Alphonse Juin

Algerian-French military general

Alphonse Juin - Algerian-French military general
Born

December 16th, 1888
136 years ago

Died

January 27th, 1967
58 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

France

Links & References

Served as a French general during World War II and the early post-war period. Commanded forces in North Africa and was instrumental in the liberation of Italy. Participated in critical battles, including the Battle of Monte Cassino. Promoted to Marshal of France in 1952. Advocated for military reforms and modernization in the French Armed Forces during a time of significant change.

Commanded French forces at the Battle of Monte Cassino

Promoted to Marshal of France in 1952

Other People Born on December 16th

Wassily Kandinsky

Abstract painter and art theorist
Born
December 16th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1944 80 years ago — 77 years old

An influential painter and theorist, this individual played a key role in the development of abstract art. Initially trained as a lawyer, the pivot to art occurred while residing in Munich. Early works reflected Impressionist and Post-Impressionist influences, but later compositions exhibited a segment of expressive colors and shapes independent of visual references. Authored several important texts, exploring the relationship between color and sound, and the meaning of abstraction. The individual's contributions were pivotal in shaping modern art movements such as Expressionism and Abstract Expressionism.

Continue Reading

Adam Riess

Astrophysicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 16th, 1969 55 years ago

An American astrophysicist and astronomer contributed significantly to the understanding of dark energy and the expansion of the universe. Worked with the Hubble Space Telescope to measure the distance to faraway supernovae, leading to the discovery of the universe's accelerated expansion. This research helped clarify the role of dark energy in the cosmos. Served as a professor at Johns Hopkins University, engaging in teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Continue Reading

Lizzy Mercier Descloux

Musician and singer-songwriter
Born
December 16th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2004 21 years ago — 47 years old

A musician and singer-songwriter from France, gained recognition for pioneering the early '80s new wave and post-punk scenes. Released several albums, including "Press Color" and "Idiosyncrasy," showcasing a fusion of various musical styles and poetic lyrics. Also ventured into writing and painting, reflecting a multifaceted creative career that spanned multiple decades. Contributed to the music industry not only through recordings but also through live performances that captured attention in France and beyond. The work retained cultural relevance well after the artist's passing.

Continue Reading

Leopold I of Belgium

Belgian King and constitutional monarch
Born
December 16th, 1790 234 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1865 159 years ago — 74 years old

Reigned as the first King of the Belgians from 1831 until death in 1865. Ascended the throne following Belgium's independence from the Netherlands. Established a constitutional monarchy, providing stability to the nation during its formative years. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to gain international recognition for Belgium's sovereignty and worked to modernize the country. Oversaw the establishment of various institutions and infrastructures, promoting trade and industry.

Continue Reading

Emperor Manuel III of Trebizond

Byzantine Emperor, last ruler of Trebizond
Born
December 16th, 1364 660 years ago
Died
1417 608 years ago — 53 years old

Ruled as the last Emperor of Trebizond from 1390 until 1426. Oversaw a significant period of decline for the empire due to external pressures from the Ottoman Turks and internal disputes. During the reign, economic difficulties and territorial losses were prominent issues. Engaged in diplomatic efforts with various European states in an attempt to bolster the crumbling empire. The reign ended with the conquest of Trebizond by the Ottomans, which marked the end of the Byzantine Empire.

Continue Reading

Mark Heard

Singer-songwriter and producer
Born
December 16th, 1951 73 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1992 33 years ago — 40 years old

Active as a singer-songwriter and producer, created a distinct blend of folk, rock, and Christian music. Released several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with a focus on intricate lyrics and melodies. Worked with various artists and contributed to the production of several albums in the genre. Recognized for his influence in Christian music and the broader singer-songwriter movement.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 27th

John James Audubon

Ornithologist and painter of birds
Born
April 26th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1851 174 years ago — 65 years old

A French-American ornithologist and painter, recognized for extensive studies of North American birds. Created 'The Birds of America', a groundbreaking collection of bird illustrations that features high-quality, life-sized images of various bird species. The work contributed to the field of ornithology and art, showcasing over 400 species with detailed observations. His artistic approach combined scientific accuracy with aesthetic quality, influencing both art and natural history. Founded the Audubon Society, which promotes conservation of birds and their habitats.

Continue Reading

Carlos Loyzaga

Basketball player and coach in the Philippines
Born
August 29th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2016 9 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent basketball player and coach in the Philippines, Loyzaga played for the Philippine national team and competed in the 1954 FIBA World Championship. He was a key player for the YCO Athletic Club, helping win several championships during his career. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, leading teams in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and contributing to the development of the sport in the country. Loyzaga's influence extended beyond the court, as he dedicated efforts to basketball administration and youth development.

Continue Reading

Stanley Karnow

American journalist and historian
Born
February 4th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old

Worked as a journalist and historian, focusing on significant historical events, particularly relating to the Vietnam War. Authored several books, including "Vietnam: A History," which provided an in-depth look at the conflict from both American and Vietnamese perspectives. Contributed to various publications over decades, gaining recognition for insightful analysis of complex issues.

Continue Reading

Louie Welch

American businessman and mayor of Houston
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 54th Mayor of Houston from 1974 to 1978. During the tenure, focused on urban development and various city improvements. Also was involved in the business community, holding significant positions in local organizations and promoting economic growth. Worked to enhance the city's infrastructure and services to accommodate its growing population.

Continue Reading

R. Venkataraman

Indian politician, 8th President of India
Born
December 4th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2009 16 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 8th President of India from 1987 to 1992. Held various significant positions within the Indian government, including Minister of Defence and Minister of Finance. Contributed to the development of India's economic policies during the late 20th century.

Continue Reading

Gordon B. Hinckley

Religious leader, President of LDS Church
Born
June 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 97 years old

Served as the 15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1995 until 2008. Worked extensively in church leadership roles including as a mission president and a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Played a key role in the construction of temples and the expansion of the church worldwide. Authored several books discussing faith, spirituality, and the church's doctrines.

Continue Reading