Belle da Costa Greene

Librarian, bibliographer at Princeton

Belle da Costa Greene - Thinkers & Philosophers born December 13th, 1883
Born
Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent librarian and bibliographer, contributed significantly to the field of library science and the organization of rare book collections. Served as the first woman to be the director of the Princeton University Library from 1906 to 1948. Instrumental in the development of the library into a notable institution, and recognized for expertise in rare books and manuscripts.

Directed the Princeton University Library

Specialized in rare books and manuscripts

Other People Born on December 13th

Eric XIV of Sweden

King of Sweden, claimed throne in 1560
Born
December 13th, 1533 492 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1577 449 years ago — 43 years old

Became King of Sweden in 1560, ruling until 1577. His reign was marked by various military conflicts and attempts to solidify power in the Baltic region. Eric XIV engaged in wars against Denmark and Russia, aimed at expanding the kingdom's influence. His marriage to Karin Månsdotter, a commoner, caused friction with the nobility and led to political instability. In 1570, he faced a coup that resulted in his imprisonment and eventual forced abdication. Died in captivity in 1577.

Continue Reading

King Frederick III of Sicily

Monarch of Sicily and notable ruler
Born
December 13th, 1272 753 years ago
Died
1337 689 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1272, this monarch ruled Sicily during a tumultuous period marked by political struggles and external threats. Ascending to the throne in 1296, his reign witnessed significant efforts to stabilize and govern the island amidst conflicts involving the Papacy and neighboring kingdoms. His administration focused on consolidating power and maintaining peace, striving to unite diverse factions within the realm. He engaged in diplomatic efforts, balancing the interests of powerful entities in Italy and beyond. His reign ended in 1337, following which his legacy was carried on by successors who continued addressing the challenges he faced.

Continue Reading

Hans-Joachim Marseille

German Luftwaffe pilot and fighter ace
Born
December 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1942 83 years ago — 22 years old

A distinguished Luftwaffe pilot during World War II, achieved fame as a fighter ace. Recognized for impressive aerial combat skills, credited with shooting down hundreds of enemy aircraft. Gained a reputation for tactics and flying maneuvers in the Messerschmitt Bf 109. Met an early death in 1942, yet remains one of the top aces of the war.

Continue Reading

Pope Sixtus V

Pope and ecclesiastical reformer
Born
December 13th, 1521 504 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1590 435 years ago — 68 years old

Ascended to the papacy in 1585, serving until 1590. Implemented significant administrative reforms within the Catholic Church. Consolidated papal power through centralization and the establishment of a more efficient governance structure. Driven by a vision of reform, fostered construction and urban development, emphasizing the importance of Rome as the heart of Christendom. Championed the promotion of the Catholic faith and worked to counter the Protestant Reformation.

Continue Reading

Yongzheng 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 Reading

Alvin 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 Reading

Other People Who Died on May 10th

Sam Rubin

American journalist and television host
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2024 2 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent journalist known for work in television and entertainment reporting. Served as the entertainment anchor for KTLA in Los Angeles, providing insights and analysis on various aspects of the film and television industry. Also contributed to numerous other media outlets, covering significant events, celebrity interviews, and industry trends. Recognized for a personable style that engaged viewers and provided entertainment news with depth and context.

Continue Reading

Frank Frazetta

Fantasy artist and illustration master
Born
February 9th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2010 16 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent painter and illustrator, this individual gained recognition for impactful fantasy artwork that defined the genre. Early artistic endeavors included comic book illustrations, contributing to characters in the 1940s and 1950s. The portfolio expanded to include iconic fantasy book covers, notably for the 'Conan the Barbarian' series. Art style integrated dramatic compositions and vivid colors, influencing many contemporary artists. Frazetta's work extended to movie poster art and gallery exhibitions, further cementing a legacy within the fantasy art community.

Continue Reading

Stanislao Cannizzaro

Italian chemist, Avogadro’s principle proponent
Born
1826 200 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1910 116 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent chemist contributed significantly to the field of atomic theory and molecular weights. Cannizzaro established the Cannizzaro reaction, which allows for the synthesis of aldehydes from alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids. Participated in the 1860 Karlsruhe Congress, where principles of atomic weight were discussed. Cannizzaro’s work helped clarify the importance of both atomic and molecular weights for chemical sciences and provided a basis for subsequent developments in chemistry.

Continue Reading

Hal Mohr

Director and cinematographer of classic films
Born
1894 132 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1974 52 years ago — 80 years old

A director and cinematographer contributed significantly to American cinema during the early to mid-20th century. Mohr worked on several notable films, gaining recognition for innovative techniques in both directing and cinematography. His career included significant collaborations and a focus on the artistry of film production. Mohr’s work spanned various genres, showcasing versatility and creativity within the film industry. In the realm of cinematography, he received an Academy Award for Best Cinematography for the film 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. His contributions helped shape visual storytelling in cinema during a transformative era.

Continue Reading

Scotty Beckett

Actor in 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet'
Born
October 4th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1968 58 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1929, this individual started his career as a child actor in the late 1930s and became a prominent figure in both film and television. Starred in several notable projects, including 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' and films such as 'The County Fair' and 'Little Disaster.' Transitioned from child star to adult actor, facing various challenges in personal life and career. Also pursued a singing career, contributing to the entertainment industry beyond acting. Continued to work in television and film through the 1950s, though faced difficulties with health and substance abuse later in life.

Continue Reading

Kaifi Azmi

Indian poet and lyricist of Urdu literature
Born
1919 107 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2002 24 years ago — 83 years old

An influential figure in Urdu literature, contributed significantly as a poet, lyricist, and playwright. Active in the Progressive Writers' Movement, wrote extensively on social issues. Gained fame for lyrics in films such as 'Haqeeqat' and 'Gaman'. Also composed poetry that resonated with the themes of love, loss, and nationalism. Instrumental in promoting Urdu language and literature through various platforms. Explored themes of social justice and human rights in works, leading to recognition in literary circles.

Continue Reading