Abdurrahman Wahid
Indonesian politician and journalist, 4th President
Served as the 4th President of Indonesia from 1999 to 2001, playing a key role in the transition to democracy after the fall of Suharto. Co-founded the National Awakening Party (PKB) and was a prominent leader of the Nahdlatul Ulama, the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia. Advocated for human rights and religious tolerance, and was involved in various interfaith dialogues. Post-presidency, continued to contribute to Indonesian society through writing and public speaking.
Served as the 4th President of Indonesia
Promoted democracy and human rights in Indonesia
Other People Born on September 7th
Georges-Louis Leclerc
French mathematician and cosmologist
Born
September 7th, 1707 318 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1788 237 years ago — 80 years old
Significant contributions were made to the fields of natural history, mathematics, and cosmology. Authored 'Histoire naturelle', a comprehensive work that detailed various aspects of the natural world, integrating scientific observations with philosophical reflection. Played a crucial role in the discourse on species classification and the evolution of life forms, impacting future studies in biology and ecology. Developed theories on the Earth's history and the concept of species changing over time, anticipating modern evolutionary ideas.
Continue ReadingJennifer Egan
Novelist and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
September 7th, 1962 63 years ago
A prominent American novelist and short story writer, this individual gained significant recognition for works that explore modern life and human connection. The novel 'A Visit from the Goon Squad' won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2011. Other notable works include the novels 'Look at Me' and 'Manhattan Beach', as well as various short stories published in prominent magazines. The narrative style often incorporates elements of fragmented time and varied perspectives, contributing to a unique storytelling approach.
Continue ReadingTom Opacic
Rugby league player, Newcastle Knights
Born
September 7th, 1994 31 years ago
Opacic played as a centre in rugby league, starting his career with the Brisbane Broncos. He made his NRL debut in 2016. After stints with the Broncos, he played for the Parramatta Eels. In 2021, he joined the Newcastle Knights, further establishing his presence in the league. Throughout his career, he exhibited consistent performance on the field.
Continue ReadingKevin Love
NBA Basketball Player, 2016 Champion
Born
September 7th, 1988 37 years ago
A professional basketball player, played for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. Helped the Cavaliers win the 2016 NBA Championship, contributing significantly in the playoffs. Played college basketball for UCLA and was named the Naismith College Player of the Year in 2008. Known for exceptional skill in rebounding and shooting, particularly three-pointers, Love's versatility has made a significant impact on the game. Represented the United States in international competitions, earning a gold medal in the 2012 Olympics.
Continue ReadingW. Earl Brown
Actor in 'Deadwood' and 'Something About Mary'
Born
September 7th, 1963 62 years ago
Born in 1963, a prominent American actor with notable roles in television and film. Achieved recognition for performances in the HBO series 'Deadwood' and the film 'There's Something About Mary'. Worked in various capacities in entertainment, ranging from acting to production.
Continue ReadingLibor Hudáček
Slovakian ice hockey player, Olympic athlete
Born
September 7th, 1990 35 years ago
A Slovakian ice hockey player competed in multiple international tournaments, including the Winter Olympics and IIHF World Championships. Began professional career in the Slovak Extraliga before joining teams in various leagues across Europe and North America. Played as a forward and contributed to team efforts with scoring and playmaking abilities. Participated in the 2014 Winter Olympics and helped Slovakia secure a bronze medal in the 2012 IIHF World Championship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
José Rizal
Filipino journalist and author
Born
June 19th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1896 128 years ago — 35 years old
A leading figure in the Philippine reform movement during the late 19th century, this individual wrote extensively to advocate for social change. His novels, particularly 'Noli Me Tangere' and 'El Filibusterismo', criticized the Spanish colonial government and the Catholic Church's influence in the Philippines. He also promoted education and civic rights and was a key figure in the La Liga Filipina, a progressive organization. His execution in 1896 by the Spanish authorities spurred the Philippine Revolution against colonial rule.
Continue ReadingHan van Meegeren
Painter and art forger
Born
October 10th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 77 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a painter and art forger achieved notoriety during the early to mid-20th century. Initially trained in traditional painting, later shifted focus to forgery. Created a series of forgeries that were passed off as original works by the Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. One of the most significant forgeries, 'Christ and the Woman of Samaria,' led to a high-profile court case after its sale to a Nazi officer. Conviction in the art world followed, marking a controversial chapter in art history. Despite the scandal, continued to influence discussions on authenticity in art.
Continue ReadingIsamu Noguchi
Sculptor and architect of modern landscapes
Born
November 17th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1988 36 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent sculptor and architect, contributed significantly to the field of modern sculpture and landscape design. Studied under renowned artists and incorporated elements from various cultures into work. Established a unique style that blended art and architecture, reflecting a strong connection to nature. The work includes many public sculptures and installations, with a focus on harmony between the built environment and the natural world.
Continue ReadingVikram Sarabhai
Indian physicist and space program founder
Born
August 12th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1971 53 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent Indian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the development of India's space and satellite programs. Played a crucial role in establishing the Indian National Committee for Space Research, which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Instrumental in the launch of the country's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. Actively supported the establishment of institutions in various scientific disciplines and promoted the application of science and technology for the development of India.
Continue ReadingCarl Woese
Microbiologist and biophysicist; discovered archaea
Born
July 15th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2012 12 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to microbial phylogeny and the tree of life. Developed the concept of archaea, a separate domain of life distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes. His work utilized ribosomal RNA sequencing techniques to classify organisms based on genetic material. Published the groundbreaking paper 'The Universal Tree of Life' which reshaped the understanding of evolutionary biology. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and received numerous accolades for research in genetics and microbiology.
Continue ReadingEddie Barlow
Cricketer and coach for South Africa
Born
August 12th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2005 19 years ago — 65 years old
Played international cricket for South Africa from 1960 to 1972. Served as a captain and was noted for his all-round abilities. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to cricket development in South Africa. Coached various teams and was influential in nurturing young talents in the sport. Expanded knowledge of cricket through participation in commentary and analysis.
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