Alexandre de Rhodes
French missionary and linguist
Served as a Jesuit missionary in Vietnam, where significant contributions to the introduction and establishment of the Latin alphabet for the Vietnamese language occurred. Published the first Vietnamese dictionary and a grammar book, which laid the foundation for modern Vietnamese orthography. Worked extensively with Vietnamese language and culture, deeply influencing the development of written Vietnamese.
Developed the Latin-based Vietnamese alphabet
Published the first Vietnamese dictionary
Authored a grammar book for Vietnamese language
Other People Born on March 15th
William Lamb
British Prime Minister and politician
Born
March 15th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1848 177 years ago — 69 years old
Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1835 to 1841. Played a significant role in Victorian politics as 2nd Viscount Melbourne. Held positions including Home Secretary and leader of the Whig party. Provided leadership during a period of reform and social change, promoting issues such as civil liberties and parliamentary reform.
Continue ReadingSong Zhenzhong
Revolutionary martyr and child internee
Born
March 15th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1949 76 years ago — 8 years old
Born in 1941, involvement in revolutionary activities began during childhood. Subject to internment as a child due to political circumstances. Later joined movements advocating for change, contributing to revolutionary efforts. Remembered for dedication to the cause and sacrifices made for the movement.
Continue ReadingKarl Davydov
Russian cellist and composer
Born
March 15th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1889 136 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent cellist and composer, contributed significantly to the development of cello repertoire during the 19th century. Served as the professor of cello at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, influencing a generation of musicians. Composed numerous works for cello, chamber ensembles, and orchestras, demonstrating a blend of technical proficiency and lyrical quality. Engaged in performances across Europe, enhancing the visibility of cello as a solo instrument in classical music.
Continue ReadingLiberty Hyde Bailey
Botanist, co-founder of horticultural science
Born
March 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1954 72 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1858, significant contributions were made to the development of horticulture in the United States. Co-founded the American Society for Horticultural Science, which facilitated the exchange of scientific knowledge among horticulturists. Authored numerous books on botany and horticulture, emphasizing practical applications of plant science. Served as a professor at Cornell University, where research and education in agriculture flourished. Established the first textbook in horticulture, shaping educational standards in the field and influencing generations of students and professionals in botany.
Continue ReadingEduard Strauss
Composer and conductor of waltzes
Born
March 15th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1916 109 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1835, a composer and conductor from Austria, primarily associated with the genre of waltz music. Contributed significantly to the family tradition of waltz composition established by Johann Strauss I and Johann Strauss II. Conducted the Strauss orchestras in numerous performances throughout Europe. Composed several popular waltzes and polkas, solidifying a reputation within the genre. Held a prominent position in the Viennese music scene.
Continue ReadingChristian Michelsen
Norwegian politician, 1st Prime Minister
Born
March 15th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1925 101 years ago — 68 years old
A significant figure in Norwegian history, held the position of the first Prime Minister of Norway from 1905 to 1907 following the dissolution of the union with Sweden. Instrumental in establishing Norway as an independent nation, his leadership was crucial during a pivotal time in the country's development. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, had a successful career in business, particularly in shipping and trade, which contributed to a profound understanding of the economic landscape of Norway. Advocated for national interests and played a major role in shaping Norway's foreign policy in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 5th
Abdelwahab Meddeb
Tunisian-French author and poet
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 68 years old
An author, poet, and scholar engaged with themes of identity, culture, and the modern Arab world. Received education in Tunisia and France, enriching the literary landscape with a distinctive voice. Contributed significantly to literature with a rich blend of prose and poetry, exploring the complexities of the Mediterranean socio-political climate. Authored works in both French and Arabic, highlighting the nuances of intercultural dialogue. Selected works include the novel 'Talismano' and contributions to various literary journals and anthologies.
Continue ReadingEddie Harris
Jazz saxophonist and bandleader
Born
October 20th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1996 29 years ago — 62 years old
An American saxophonist contributed significantly to jazz music. Active from the 1960s, introduced innovative techniques such as the use of electronic effects on the saxophone. Gained recognition with the album 'Elevator to the Gallows' and the hit single 'Listen Here'. Collaborated with prominent artists and bands, influencing a generation of musicians. Continued performing and recording until the 1990s, showcasing versatility across jazz styles.
Continue ReadingArndt Pekurinen
Finnish activist
Born
August 29th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1941 84 years ago — 36 years old
Active in the Finnish labor movement, involved in advocating for workers' rights and social justice. Engaged in various campaigns to improve living conditions for laborers in Finland during the early to mid-20th century. Participated in the political landscape of Finland, contributing to social and political discourse.
Continue ReadingSoma Edirisinghe
Sri Lankan businesswoman and philanthropist
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent business figure in Sri Lanka, significant contributions made to various industries through leadership roles in several enterprises. Established a foundation focused on charitable work, assisting disadvantaged communities. Engaged in initiatives to improve education and healthcare access, which demonstrated a commitment to societal welfare. Active in multiple organizations aimed at empowering women in business and promoting social change.
Continue ReadingJames Clerk Maxwell
Physicist known for the electromagnetic theory
Born
June 13th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1879 146 years ago — 48 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics and mathematics during the 19th century. Formulated the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation, bringing together electricity, magnetism, and light as manifestations of the same phenomenon. Developed Maxwell's equations, which describe how electric and magnetic fields interact and propagate through space. Also made contributions to thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, laying groundwork for modern physics. Worked in academia and published extensively, influencing future generations of scientists.
Continue ReadingBülent Ecevit
Turkish politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 28th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 16th Prime Minister of Turkey, leading the country during critical periods. Ecevit was involved in Turkish politics for several decades, navigating various roles including those of opposition leader and party leader. His leadership during the Cyprus crisis in 1974 and emphasis on social democracy shaped his political career. Ecevit also contributed to journalism and academia, focusing on issues of social justice and democracy.
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