Alvin C. York
American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War I. Achieved fame for leading an assault against German machine gun nests in the Argonne Forest, resulting in significant enemy casualties. The successful operation occurred on October 8, 1918, during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. His bravery and leadership earned the Medal of Honor, awarded by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. Post-war, engaged in various humanitarian efforts, including the establishment of a school in Pall Mall, Tennessee.
Leading an assault at the Meuse-Argonne Offensive
Receiving the Medal of Honor in 1919
Other People Born on December 13th
Laura Hodges
Australian basketball player, Opals member
Born
December 13th, 1983 42 years ago
Played professional basketball in Australia and internationally. Competed for the Australian national team, the Opals, participating in multiple FIBA World Championships and Olympic Games. Played for club teams including the Australian WNBL teams and earned recognition for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingPanagiotis Kanellopoulos
Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
December 13th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1986 39 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 138th Prime Minister of Greece during the early 1960s. Played a significant role in Greek politics and was active during a period marked by considerable political turmoil. Contributed to several key reforms and policies aimed at modernizing Greek society. Engaged in philosophical writings that explored various societal issues and government practices. His political career included involvement in multiple governments and discussions surrounding Greece's socio-economic challenges.
Continue ReadingKenneth Patchen
American poet and painter
Born
December 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1911, a significant figure in American literature and art, worked as both a poet and a painter. Developed a unique style that blended personal emotions with social commentary. Published numerous poetry collections including 'The Journal of Albion Moonlight' and 'The Teeth of the Lion'. Engaged with the Beats and influenced the counterculture of the 1960s. Innovated in mixed media, creating visual poetry that combined text and art.
Continue ReadingTalcott Parsons
Sociologist and author of The Structure of Social Action
Born
December 13th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of sociology, particularly through the development of social action theory. Emphasized the importance of understanding social structures and their functions. Advocated for a systems perspective to analyze the relationship between society and individual behavior. Parsons' work influenced the study of modern sociology and shaped theoretical frameworks used in subsequent research.
Continue ReadingRicky Nolasco
Professional baseball pitcher, MLB star
Born
December 13th, 1982 43 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher played in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily for the Florida Marlins. Debuted in 2006 and excelled as a starting pitcher, noted for a strong strikeout ability. Achieved double-digit wins in multiple seasons and earned a reputation for durability on the mound. Contributed significantly to teams with consistent performances during regular seasons and playoff runs.
Continue ReadingYongzheng Emperor
Chinese Emperor during the Qing Dynasty
Born
December 13th, 1678 347 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1735 290 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1678, the Yongzheng Emperor reigned from 1722 to 1735 as the third emperor of the Qing dynasty. His rule followed that of his father, the Kangxi Emperor. The Yongzheng Emperor implemented significant administrative reforms aimed at improving government efficiency and reducing corruption. He focused on consolidating imperial power and enhancing the central authority. The emperor also invested in infrastructure projects, such as irrigation systems and roads, which promoted agriculture and trade. The Yongzheng Emperor was a patron of the arts, and his reign is noted for contributions to literature and painting. His efforts to ensure stability laid the groundwork for continued prosperity during the Qianlong Emperor’s rule.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 2nd
Antoine Deparcieux
Mathematician and engineer
Born
October 28th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1768 257 years ago — 64 years old
Contributions included work in probability, geometry, and the study of demographics. Developed methods for life tables, enhancing understanding of mortality rates and demographic trends. His explorations influenced future statistical methods, particularly in actuarial science. Served as a professor at the Collège Royal and published significant mathematical papers.
Continue ReadingBarbara McClintock
Geneticist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 16th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1902, a pioneering American geneticist. Developed the theory of transposable elements and conducted extensive research on corn genetics. This work contributed to the understanding of genetic regulation and the mechanisms of inheritance. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983 for discoveries related to mobile genetic elements, marking a significant milestone in genetics research.
Continue ReadingJames Darren
Actor known for 'Gidget' and 'T.J. Hooker'
Born
June 8th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor and singer, gained prominence during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in the television series 'Gidget' as Moondoggie and later portrayed Lieutenant Jim Corrigan in the series 'T.J. Hooker'. Achieved success in music with hits such as 'Goodbye Cruel World'. Also appeared in films like 'The Guns of Navarone' and 'The Golden Spoon'. In addition to acting, Darren has enjoyed a career in music, releasing albums that resonate with his film and television audiences.
Continue ReadingPaul Scoon
Governor-General of Grenada
Born
July 4th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the second Governor-General of Grenada from 1978 to 1992. Held office during a significant period in Grenadian history, including the U.S. invasion in 1983 which aimed to restore order following a coup. Actively participated in discussions about constitutional and legislative reforms, contributing to the development of Grenadian governance. Engaged in various diplomatic duties both locally and internationally, representing Grenada on numerous occasions.
Continue ReadingHenri Rousseau
French painter; The Dream
Born
May 21st, 1844 182 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1910 115 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1844, this painter was a self-taught artist who developed a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and imaginative subjects. Originally working as a customs officer, painting became a significant pursuit during his free time. The artist's works often depicted lush jungles and fantastical scenes, despite having never traveled to the tropics. His paintings received minimal recognition during his lifetime, but posthumously gained significant acclaim and a prominent place in the art world. Notable works include 'The Dream' and 'The Sleeping Gypsy'.
Continue ReadingHenry Austin Dobson
English poet and author known for poetry
Born
January 18th, 1840 186 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1921 104 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1840, a prominent poet and author contributed significantly to English literature. An advocate of metrical poetry, engaged in literary circles of the 19th century. Authored works that reflected themes of nostalgia and romanticism. Contributed to various periodicals, gained recognition for refined verse and wit. Later works included biographical and critical studies of fellow writers.
Continue Reading