Al-Ma'mun
Abbasid caliph and scholar

Born
September 14th, 768
1256 years ago
Died
August 9th, 833
1191 years ago — 64 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Iraq
Links & References
Served as the seventh Abbasid caliph from 813 to 833. Ruled during a period marked by cultural and scientific advancements. Established the Bayt al-Hikma, or House of Wisdom, in Baghdad, which became a leading center for knowledge and learning. Patronized scholars and poets, facilitating the translation of Greek and Persian works into Arabic. His reign saw significant developments in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine, contributing to the Islamic Golden Age.
Founded the House of Wisdom in Baghdad
Promoted the translation of Greek texts
Supported scholars like Al-Khwarizmi
Other People Born on September 14th
Paolo Gregoletto
Born in 1985, a bass player and songwriter achieved recognition as a key member of the heavy metal band Trivium. The band released several successful albums, including 'Ascendancy', 'Shogun', and 'In Waves'. The collaboration with the band saw extensive touring and performances at major music festivals. Contributed to the composition and recording of Trivium's music, helping shape their distinctive sound within the metal genre.
Continue ReadingMae Boren Axton
Contributed significantly to the music industry as a singer-songwriter. Composed numerous songs, including 'Heartbreak Hotel,' which became a hit for Elvis Presley. Worked as a music promoter and nurtured the careers of various artists. Played a vital role in the country music genre, both in songwriting and performance.
Continue ReadingKay Medford
An actress and singer contributed significantly to film and theatre. Gained recognition for the role of ‘Rose’ in the Broadway musical ‘Funny Girl’. Performed in various productions, showcasing vocal talent and acting skills. Appeared in films such as ‘The Music Man’ and ‘The Great Race’, further establishing a career in entertainment. Received nominations for various awards acknowledging performances in both film and stage. Later transitioned to television, with notable appearances in shows that reflected her musical prowess.
Continue ReadingFreeman Mbowe
Played a significant role in Tanzanian politics, serving as the chairman of the Chadema party. Engaged in advocating for democracy and human rights in Tanzania. Served in parliament, contributing to discussions on governance and social issues. Arrested in 2021 during a crackdown on political opposition, highlighting the tensions in the political landscape.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Ingrosso
Began a music career at a young age, releasing debut singles that achieved commercial success. Gained wider recognition by participating in the Swedish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, where a performance led to a strong showing in 2018. Released multiple singles and an album that charted well. Established a following due to engaging performances and catchy pop melodies.
Continue ReadingAnton Mahnič
Bishop, philosopher, and theologian contributed significantly to Slovenian culture and Catholic Church thought. Focused on pastoral work and education, he emphasized the importance of spirituality and moral teachings. Played a vital role in the development of the Slovene national identity through religious education. Established institutions and supported initiatives that shaped the church in Slovenia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 9th
Judith Rossner
An American author achieved recognition through novels that explored complex themes of relationships and identity. 'Looking for Mr. Goodbar', published in 1975, captured public attention with its portrayal of a young woman's search for love and connection in New York City, resonating with contemporary social issues. The novel was later adapted into a film in 1977, further extending its reach. Other notable works include 'August' and 'Emmeline', each reflecting distinct narratives and character studies that engaged readers. Rossner's writing often intertwined personal experiences with broader societal questions.
Continue ReadingC. F. Powell
This physicist contributed significantly to the field of particle physics. Developed the photographic emulsion technique that enabled the discovery of many subatomic particles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions, influencing the education of future physicists. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1950 for contributions to the development of the photographic method for studying nuclear processes and the meson theory.
Continue ReadingGregory Hines
Born in 1946, this individual gained prominence as a multifaceted performer specializing in dance and acting. Contributed to the revival of tap dancing in the 1980s and 1990s. Performed in various television shows and films, showcasing exceptional talent. Starred in the Broadway musical 'Eubie!' and earned a Tony Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical. Featured in the film 'White Nights' alongside Mikhail Baryshnikov, which highlighted extraordinary dance sequences. Continued to influence the arts until passing in 2003.
Continue ReadingHugh
Served as a prominent military leader during the Crusades, holding the title of Count of Brienne. Engaged in various campaigns aimed at securing and expanding Christian territories in the Holy Land. Participated in the Eighth Crusade and made contributions to several military endeavors in the region. Involved in the defense and administration of lands in France and was influential in the feudal system of that era.
Continue ReadingThomas Cajetan
A prominent figure in the Renaissance, contributed significantly to scholastic theology and philosophy. Served as a cardinal and led the Dominican order in the 16th century. Engaged in debates regarding Reformation ideas, emphasizing the importance of faith and reason. Authored numerous works, critically analyzing the thoughts of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas. His commentary on Aquinas remains a touchstone in the study of theology.
Continue ReadingDmitri Shostakovich
A prominent Russian composer and pianist, acclaimed for innovative and powerful compositions. Shostakovich gained international recognition during the Soviet era, particularly for his symphonies and string quartets. He navigated a complicated relationship with the Soviet government, which influenced his work. Major compositions include the Symphony No. 5, which was a response to government criticism, and Symphony No. 7, also known as the Leningrad Symphony, written during World War II to commemorate the Siege of Leningrad. Shostakovich’s music often reflected the turbulence of his time, combining elements of tradition and modernism while conveying deep emotional and political themes.
Continue Reading