Benjamin Banneker

American surveyor and almanac author

Benjamin Banneker - American surveyor and almanac author
Born

November 9th, 1731
293 years ago

Died

October 9th, 1806
218 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1731 in Maryland, this individual was a notable farmer, surveyor, and author. He played a significant role in the surveying of the boundaries of the District of Columbia. Banneker published several almanacs that included astronomical calculations and weather predictions. He corresponded with Thomas Jefferson, advocating for the rights of African Americans and the abolition of slavery. His contributions include a remarkable understanding of mathematics and astronomy, despite limited formal education.

Surveyed the District of Columbia

Published a series of almanacs from 1792 to 1797

Wrote a letter to Thomas Jefferson regarding civil rights

Other People Born on November 9th

Joseph-Adolphe Chapleau

Canadian lawyer and Quebec Premier
Born
November 9th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1898 126 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the 5th Premier of Quebec from 1879 to 1882. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Quebec during the late 19th century. After his term as Premier, continued to influence provincial politics and public life. His legal career included various high-profile cases, contributing to the shaping of legal practices in the region. Later became a member of the federal government, where further involvement in political affairs continued.

Continue Reading

Thomasine Christine Gyllembourg-Ehrensvärd

Danish author with notable novels
Born
November 9th, 1773 251 years ago
Died
1856 169 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1773, an author produced significant literary works that contributed to Danish literature in the 19th century. Active in a male-dominated literary field, produced novels and stories that explored themes of love, morality, and social issues. Engaged in the cultural and intellectual circles of Denmark, formed connections with other writers and thinkers of the era. Writings reflected personal experiences and societal observations.

Continue Reading

Demetra Plakas

American drummer with The L7 band
Born
November 9th, 1960 64 years ago

Started drumming at a young age and gained recognition as the drummer for the alternative rock band L7. The band emerged in the early 1990s as part of the grunge and punk rock scenes. Plakas contributed to multiple albums, including 'Bricks Are Heavy' released in 1992, which garnered critical acclaim. The band is noted for its energetic performances and feminist themes in its lyrics. Plakas has also collaborated with other artists and participated in various projects throughout her career.

Continue Reading

Delta Goodrem

Singer-songwriter and actress with albums
Born
November 9th, 1984 40 years ago

Achieved fame as a singer-songwriter and actress. Released the debut album, 'Delta', which reached number one on the ARIA Albums Chart. Gained additional recognition for roles in television, particularly the character Nina Tucker in the series 'Neighbours'. Continued to release successful albums, including 'Mistaken Identity' and 'Wings of the Wild'. Recognized for contributions to music and entertainment in Australia.

Continue Reading

Imre Lakatos

Philosopher of mathematics and science
Born
November 9th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1974 51 years ago — 51 years old

Contributed to the philosophy of mathematics and science with the development of the methodology of scientific research programs. Worked on issues related to the logic of mathematics and theories of scientific change. Engaged in debates over the foundations of mathematics and the philosophy of science, offering insights into the way scientific theories progress and evolve. Held the position of lecturer at the London School of Economics.

Continue Reading

Heiti Talvik

Estonian poet and playwright
Born
November 9th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 43 years old

Born in Estonia, a significant figure in the country's literary scene during the 20th century. Contributed to poetry and drama, with a focus on themes relevant to Estonian culture and identity. Talvik's work was influenced by historical events, including the impact of World War II on Estonia. He actively participated in literary circles and was involved in efforts to preserve Estonian language and literature during difficult periods. His poetry collections and plays often reflected a deep connection to Estonian nature and folklore, making them a crucial part of the country's literary heritage.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 9th

Horst Szymaniak

German footballer with Schalke 04 legacy
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2009 15 years ago — 75 years old

A professional footballer played as a defender primarily for Schalke 04. Szymaniak's career spanned from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, gaining recognition for his defensive skills and leadership on the field. His significant contributions helped the team secure the DFB-Pokal in 1972. After retirement, transitioned into coaching, impacting youth football in Germany.

Continue Reading

Pope Pius XII

Pope and leader during WWII
Born
March 2nd, 1876 149 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1958 66 years ago — 82 years old

Elected as Pope in 1939, this individual led the Catholic Church during a challenging period marked by World War II. The papacy focused on various social and political issues, including attempts to mediate peace during the war. The individual addressed contemporary problems concerning the Church's involvement in global politics and advocated for humanitarian efforts, especially regarding the protection of Jewish people and refugees during the Holocaust. Post-war, the papacy dealt with the complexities of the Cold War and worked to reform the Church's position in the modern world. The individual was also involved in the establishment of the Vatican's diplomatic relations with different nations.

Continue Reading

Harris Savides

Cinematographer for 'Elephant' and 'Zodiac'
Born
1957 68 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2012 12 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent cinematographer, this individual contributed significantly to the film industry with a distinctive visual style. Worked on various acclaimed films, including 'Elephant', which won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival, and 'Zodiac', recognized for its complex narrative and stylistic precision. Collaborated with notable directors, including Gus Van Sant and David Fincher, building a reputation for innovative cinematography that enhanced storytelling. Received accolades for work that showcased meticulous attention to detail and atmospheric lighting, which became trademarks of the cinematographic style.

Continue Reading

Vilna Gaon

Lithuanian rabbi and scholar of Talmud
Born
April 23rd, 1720 304 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1797 227 years ago — 77 years old

A leading figure in Jewish scholarship during the 18th century, displayed profound knowledge in Torah and Talmudic studies. Contributed significantly to Jewish law and thought, influencing subsequent generations of scholars. Established a yeshiva in Vilnius, where many students studied under his guidance, thereby shaping Jewish educational practices. Wrote numerous works on Jewish philosophy and mysticism, including commentaries on the Bible and Talmud, which remain influential.

Continue Reading

David Dukes

American actor in 'The Stand' and 'The Blue and the Gray'
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2000 24 years ago — 55 years old

An American actor with a significant presence in both film and television, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. Played various roles in productions that showcased his versatility. Notable performances included roles in the television miniseries 'The Stand' based on Stephen King's novel, as well as in 'The Blue and the Gray', a historical miniseries about the American Civil War. His career also included appearances in feature films and guest roles in popular series, contributing to the entertainment landscape of his era.

Continue Reading

Theodor Innitzer

Austrian Cardinal with influential role
Born
December 25th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1955 69 years ago — 79 years old

An Austrian cardinal served as the Archbishop of Vienna during a significant period in the Catholic Church and Austrian history. Innitzer opposed Nazi ideology and sought to protect the rights of Catholics during the regime's rise to power. He played a crucial role in organizing humanitarian efforts for those affected by the war in Austria and was involved in promoting the Catholic Church's teachings during a time of political and social upheaval. His leadership within the church was marked by advocacy for social justice and community support.

Continue Reading