13th Dalai Lama

Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer

13th Dalai Lama - Tibetan spiritual leader and reformer
Born

February 12th, 1876
149 years ago

Died

December 17th, 1933
91 years ago — 57 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Tibet

Links & References

The 13th Dalai Lama served as the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and the political leader of Tibet from 1895 until 1933. In 1904, faced with British military intervention, he fled to India, returning to Tibet in 1909. His reign was marked by significant reforms in Tibetan society, including modernization efforts and the establishment of a centralized administration. Advocated for Tibetan autonomy amidst growing tensions with China and sought international support for Tibetan independence. He also emphasized education and health reforms.

Fled to India during the British invasion in 1904

Implemented social and political reforms in Tibet

Promoted Tibetan independence and autonomy

Played a key role in the introduction of modern education

Other People Born on February 12th

Ray Kurzweil

Computer Scientist and Futurist
Born
February 12th, 1948 77 years ago

A prominent computer scientist and engineer contributed significantly to fields such as artificial intelligence and technology. Developed the first text-to-speech synthesizer and created software for scanning music and producing machine-generated music. Authored several influential books on technology, futurism, and the singularity, including 'The Age of Spiritual Machines' and 'The Singularity Is Near'. Worked with companies to advance machine learning and natural language processing.

Continue Reading

Todd Frazier

Professional baseball player, 2015 All-Star
Born
February 12th, 1986 39 years ago

Played in Major League Baseball for several teams including the Cincinnati Reds, Chicago White Sox, and New York Mets. Achieved significant success during the 2015 season, earning an All-Star selection and winning the Home Run Derby. Featured prominently in the 2016 World Series, contributing to team efforts in key games. Concluded a notable career with multiple achievements.

Continue Reading

James Scott

American composer of ragtime music
Born
February 12th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1938 87 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1885, a composer emerged as a significant figure in the ragtime music genre. Contributions included popular compositions, primarily for piano, which showcased intricate melodies and syncopated rhythms. Achievements included the publication of 'Frog Legs Rag' and 'Grace and Beauty,' both of which became influential in the ragtime movement. By performing and composing, shaped the sound of the early 20th century American music scene.

Continue Reading

Steve Hackett

Guitarist and producer from England
Born
February 12th, 1950 75 years ago

A prominent singer-songwriter and guitarist, gained recognition as a member of the progressive rock band Genesis during the early 1970s. Contributed to several iconic albums, including 'Selling England by the Pound' and 'The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.' After leaving Genesis, pursued a successful solo career, releasing numerous albums that showcased a blend of rock, classical, and acoustic elements. Notable for virtuosic guitar skills and innovative songwriting, Hackett has influenced many musicians across genres.

Continue Reading

Raymond Mhlaba

South African anti-apartheid activist
Born
February 12th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 85 years old

Participated in the anti-apartheid movement and was a member of the African National Congress. Imprisoned on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela for nearly 25 years. Played a significant role in the armed struggle against apartheid as part of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the ANC's military wing. After the end of apartheid, served as the Premier of the Eastern Cape from 1994 to 1996, contributing to post-apartheid governance and policy.

Continue Reading

Arsenio Hall

Talk show host and comedian
Born
February 12th, 1956 69 years ago

Began a career in entertainment as a comedian and gained prominence with the launch of a well-received talk show. The late-night talk show, which aired from 1989 to 1994, featured celebrity interviews and musical performances, showcasing a range of guests and cultural issues. Returned to television with a revival of the talk show format in 2013. Hall's work contributed to mainstreaming various cultural dialogues in popular media.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 17th

Simón Bolívar

Venezuelan military leader and politician
Born
July 24th, 1783 242 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1830 194 years ago — 47 years old

Born in Venezuela, this figure played a crucial role in the Latin American independence movement against Spanish colonial rule. He led military campaigns across several countries, including Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, achieving victories that established independence for those nations. A key advocate for creating a unified Latin America, he also served as the second president of Venezuela. His vision extended to the establishment of a confederate union among the liberated countries, although this idea faced significant challenges.

Continue Reading

Jeremy Bulloch

English actor best known for Star Wars
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2020 4 years ago — 75 years old

An English actor recognized for roles in television and film, gained prominence through the portrayal of Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy. Contributed to the British television landscape with appearances in series such as 'Doctor Who' and 'Robin of Sherwood'. Career spanned several decades, with performances in various genres including drama, science fiction, and action.

Continue Reading

Larry Sherry

Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
July 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2006 18 years ago — 71 years old

A professional baseball player and coach, played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1959 to 1962. Played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1963 World Series victory, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying experience and knowledge of the game to help develop players.

Continue Reading

Homer S. Ferguson

American lawyer and politician
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1982 42 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a judge and U.S. Senator from Michigan. Held the position of senator from 1955 to 1979. Contributed to various legislations during tenure, focusing on civil rights and social welfare. Played a significant role in shaping policies affecting the state and nation. Engaged in legal practice before entering politics, gaining recognition for expertise in law.

Continue Reading

Marc Favreau

Canadian actor and poet
Born
November 9th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2005 19 years ago — 76 years old

A Canadian actor and poet, this individual gained recognition for contributions to the performing arts. Favreau was particularly influential in French-language theatre and became a staple of Quebec's cultural landscape. The artistic career spanned several decades, during which numerous performances in various productions showcased poetic talent. The work engaged audiences and contributed to a vibrant cultural dialogue within the community. Additionally, the actor participated in television and contributed to various media forms, highlighting versatility in artistic expression.

Continue Reading

Igor Kirillov

Russian general with military command
Born
1970 55 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2024 0 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a prominent general in the Russian armed forces, leading significant military operations. Held key positions within strategic command structures. Participated in various military campaigns and was influential in shaping defense policies. Contributed to military doctrine and leadership training within the forces.

Continue Reading