Alain Poher
French politician, President of France
Served as President of France in 1969 and 1974 during transitional periods. Operated as a prominent member of the French Senate and held the position of President of the Senate multiple times. Participated in various governmental roles, contributing to the legislative process throughout his political career. Advocated for European integration and public service reforms while managing regional development.
Served as Acting President of France in 1969
Served as Acting President of France in 1974
President of the French Senate multiple times
Other People Born on April 17th
Henry Erskine
Scottish politician and 10th Earl of Buchan
Born
April 17th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1767 258 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1710, this individual served as the 10th Earl of Buchan. Active in Scottish politics, he participated in notable parliamentary activities during the 18th century. The Earl advocated for various reforms and represented the interests of his constituents in the House of Lords. He held significant influence in local governance and engaged in cultural endeavors, contributing to the preservation of Scottish heritage. His tenure reflected the complexities of the political landscape during this period, particularly in relation to Scotland's position within Great Britain.
Continue ReadingMarguerite Bourgeoys
French-Canadian nun and founder of schools
Born
April 17th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1700 325 years ago — 79 years old
A French-Canadian nun established the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal in the 17th century. This religious community focused on the education of young girls and played a critical role in the development of educational institutions in New France. Additionally, she was involved in missionary work and the spiritual life of the early settlers. Canonized as a saint in 1982, her contributions to education and religious life are commemorated in various institutions in Canada.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich Philipp von Martius
Botanist and explorer of Brazil
Born
April 17th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1868 157 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent botanist and explorer, contributions focused on the flora of Brazil. Studied botany extensively, leading expeditions to collect plant specimens. Worked on the classification and documentation of various plant species. Developed significant works, including 'Flora Brasiliae.' Additionally, served as a naturalist and produced detailed accounts of Brazilian ecology and culture during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingWilliam Holden
American actor in Sunset Boulevard
Born
April 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 63 years old
An accomplished actor emerged in the 1940s, achieving widespread recognition for performances in films such as 'Sunset Boulevard' and 'Stalag 17'. Crafted a career characterized by strong performances in both drama and comedy, earning an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'Stalag 17'. Transitioned from film to television late in career, contributing to various projects in the medium. Remained a prominent figure in Hollywood until the mid-1980s.
Continue ReadingRichard Allen Epstein
American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.
Continue ReadingBuster Williams
Jazz bassist and composer
Born
April 17th, 1942 83 years ago
A prominent jazz bassist and composer, contributions span several decades in the music industry. Early collaborations included work with renowned artists such as McCoy Tyner and Art Davis. Williams became a significant figure in the jazz scene, recognized for his innovative approach to bass playing. He participated in numerous recordings, showcasing his skill and creativity. Notable projects include work on the album 'Crystal Silence' alongside Chick Corea and Gary Burton, which set a standard for jazz fusion.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Ralph Bunche
Diplomat and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 7th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1971 54 years ago — 67 years old
Significant contributions to diplomacy and conflict resolution occurred during the mid-20th century. Played a crucial role in negotiating the 1949 Armistice Agreements between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Became the first African American to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1950 for efforts in mediating peace in the Middle East. Held various academic and governmental positions, including serving as a faculty member at Howard University and as Under-Secretary-General for Special Political Affairs at the United Nations.
Continue ReadingMary Leakey
Archaeologist known for early hominids
Born
February 6th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An archaeologist and anthropologist, significant contributions to the discovery of early hominid fossils were made. Conducted extensive research at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, where the first fossilized footprints of early hominids were discovered. Developed techniques for studying human evolution and excavated several notable prehistoric sites. Authored numerous publications detailing findings in paleoanthropology, influencing the field's development.
Continue ReadingFulton J. Sheen
Archbishop and television personality
Born
May 8th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1979 46 years ago — 84 years old
An American archbishop, played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the mid-20th century. Gained prominence as a television personality, hosting the program 'Life is Worth Living' which aired from 1952 to 1957. Authored numerous books on faith and spirituality that reached a wide audience. Became a prominent figure in religious broadcasting, contributing to the dialogue on social issues from a Catholic perspective. Served as Bishop of Rochester and later as an auxiliary bishop of New York. His work in media helped to modernize the Church's approach to engaging with the public.
Continue ReadingTeofilo Folengo
Italian monk and poet, 'Leccon' creator
Born
November 8th, 1491 534 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1544 481 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1491, a monk and poet contributed significantly to Italian literature during the Renaissance. Folengo is celebrated for creating the macaronic poem 'Orlandino', which combines Italian and Latin languages. His works are characterized by playful language and a critical view of contemporary society. Folengo's literary career began after entering a Benedictine monastery, where he diverged from traditional forms of poetry. He published under the pseudonym Merlin Cocai, gaining attention for innovative poetic styles and humor. His writings influenced later generations of poets, merging serious themes with comic elements.
Continue ReadingRobert Baldwin
Canadian politician and lawyer
Born
May 12th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1858 167 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the third Premier of Canada West from 1848 to 1851. Played a significant role in the introduction of responsible government in Canada. Contributed to the establishment of public education in Canada West. Advocated for civil liberties and democratic reforms.
Continue ReadingPatty Donahue
Singer and member of The Waitresses
Born
March 29th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 40 years old
An American singer gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the band The Waitresses, which emerged in the late 1970s. The music group is well-known for their unique blend of punk and new wave, particularly for their hit single 'I Know What Boys Like'. The Waitresses released several albums during their career, including 'Wasn't Tomorrow Wonderful?' and 'Shake It Up'. After the band's initial success, continued to perform and contribute to various projects in the music industry until the mid-1990s.
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