Agathon Meurman
Finnish politician and journalist

Born
October 9th, 1826
198 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1909
116 years ago — 82 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Finland
Links & References
A significant figure in Finnish politics and journalism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Played a crucial role in the development of Finnish national identity and language policy. Served in the Finnish Parliament, advocating for the rights and interests of Finnish speakers. Contributed to various newspapers, promoting progressive and nationalistic ideas through editorials and articles. Actively engaged in discussions about Finland's status within the Russian Empire, emphasizing autonomy and self-determination.
Served in the Finnish Parliament
Contributed significantly to Finnish journalism
Other People Born on October 9th
Nikolai Bukharin
A prominent figure in the early Soviet Union, played a significant role in the Bolshevik Revolution. Served as a leader of the Communist Party and wrote extensively on Marxist theory and policy. Held the position of editor for the newspaper Pravda, shaping public discourse. Key advocate for the New Economic Policy, aiming to revive the economy in the aftermath of the Civil War. In later years, faced opposition within the party and was ultimately executed during the Great Purge.
Continue ReadingDavid Cameron
Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2010 to 2016. Led the Conservative Party during a coalition government with the Liberal Democrats until 2015. Implemented significant governmental reforms, including austerity measures following the 2008 financial crisis. Announced a referendum on the United Kingdom's membership in the European Union, which resulted in a vote to leave. Resigned following the referendum outcome, influencing the subsequent political landscape in the UK.
Continue ReadingGordon J. Humphrey
Served as a combat pilot in the Vietnam War. Elected to the U.S. Senate representing New Hampshire, serving from 1979 to 1990. During Senate tenure, focused on several key issues including national security and veterans' affairs. Active in politics post-Senate, engaging in various conservative causes and initiatives.
Continue ReadingSimon Fairweather
Competed in archery and represented Australia at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Won a gold medal in the men's individual archery event, making a significant achievement in Australian sports history. Continued to participate in various international competitions throughout the career, contributing to the development and popularity of archery in Australia.
Continue ReadingSteve Ovett
A successful middle-distance runner, achieved prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Excelled in the 800 meters and 1500 meters disciplines, winning a gold medal in the 800 meters at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Also secured numerous victories at prestigious events, including the European Championships and Commonwealth Games. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement from competitive running, providing insights and commentary on athletic events.
Continue ReadingJill Ker Conway
Born in 1934, a historian and author focused on women's history and personal narrative. Wrote 'The Road from Coorain', an autobiographical account reflecting on life in Australia and themes of identity. Held several academic positions, including in the United States, and contributed to discussions on history and feminism. Served as the first female president of Smith College in Massachusetts, where significant advancement of women’s education took place under her leadership. Her work emphasized the importance of personal experience in understanding historical events.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 17th
Giovanni Aldini
An Italian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of electricity and galvanism. Developed techniques for applying electrical currents to living tissues. Conducted public demonstrations showcasing the effects of galvanism, including the revival of the apparently dead. Pioneered research in bioelectricity, laying foundational work for future exploration in the field. Served as a professor at the University of Bologna and made notable contributions to the understanding of sensory organs through experimental science.
Continue ReadingRutherford B. Hayes
Served as the 19th President of the United States from 1877 to 1881. Prior to presidency, held the position of Governor of Ohio. Oversaw the end of Reconstruction, withdrawing federal troops from the South. Focused on civil service reform and attempted to address issues of corruption in government. Prior to his political career, served as a Union general during the Civil War, earning an exemplary reputation for leadership.
Continue ReadingBetty Smith
An American author and playwright, contributed significantly to literature through the exploration of themes such as poverty, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The novel A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, published in 1943, achieved critical acclaim and has been a staple in American literature classes. The narrative details the coming-of-age of a young girl in Brooklyn, focusing on her experiences and challenges during the early 20th century. The work was celebrated for its profound portrayal of family dynamics and the socioeconomic hardships faced by immigrants at the time. Other works include the novel Joy in the Morning, which further delves into personal and familial struggles. Smith also wrote plays that showcased her literary talents beyond novels.
Continue ReadingAndré de Montbard
Served as the fifth Grand Master of the Knights Templar during the 12th century. Oversaw the Order's military activities amidst the Crusades. Worked to strengthen Templar influence and operations in the Holy Land, contributing to the defense of Christian territories and the protection of pilgrims. His leadership coincided with significant events in Crusader history, including conflicts against Muslim forces. Montbard’s tenure involved both administrative and military responsibilities.
Continue ReadingGeorge Bancroft
An influential historian and politician, served as the 17th United States Secretary of the Navy. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Naval Academy at Annapolis. Authored a multi-volume history of the United States, contributing greatly to the field of American historical scholarship. Held the position of Secretary of the Navy under President James K. Polk and was instrumental in the Navy's expansion during the Mexican-American War.
Continue ReadingFerdinand IV
Ruled as Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1859 to 1860. Oversaw the transition of the duchy through significant political changes during the Italian unification. Administered reforms in various sectors, including education and infrastructure, which laid the groundwork for future developments in the region. Emphasized cultural patronage, supporting the arts and sciences throughout his reign.
Continue Reading