Adolf Bötticher
German journalist and historian
A prominent journalist and historian contributed significantly to German historical scholarship. Focused on the history of art, played a pivotal role in the establishment of art history as a respected discipline in Germany. Worked extensively on methodical approaches to historical research and analysis, publishing various articles and books that influenced future generations of historians and art scholars. Engaged in discussions on historical methodology and educational reform, promoting the importance of history in understanding cultural heritage.
Authored significant texts on art history
Promoted historical methodology in scholarship
Other People Born on December 12th
Ed Koch
American politician and New York City Mayor
Born
December 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 105th Mayor of New York City from 1978 to 1989. Led the city during a period of economic hardship and implemented policies aimed at revitalizing the city. Advocated for fiscal responsibility and urban development. Known for the catchphrase 'How am I doing?', which became synonymous with his leadership style and public persona. After leaving office, continued to be active in public life, offering commentary on New York City politics and broader issues.
Continue ReadingJohn Salmons
Basketball player and NBA athlete
Born
December 12th, 1979 46 years ago
Played professional basketball in the NBA from 2002 to 2015. Played for several teams including the Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings, and Chicago Bulls. Achieved career averages of 10.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game over 13 seasons. Notable for contributing to playoff runs, especially during time with the Chicago Bulls.
Continue ReadingHenry Wells
Businessman, co-founder of Wells Fargo
Born
December 12th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
1878 147 years ago — 73 years old
A businessman co-founded Wells Fargo and American Express in the mid-19th century. Focused on providing banking services and expanding financial systems, helped transform the landscape of American finance. Was instrumental in developing express mail services, allowing for faster communication and commercial transactions across the growing nation.
Continue ReadingEdvard Munch
Norwegian painter, 'The Scream' creator
Born
December 12th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1944 81 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in the Expressionist movement, the painter and illustrator focused on emotional experiences rather than physical reality. His most famous work, 'The Scream', exemplifies the exploration of anxiety and existential dread. This piece has become one of the most iconic images in the history of art. Munch's work often delved into themes of love, anxiety, and death, deeply influenced by his personal experiences and tragedies. He produced a variety of paintings, prints, and other artworks throughout his career, showcasing a distinct style characterized by bold colors and dynamic forms.
Continue ReadingOrlando Hudson
Baseball player, 2004 Gold Glove Award
Born
December 12th, 1977 48 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a second baseman from 2002 to 2014. Teams included the Montreal Expos, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago White Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, and San Diego Padres. Contributed to multiple playoff appearances and earned recognition for defensive skills. Achieved the Gold Glove Award in 2004, indicating excellence in fielding. Career statistics include a batting average of .273 with more than 1,000 hits during tenure.
Continue ReadingNate Clements
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
December 12th, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) from 2001 to 2015. Started career with the Buffalo Bills, where significant contributions were made over four seasons. Later signed with the San Francisco 49ers, achieving Pro Bowl selections and winning Super Bowl XLVII. Concluded career with the Cincinnati Bengals, showcasing defensive skills and leadership.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 9th
Jacob Lawrence
Painter recognized for migration series
Born
September 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2000 25 years ago — 82 years old
An American painter and educator, this artist gained prominence through vivid depictions of African American life and history. Achieving recognition during the Harlem Renaissance, he developed a unique style that combined narrative and abstraction. Lawrence's most significant work, the Migration Series, consists of 60 panels portraying the migration of African Americans from the rural South to urban centers in the North. This series reflected social themes and historical narratives, making it a pivotal point in American art. Later in life, he taught at several prestigious institutions and continued to create art that explored cultural identity and the African American experience.
Continue ReadingChevalier de Saint-Georges
Caribbean-French violinist and composer
Born
December 25th, 1745 279 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1799 226 years ago — 53 years old
Born in the French Caribbean, a prominent violinist, composer, and conductor, became influential in classical music during the 18th century. Raised in France, developed a successful career in Paris, where gained recognition for exceptional violin performance and compositions. Worked as a conductor for the Concert des Amateurs, an important orchestra in France. Contributed to the repertoire of classical music with notable works, including symphonies and quartets. Continued to perform and compose until the late 18th century, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.
Continue ReadingColumba
Irish missionary and founder of Iona
Born
December 7th, 521 1504 years ago
Died
June 9th, 597 1428 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in early Irish Christianity, established a monastic community on the island of Iona. Contributed to the spread of Christianity throughout Scotland and founded several churches. Played a critical role in the development of Irish monasticism and manuscript production. Remembered as a prominent saint in the Christian tradition.
Continue ReadingAdolf Busch
German violinist and composer
Born
August 8th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1952 73 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1891, this individual became a prominent violinist and composer, contributing significantly to the field of classical music. This musician co-founded the Busch Quartet, which gained recognition for its performances and recordings of string quartets. Additionally, involvement in the formation of the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie showcased commitment to chamber music. The individual’s compositions include sonatas and concertos that are celebrated in the classical repertoire.
Continue ReadingWilliam Lilly
Astrologer, author of 'Christian Astrology'
Born
May 1st, 1602 423 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1681 344 years ago — 79 years old
Born in England, a prominent astrologer and author emerged during the 17th century. Gained recognition through the publication of 'Christian Astrology' in 1647, which became a foundational text in the field of astrology. He also produced almanacs, achieving significant popularity among the public. His work combined astrology with religion, reflecting the cultural beliefs of the time. In addition to astrology, engaged in a number of legal disputes, advocating for the practice of astrology in a society increasingly skeptical of the discipline. Lilly's writings contributed to the popularity of astrology in England and influenced future practitioners in the field.
Continue ReadingBruno Bartoletti
Italian conductor and opera director
Born
June 10th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent conductor and opera director, this individual was particularly influential in the world of opera. Conducted major operatic works including Puccini's 'La Bohème' and Verdi's 'Aida'. Served as the principal conductor at the Teatro Massimo in Palermo and at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Renowned for bringing to life both classic and contemporary works with precision and passion.
Continue Reading