Antoine Étienne de Tousard
French General and Engineer
Served as a general in the French Army during the late 18th century. Contributed to military engineering projects and served in significant campaigns, including the American Revolutionary War. Worked on fortifications and the design of military structures. Authored texts on military engineering and tactics, influencing the field.
Served as a general in the American Revolutionary War
Contributed to fortification designs
Authored military engineering texts
Other People Born on December 9th
John Dobson
Astronomer and author of telescope design
Born
December 9th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 226 years old
A Chinese-American astronomer focused on promoting amateur astronomy and public outreach. Developed the Dobsonian telescope, which simplified telescope design and construction for amateur astronomers. Founded the San Francisco Sidewalk Astronomers, making stargazing accessible to the public, and encouraged the use of telescopes for recreational astronomy. Authored several books on the subject of astronomy, contributing to the education of many enthusiasts in the field.
Continue ReadingSimone Fontecchio
Italian basketball player with EuroLeague success
Born
December 9th, 1995 30 years ago
Professional basketball player, born in Italy, primarily plays as a small forward. Started career in Italy before playing in the EuroLeague. Achieved recognition in the Italian national team and played in international tournaments. Currently competes in the NBA, joining the Utah Jazz in 2022. Known for contributions to both club and national teams, playing a significant role in various competitions.
Continue ReadingJames Rainwater
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1986 39 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent physicist and academic, contributions included advancements in nuclear physics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1975 for research on the structure of nuclei. Worked at Columbia University, influencing generations of students and furthering the field of physics through both teaching and research.
Continue ReadingMark McMorris
Canadian Snowboarder, X Games Champion
Born
December 9th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional snowboarder from Canada, has excelled in slopestyle and big air events. Achieved significant success at the X Games, winning multiple gold medals. Competed in the Winter Olympics, winning bronze medals in 2014 and 2018. Overcame a serious injury in 2017, returning to competitive snowboarding shortly after. Regarded as one of the top snowboarders in the world.
Continue ReadingDonald Byrd
Trumpet player and jazz bandleader
Born
December 9th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, this trumpet player emerged in the 1950s and contributed significantly to the genre. Active from the bebop era, collaborated with numerous artists and bands, showcasing a unique style that blended hard bop with elements of funk and soul. Recorded numerous albums throughout a prolific career, with 'A New Perspective' being one of the notable works. Served as a professor at various institutions, influencing future generations of musicians. Continued to perform until the later years of life, maintaining a presence in the jazz community until passing in 2013.
Continue ReadingKyle Connor
Ice hockey player, Winnipeg Jets forward
Born
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago
An American ice hockey player spent significant time as a forward for the Winnipeg Jets in the National Hockey League (NHL). After being drafted 17th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, achieved notable success in his rookie season. Contributed to the Jets' playoff runs, making a strong impact in postseason competitions. Achieved career milestones, including multiple 30-goal seasons and showcasing exceptional scoring ability.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 15th
Sidney Godolphin
English politician and statesman
Born
June 15th, 1645 380 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1712 313 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a prominent English politician during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Appointed as First Lord of the Treasury and held the office of Lord High Treasurer. Played a significant role in the Whig political party and was instrumental in the administration during the War of the Spanish Succession. Worked to coordinate military efforts and manage finances for England during a critical period. Held significant positions under multiple monarchs, influencing legislative and financial matters within the kingdom.
Continue ReadingThomas Wolfe
American novelist, Look Homeward, Angel
Born
October 3rd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1938 87 years ago — 37 years old
A prominent American novelist, this figure explored the human experience through lyrical prose and expansive narratives. Born in 1900, the individual gained recognition for capturing the essence of early 20th-century America. The debut novel, 'Look Homeward, Angel,' published in 1929, showcased a semi-autobiographical approach that drew upon personal experiences. Additionally, works like 'Of Time and the River' further established literary credentials, often reflecting deep philosophical insights. Throughout a brief yet impactful career, this author contributed significantly to the American literary landscape until passing in 1938.
Continue ReadingLouis Rasminsky
Canadian economist and banker
Born
February 1st, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 90 years old
An influential economist and banker in Canada, contributed to the development of monetary policy and financial institutions. Served as the Governor of the Bank of Canada from 1961 to 1973. Played a key role in shaping Canada’s economic landscape during a period of significant change and growth in the global economy. Engaged in numerous efforts to stabilize the Canadian dollar and control inflation. Participated in various international economic forums, promoting Canada's interests on the global stage.
Continue ReadingEwostatewos
Ethiopian monk and saint
Born
July 15th, 1273 752 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1352 673 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1273, this Ethiopian monk played a significant role in the religious life of Ethiopia during the 14th century. He founded a monastic community that emphasized asceticism and spiritual practice, attracting many followers. His teachings focused on the importance of prayer and moral living. The saint's life and works contributed to the spread of Christianity in Ethiopia, particularly through the establishment of monasteries and churches aligned with his spiritual vision.
Continue ReadingIsambard Kingdom Brunel
British engineer known for railway design
Born
April 9th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1859 166 years ago — 53 years old
An English architect and engineer, played a pivotal role in the development of the Great Western Railway. Designed significant structures, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Thames Tunnel. Innovated shipbuilding with the creation of the SS Great Britain, the first iron steamship to cross the Atlantic. Contributed to advancements in engineering techniques and materials during the Industrial Revolution.
Continue ReadingPino Puglisi
Italian priest and martyr for faith
Born
September 15th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1993 32 years ago — 56 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1960, dedicated efforts towards social justice and education in Palermo, Italy. Worked in underprivileged neighborhoods, emphasizing the importance of faith in addressing issues of crime and poverty. Targeted by mafia due to outspoken stance against organized crime. Assassinated in 1993, recognized as a martyr for his commitment to the Gospel and the welfare of the community.
Continue Reading