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

Victor Oladipo

Basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
May 4th, 1992 34 years ago

Professional basketball player began collegiate basketball at the University of Indiana. Drafted second overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic. Played for the Magic and later joined the Oklahoma City Thunder, where performance improved significantly. Achieved NBA All-Star status while playing for the Indiana Pacers in 2018. Sustained injuries impacted subsequent seasons but continued to play in the league, showcasing skills as a guard.

Continue Reading

Brianne Jenner

Ice hockey player, 2014 Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 4th, 1991 35 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player, competed in the National Women's Hockey League (NWHL) and for the Canadian national team. Achieved recognition for contributions to the national team during the Winter Olympics. Helped Canada secure a gold medal at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. Played for the University of Maine and was part of several championship teams, showcasing talent both in collegiate and national competitions.

Continue Reading

Rory McIlroy

Professional golfer and four-time major champion
Born
May 4th, 1989 37 years ago

Born in Northern Ireland, a professional golfer with significant achievements in the sport, including winning four major championships. Achievements include victories at the U.S. Open in 2011, the PGA Championship in 2012 and 2014, and The Open Championship in 2014. Notable for a distinctive playing style and consistency on the course, holding the record for various tournament wins and accolades. Also contributed to the growth of golf in Ireland and internationally through various philanthropic efforts. Maintained a high ranking in the Official World Golf Ranking, with periods spent as the world number one.

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

Princess Katherine of Greece and Denmark

Royalty and humanitarian work
Born
May 4th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1913, Princess Katherine of Greece and Denmark contributed significantly to humanitarian efforts. Engaged in various charitable activities throughout her life, she focused on health and education projects. The princess played a crucial role in the establishment of numerous hospitals and welfare organizations. Her commitment to serving those in need garnered respect and admiration from many.

Continue Reading

Jorge Lorenzo

Motorcycle racer, 3-time MotoGP champion
Born
May 4th, 1987 39 years ago

Achieved significant success in motorcycle racing, primarily competing in the MotoGP series. Secured three MotoGP World Championships in 2010, 2012, and 2015 while riding for Yamaha. Concluded a successful career with notable stints at Ducati and Yamaha, amassing multiple Grand Prix victories and podium finishes. Known for technical ability and competitive spirit on the track.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 13th

Pepin I of Aquitaine

Duke of Aquitaine
Died
December 13th, 838 1187 years ago — None years old

Served as Duke of Aquitaine from approximately 814 until death in 838. Ascended to power during a period of political complexity in the Carolingian Empire. Had a significant role in the regional governance under the Frankish monarchy. Engaged in various military campaigns and administrative reforms. Established stronger ties between Aquitaine and the Carolingian dynasty, navigating the challenges of local nobility throughout his rule.

Continue Reading

Reggie Duff

Australian cricketer; Test match player
Born
August 17th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1911 114 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1878, a cricketer represented Australia at the international level. Played in the early years of Test cricket, participating in significant series that helped establish the sport in Australia. Made notable contributions as an opening batsman and was recognized for his aggressive playing style. Competed in several Ashes series, contributing to the team's efforts against England.

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

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

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

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