as a machinist. Today, Evinrude motors are used all over the world and are still considered to be among the best in the industry.
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Ernst Diesen
Ernst Diesen (April 6, 1913 Oslo-November 14, 1970 Oslo) was a Norwegian actor and theatre director. He had one child, Andreas Diesen.
Diesen was best known for his work in Norwegian theatre and film industry during the 1940s to 1960s. He began his theatrical career as an actor in 1935, and eventually became a director in 1945. In the 1950s and 1960s, he directed several productions including "Hamlet", "Othello" and "The Threepenny Opera".
In addition to his work in the theatre, Diesen appeared in several Norwegian films, including "Bastard", "A Man Came from the Future", and "The Master and His Servants". He was also a successful radio and television personality, hosting several programs during his career.
Diesen was a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Norwegian Cultural Council's honorary award in 1959, and the Saint Olav's Order in 1967 for his contributions to Norwegian theatre and culture. He passed away in Oslo in 1970, leaving behind a legacy as one of Norway's most beloved and respected actors and directors.
Diesen was born into a family of artists and musicians- his father was a composer and his mother was an artist. Despite his family's artistic background, Diesen's parents initially discouraged him from pursuing a career in the arts, but he ultimately followed his passion and joined a theatre troupe in Oslo. His talent for acting and directing quickly became apparent, and he soon gained recognition as one of Norway's most promising young talents.
In the early years of his career, Diesen primarily focused on acting, but eventually transitioned into directing in the mid-1940s. He quickly established himself as a talented and innovative director, renowned for his unique interpretations of classic plays and operas. His modernized production of "The Threepenny Opera" in particular drew praise for its provocative and daring approach to the material.
Diesen's success as a theatre director led to numerous opportunities in film, where he quickly became one of Norway's most sought-after actors. He appeared in a variety of roles ranging from romantic leads to villains, and quickly became popular with audiences for his naturalistic and nuanced performances.
Despite his success, Diesen remained humble and dedicated to his craft until his death in 1970. He is remembered as one of Norway's most beloved cultural figures, and his contributions to the country's theatre and film industries continue to be celebrated to this day.
In addition to his work in theatre and film, Diesen was also a prolific radio and television personality. He hosted several popular radio programs, including "Smil og tårer" ("Smiles and Tears") and "Vi bygger opp" ("We Build Up"), which brought him even more widespread recognition and popularity throughout Norway. He also presented a number of television programs, including "Norgesglasset" ("The Norway Glass"), a documentary series highlighting Norway's natural and cultural heritage.
Diesen was deeply committed to promoting Norwegian culture and arts, and was an active member of several cultural organizations throughout his life. He served as chairman of the Norwegian Theatre Directors Association and was also a key figure in the founding of the Norwegian Film Institute in the mid-1960s.
Despite his achievements and accolades, Diesen remained down-to-earth and dedicated to his craft throughout his career. He was known for his warmth, generosity, and sense of humor, and was widely beloved by colleagues and audiences alike. Today, he is remembered as one of Norway's greatest cultural figures and an enduring icon of Norwegian theatre and film.
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Jens Gunderssen
Jens Gunderssen (May 19, 1912 Drammen-December 11, 1969 Oslo) also known as Jens Gundersen was a Norwegian actor and singer-songwriter.
Jens Gunderssen started his career as an actor in 1935 when he made his stage debut as a student in the play "The Merchant of Venice" by William Shakespeare at the Central Theater in Oslo. He later appeared in several plays, films and television shows, most notably in the film "Fjols til fjells" (1957) and the TV series "Den Store barnedåpen" (1961).
Apart from his acting career, Jens Gunderssen was also a talented singer and songwriter. He released several popular recordings during the 1940s and 1950s, including the song "En liten pike i lave sko" (A Little Girl in Low Shoes), which became a hit in Norway and is still considered one of the most popular Norwegian songs of all time.
In addition to his work as an actor and musician, Jens Gunderssen was a highly respected voice actor and dubbed the voices of several Hollywood stars in Norwegian versions of their films. He received the King's Medal of Merit in gold for his services to Norwegian culture in 1966, just three years before his untimely death at the age of 57.
Jens Gunderssen appeared in over 30 films throughout his acting career, which spanned 34 years. Some of his notable performances include his role in the comedy film "Vi har det jo hyggelig" (1950) and the drama film "Jakten" (1959). Gunderssen also had a successful career in radio, where he hosted his own show and often performed his own songs. He was known for his charming personality and witty humor, which made him a beloved figure in Norwegian entertainment. In addition to his artistic pursuits, Gunderssen was also involved in politics and served as a member of the Oslo City Council for the Conservative Party from 1951 to 1955. His legacy is still remembered today, with his music and films being celebrated as important contributions to Norwegian culture.
One of Jens Gunderssen's most popular recordings, "En liten pike i lave sko," has been covered by several artists over the years and is still considered a classic in Norwegian music. In addition to his career as an actor and musician, Gunderssen was also a writer and penned several plays and screenplays throughout his life. He was married to actress and singer Lalla Carlsen from 1942 until their divorce in 1959. Together, they had two children, including son Erik Øksnes, who also became an actor. Despite his success and popularity, Gunderssen was known for his modesty and down-to-earth personality. He passed away in 1969 following a heart attack, leaving behind a rich legacy in Norwegian entertainment.
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Oskar Braaten
Oskar Braaten (November 25, 1881 Oslo-July 17, 1939 Trysil) was a Norwegian writer, novelist and playwright.
