Vincent Van Gogh: The Successful Failure On March 30, 1852, Anna van Gogh and her husband, "The Handsome Pastor," (Theodorus van Gogh) gave birth to their first child. Alas, the child was born dead. The dead child was named Vincent. One year later to the exact day, Anna gave birth to yet another child. Her second child was named after the dead born child, Vincent. Vincent's early loneliness and isolation sprang from his mother. Anna refused to show acceptance or true warmth toward her son Vincent. Throughout Vincent's childhood he only found comfort in nature, the homes of peasants, and his loving younger brother,