Augustus Le Plongeon

Historian and photographer of Maya culture

Augustus Le Plongeon - Thinkers & Philosophers born May 4th, 1825
Born
Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the understanding of Maya civilization through extensive archaeological research and photography. Conducted critical studies of Mayan ruins, particularly in Yucatán, Mexico, and argued that the Maya were the descendants of ancient Egyptians. Published several works, including 'Sacred Mysteries Among the Mayas and the Quiches' which presented theories on the connections between ancient civilizations. Assisted in documenting the architectural features and hieroglyphics found at various sites. Established a reputation as an early advocate for the preservation of archaeological sites.

Published 'Sacred Mysteries Among the Mayas and the Quiches'

Conducted archaeological studies in Yucatán

Photographed and documented Maya ruins

Other People Born on May 4th

Horace Mann

Educator and politician; education reformer
Born
May 4th, 1796 230 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1859 166 years ago — 63 years old

Contributions to education reform include advocating for public schooling and establishing teacher training programs. Served as the first Secretary of the Massachusetts Board of Education, promoting the concept of universal public education. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of normal schools for teacher education. Published influential reports that highlighted the importance of professional training for teachers.

Continue Reading

Richard Graves

English minister and author of 'The Spiritual Quixote'
Born
May 4th, 1715 311 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1804 221 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1715, this English minister and author contributed significantly to religious literature through writings that addressed moral and spiritual themes. His most notable work, 'The Spiritual Quixote', satirized contemporary religious practices and explored the nature of faith. The text remains a reference for discussions on 18th-century religious thought and literature. Besides this prominent publication, contributions to various periodicals and engagement with academic circles reflected interest in theology and ethics.

Continue Reading

Keith Haring

American Painter and Activist
Born
May 4th, 1958 68 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1990 36 years ago — 31 years old

An artist emerged in the early 1980s, celebrated for distinctive graffiti-inspired artwork characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors. Haring utilized public spaces, especially subway stations, to share messages about social issues, including AIDS awareness, anti-apartheid, and LGBTQ+ rights. Established the Pop Shop in New York City to promote accessible art as a means of cultural expression. Advocated for children's issues and created murals worldwide, solidifying a legacy of art as a tool for activism. Haring's work remains influential in contemporary art and social movements.

Continue Reading

Audrey Hepburn

British actress and humanitarian
Born
May 4th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1993 33 years ago — 63 years old

Achieved prominence as an actress in the 1950s and 1960s, featured in films such as 'Breakfast at Tiffany's', 'Roman Holiday', and 'My Fair Lady'. Transitioned to humanitarian work later in life, focusing on children's rights and health as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Actively participated in missions to various countries suffering from poverty and war, utilizing fame to support international efforts.

Continue Reading

George Will

American journalist and author
Born
May 4th, 1941 85 years ago

A prominent journalist and author with a focus on political commentary. Writings have appeared in major publications, including The Washington Post. An author of multiple books analyzing American politics and culture, including 'Men at Work: The Craft of Baseball.' Has contributed to discussions surrounding conservative philosophy and the workings of democracy.

Continue Reading

Frederic Edwin Church

American painter famous for landscape art
Born
May 4th, 1826 200 years ago
Died
1900 126 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the Hudson River School, this painter specialized in large-scale landscape paintings that emphasized the beauty of nature. His works often featured dramatic lighting and detailed depictions of exotic locales. The artist studied under Thomas Cole and adopted a similar style that combined realism with romanticism. Major works include 'The Heart of the Andes' and 'Cotopaxi', which showcased a mastery of color and composition. His artwork was instrumental in promoting American landscape painting in the mid-19th century.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 13th

Maimonides

Spanish rabbi and philosopher
Born
March 30th, 1135 891 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1204 821 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent medieval rabbi and philosopher, this figure made significant contributions to Jewish law and philosophy. Born in Córdoba, Spain, in 1135, he later moved to Morocco and then Egypt. His major works include 'Mishneh Torah,' a comprehensive code of Jewish law, and 'Guide for the Perplexed,' which addresses the relationship between religion and philosophy. His writings sought to reconcile religious tradition with rational thought.

Continue Reading

Gustave Le Bon

French psychologist and sociologist
Born
1840 186 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1931 94 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed significantly to social psychology and sociology. Developed the concept of the collective mind, which explored how individuals in groups can behave differently than when alone. Authored 'The Crowd: A Study of the Popular Mind', which analyzed mob behavior and social influence. His work laid the groundwork for modern crowd psychology and social sciences.

Continue Reading

Ella Baker

Civil Rights Activist and Leader
Born
December 13th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1986 39 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1903, significant contributions to the civil rights movement occurred throughout the mid-20th century. Assisted in the founding of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960, emphasizing grassroots organizing and leadership development. Worked with organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Advocated for collective decision-making and empowerment within the African American community.

Continue Reading

Wassily Kandinsky

Abstract painter and art theorist
Born
December 16th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1944 81 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

Josef Kramer

Concentration camp commandant
Born
1906 120 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 80 years ago — 39 years old

Commanded the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp during World War II. Oversaw the operations of the camp from 1944 to 1945. Played a key role in the administration of Nazi concentration camp policies. Captured by British forces after the camp's liberation and tried for war crimes in 1945.

Continue Reading

Irma Grese

Concentration camp guard during WWII
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 80 years ago — 22 years old

Worked as a guard at Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen concentration camps during World War II. Grese joined the SS and was involved in the administration of the camps, characterized by harsh treatment of detainees. Captured by British troops in 1945, faced trial for war crimes, which resulted in a death sentence. Executed in December 1945.

Continue Reading