Belle da Costa Greene
Librarian, bibliographer at Princeton
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
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.
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Actor and director in film and television
Born
December 13th, 1957 68 years ago
An actor and director recognized for roles in film and television. Appeared in acclaimed films such as 'Reservoir Dogs', 'Fargo', and 'The Big Lebowski'. Contributed as a director for episodes of 'The Sopranos' and 'Boardwalk Empire'. Worked extensively in independent cinema and collaborated with various prominent directors.
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Professional baseball pitcher, MLB star
Born
December 13th, 1982 43 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher played in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily for the Florida Marlins. Debuted in 2006 and excelled as a starting pitcher, noted for a strong strikeout ability. Achieved double-digit wins in multiple seasons and earned a reputation for durability on the mound. Contributed significantly to teams with consistent performances during regular seasons and playoff runs.
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 ReadingChristopher Plummer
Canadian actor of 'The Sound of Music'
Born
December 13th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2021 5 years ago — 91 years old
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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
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Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 10th
Bob Lanier
American politician and banker
Born
March 10th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2022 4 years ago — 97 years old
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Ukrainian politician, 1st President
Born
January 10th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2022 4 years ago — 88 years old
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Duchess and widow of John of Gaunt
Died
May 10th, 1403 623 years ago — None years old
Widow of John of Gaunt, played a significant role in the English royal lineage. In the late 14th century, maintained a connection to the Plantagenet dynasty through her relationship with Gaunt. Their children, known as the Beauforts, were influential figures in English nobility. Married John of Gaunt after his first wife's death, achieving a union that was contentious due to issues of legitimacy. Her descendants would later connect to the royal house of Tudor, contributing to the political landscape of England.
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Singer-songwriter with Grammy Award
Born
December 21st, 1953 72 years ago
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Dutch politician, Governor-General of Indies
Born
May 30th, 1894 132 years ago
Died
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A prominent politician served as Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies from 1946 to 1949. Focused on decolonization and restructuring policies during a period of political upheaval. Advocated for reform and modernization in colonial administration while navigating tensions between Dutch and Indonesian nationalists. After the transfer of sovereignty to Indonesia, returned to the Netherlands where continued political career involved engagement in Dutch-Indonesian relations.
Continue ReadingLouis XV of France
French monarch and ruler in the 18th century
Born
February 15th, 1710 316 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1774 252 years ago — 64 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1715 to 1774. Ascended to the throne at the age of five, following the death of Louis XIV. His reign was marked by increasing centralization of power and significant engagement in wars. Presided over military campaigns during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Faced challenges such as growing dissent among the nobility and issues related to financial management. His legacy includes the establishment of the French Enlightenment, promoting arts and architecture in Paris, particularly exemplified by the construction and expansion of the Palace of Versailles. Died in 1774, leaving a complex legacy that influenced the subsequent political landscape of France.
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