B. J. Vorster
South African politician and statesman
Served as the 4th State President of South Africa from 1966 to 1978. Held various ministerial positions prior to presidency, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Police. Focused on the policies of apartheid, emphasizing security and law enforcement. Promoted the interests of the Afrikaner population and supported strong ties with the United States during the Cold War. His administration faced international criticism and economic sanctions due to apartheid policies.
Served as State President from 1966 to 1978
Held the position of Minister of Justice
Implemented policies supporting the apartheid regime
Other People Born on December 13th
Ana Néri
Brazilian nurse and philanthropist
Born
December 13th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1880 145 years ago — 65 years old
A pioneering nurse and philanthropist, contributions to healthcare during the 19th century significantly shaped nursing in Brazil. Established the first nursing school in Brazil, providing formal training for nurses. Dedicated efforts during the War of the Triple Alliance led to the establishment of a field hospital, where organized care for wounded soldiers took place. Advocated for improved medical care and education for women, influencing future generations of healthcare professionals.
Continue ReadingMaximilien de Béthune
Duke of Sully and Prime Minister of France
Born
December 13th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1641 384 years ago — 81 years old
Born into nobility, held significant political influence in France. Served as the Duke of Sully and as the second Prime Minister under King Henry IV. Implemented financial reforms that improved the economy and established a centralized administration. Guided policies that aimed to promote peace and stabilize the kingdom after years of civil war. Strengthened the infrastructure, enhancing trade and agricultural production. Influenced the shaping of French policies during the early 17th century.
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 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 ReadingLillian Board
British sprinter and Olympic medalist
Born
December 13th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1970 55 years ago — 22 years old
An accomplished sprinter, made significant contributions to athletics, particularly in the 400 meters. Competed in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, securing a silver medal in the 400 meters event. Achieved success in European Championships, earning gold medals in both the 400 meters and 4x400 meters relay events. Represented Great Britain in numerous international competitions and set national records for her events. Overcame challenges in her career, ultimately becoming a respected figure in the world of athletics.
Continue ReadingAlvin C. York
American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 13th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1964 61 years ago — 76 years old
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.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 10th
Tāufaʻāhau Tupou IV
King of Tonga with constitutional changes
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2006 19 years ago — 88 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1965 and ruled until 2006. Oversaw significant political changes in Tonga, including the introduction of constitutional reforms that aimed to enhance democratic governance. Worked to modernize the Tongan economy and improve education in the country. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts to promote Tonga's interests on the international stage. Died in 2006, marking the end of a reign that lasted over four decades.
Continue ReadingJon Brower Minnoch
American heaviest man
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1983 42 years ago — 42 years old
Record holder for the highest weight ever recorded at 1,400 pounds. Struggled with obesity and associated health issues from a young age. Hospitalized multiple times due to complications arising from weight, including heart and respiratory problems. Underwent a significant weight loss program that resulted in a loss of 924 pounds over 16 months. Despite efforts to manage weight, passed away at the age of 41.
Continue ReadingAntoine Lahad
Lebanese General, Commander of SLA
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the commander of the South Lebanese Army (SLA) during the Lebanese Civil War and Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon. Start of military career occurred in the late 1970s. Led the SLA in various operations and collaborated closely with Israeli forces. In 2000, following Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon, Lahad sought asylum and relocated to France, where he remained until death in 2015.
Continue ReadingBrock Adams
American lawyer and Secretary of Transportation
Born
January 13th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2004 21 years ago — 77 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the 5th United States Secretary of Transportation. Appointed by President Jimmy Carter, held the position from 1977 to 1979. Managed significant transportation policies and initiatives during tenure, contributing to infrastructure development. Prior to this role, served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Washington's 7th congressional district from 1965 to 1975. Also held the position of state senator in Washington before transitioning to national politics.
Continue ReadingFrankie Beverly
Soul/Funk Singer with Maze
Born
December 6th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent figure in the soul and funk music genre, formed the band Maze in the early 1970s. The group produced a string of successful albums, blending smooth melodies with rhythmic grooves. Maze became notable for their live performances and a dedicated fan base, often performing at sold-out venues across the United States. The song 'Before I Let Go' achieved significant popularity and remains a staple in the genre, often covered by various artists. The influence of this musician's work continues to resonate in contemporary music.
Continue ReadingNorman Farberow
Psychologist and pioneer in suicide prevention
Born
February 12th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 97 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of psychology with a focus on suicide prevention. Served as a professor and held various leadership roles in academic institutions. Co-founded the Los Angeles Suicide Prevention Center, which marked a pivotal development in crisis intervention and mental health support. Published extensively on mental health issues and helped shape strategies for addressing suicidal behaviors. Involved in training professionals in the field, influencing practices related to mental health and crisis response.
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