He was known for his vivid and realistic depictions of working-class life in Oslo during the early 20th century. Braaten's most famous work is the novel "Mannsfolk," which tells the story of a group of working-class men and their struggle to make a living. He also wrote plays such as "To levende og en død" which was later adapted into a film.
Braaten was involved in politics and was a member of the Norwegian Labour Party. He used his writing to support the socialist cause and often championed the rights of the working-class. Braaten was also a co-founder of the Workers' Theatre in Oslo, which focused on producing plays about working-class life.
Unfortunately, Braaten's life was cut short when he died at the age of 57. Despite his short career, he had a lasting impact on Norwegian literature and is remembered for his ability to capture the struggles of everyday people.
Braaten was born in the working-class neighborhood of Gamlebyen in Oslo. He was the son of a laborer and a charwoman. Despite his humble beginnings, he showed an early talent for writing and started publishing his work in local newspapers and magazines. In 1915, he published his first book, "Fant," which was a collection of short stories about the people and places of Oslo. This book established him as a writer with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the working-class.
In addition to his writing, Braaten was an active member of the Norwegian Labour Party. He campaigned for better working conditions and was involved in several strikes during his lifetime. He also wrote articles and speeches for the party, using his skills as a writer to help promote the cause of socialism.
Braaten's work was controversial at the time, as it often dealt with taboo subjects such as sex and poverty. He was criticized by some for portraying working-class people in a negative light, but others praised him for his realistic and honest portrayals of life in Oslo. Today, he is recognized as a major figure in Norwegian literature and is celebrated for his contributions to the portrayal of working-class life in his country.
Braaten was also an advocate for women's rights and wrote about the challenges faced by women in the working-class. He believed that women should have the same rights and opportunities as men, and wrote several plays and stories that focused on the struggles of working-class women. Braaten's support for women's rights was ahead of his time and helped pave the way for gender equality in Norway.
In addition to writing, Braaten also worked as a journalist and editor for several newspapers and magazines. He used his position to promote socialist ideas and advocate for the working-class. He also wrote about politics, culture, and society, offering his insights and opinions to the public.
Despite his success as a writer and activist, Braaten faced several challenges throughout his life. He struggled with alcoholism, which affected his health and relationships. He also faced financial difficulties, and at times had to sell his own furniture to make ends meet.
Braaten's legacy has continued long after his death. His novels and plays are still celebrated in Norway and have been translated into several languages. The Workers' Theatre, which he helped found, is still in operation to this day. Braaten's work remains an important part of Norwegian literature, and his commitment to social justice continues to inspire new generations of writers and activists.
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Per Kvist
Per Kvist (April 4, 1890 Overhalla-May 23, 1947 Oslo) a.k.a. Vidar Wexelsen was a Norwegian actor, entertainer, writer, singer and cabaret artist.
Per Kvist was born in Overhalla, Norway in 1890. He began his career as an actor and entertainer in the early 1900s, performing in theaters all across Norway. In addition to his work on stage, he also wrote and performed his own music in various cabarets and nightclubs.
Throughout his career, Kvist became known for his wit and charm, and was a beloved figure in the Norwegian entertainment industry. He was particularly well-known for his talents as a singer, and his recordings of popular Norwegian songs remain beloved by many to this day.
During World War II, Kvist's work took on a more political tone as he openly opposed the Nazi occupation of Norway. He used his performances to spread messages of resistance, and was one of the most prominent cultural figures to openly resist the occupation.
Kvist died in Oslo in 1947, but his legacy as an actor, entertainer, and political activist lives on. He is remembered as a beloved figure in Norwegian entertainment history, and is still celebrated for his many contributions to the country's cultural heritage.
Kvist's contribution to Norwegian entertainment industry cannot be overstated. He was one of the founding members of the Norwegian Actors' Equity Association and was a stalwart of the cabaret scene. Over the course of his career, he acted in several films and authored numerous books, including collections of songs and poetry. However, it was his music that garnered him the most attention. Known colloquially as "The King of Norwegian Songs," Kvist's performances of traditional folk tunes such as "Ja, vi elsker dette landet" became incredibly popular with audiences.
Kvist's resistance work during the Nazi occupation of Norway was a defining moment in his career. He was vocal in his condemnation of the Fascist regime and used his performances to critique and satirize the occupation. Although he faced persecution from the authorities, his work inspired numerous other cultural figures to join the resistance movement. After the war, his contribution to Norway's freedom struggle was recognized by the Norwegian government, which awarded him the King's Medal for Courage in the Cause of Freedom.
Today, Kvist is remembered not just for his talents as a performer but also for his courage and fortitude in fighting for what he believed in. He remains an inspiration to many in Norway and is celebrated as one of the country's greatest cultural icons.
In addition to his work as an actor and entertainer, Per Kvist was also a prolific writer. He authored several books, including "Cabaret Viser og Revy Tekster" (Cabaret Songs and Revue Texts) and "Löiten-bræmninger og andre Rim" (Löiten-Bramming and Other Rhymes). He was known for his clever wordplay and satirical wit, and his writing often reflected his political views.
Kvist's career was not without its controversies. He was known for his unconventional lifestyle, which included multiple marriages and dalliances with both men and women. However, in a time when homosexuality was still criminalized in Norway, he was unapologetic about his sexuality and lived his life on his own terms.
Despite these controversies, Per Kvist remains a beloved figure in Norwegian entertainment history. His contributions to theater, music, and literature have had a lasting impact on Norwegian culture, and his resistance work during World War II served as a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice.
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