Billy Snedden
Australian politician and Attorney-General
Served as the 17th Attorney-General of Australia from 1971 to 1972, playing a significant role in legal reform during tenure. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Education and Minister for Services and Property. Elected as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the Liberal Party for the Melbourne electorate of Bruce from 1955 to 1983. Contributed to party leadership as the Opposition Leader from 1972 to 1974. Involved in shaping Australian law and policy during a transformative period in Australian politics.
Served as Attorney-General of Australia
Led the Liberal Party as Opposition Leader
Other People Born on December 31st
Friedrich Robert Faehlmann
Estonian philologist and physician
Born
December 31st, 1798 227 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1850 175 years ago — 51 years old
Contributed to the study of Estonian linguistics and culture. Completed significant research in philology, particularly focusing on the Estonian language. Made advancements in medical science, serving as a physician while engaging in linguistic studies. His work laid foundational elements for the development of Estonian literature and scholarship.
Continue ReadingJacques Cartier
French explorer for New France and Canada
Born
December 31st, 1491 534 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1557 468 years ago — 65 years old
A French navigator and explorer played a crucial role in the early exploration of Canada. In 1534, he made his first voyage across the Atlantic and claimed the land in the name of France. He explored the Gulf of St. Lawrence and established contact with Indigenous peoples, notably the St. Lawrence Iroquoian tribes. Cartier's expeditions laid the groundwork for future French colonization in North America. His work contributed significantly to mapping the region, including the St. Lawrence River and the vicinity of present-day Quebec.
Continue ReadingHerman Boerhaave
Botanist and physician, Systema Plantarum
Born
December 31st, 1668 357 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1738 287 years ago — 69 years old
Contributions to botany and medicine established a foundation for modern medical education. Developed a systematic approach to plant classification that influenced future botanists. Authored several important texts, including 'Elementa Chemiae' and 'Systema Plantarum', which served as vital resources in both fields. Promoted clinical education for physicians and integrated theory with practice.
Continue ReadingGottfried August Bürger
German poet and translator of ballads
Born
December 31st, 1741 284 years ago
Died
1794 232 years ago — 53 years old
Bürger was a prominent German poet and translator, particularly noted for his work in the genre of balladry. His most significant contribution is the ballad 'Lenore', which combines elements of folklore and romanticism. Born in 1741, he studied at the University of Göttingen, where he later held a position as a professor. Bürger's poetry often reflected themes of love, nature, and the supernatural, influencing later generations of poets. His work contributed to the German literary scene during the Sturm und Drang movement, emphasizing emotion and individualism as opposed to reason and structure prevalent in earlier literature.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Boldini
Italian painter known for portraiture
Born
December 31st, 1842 183 years ago
Died
1931 95 years ago — 89 years old
Born in Italy, a prominent painter specialized in portraiture, particularly during the Belle Époque period. Developed a distinct style characterized by dynamic brushwork and vibrant colors. Worked in Paris after moving from Florence, where collaboration with notable artists and exposure to avant-garde movements influenced the artistic approach. Portraits captured the elegance and sophistication of the upper class, leading to commissions from wealthy patrons. Exhibited works in major galleries and gained recognition for contributions to visual arts.
Continue ReadingIsma'il Pasha
Egyptian Politician and Khedive
Born
December 31st, 1830 195 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1895 130 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the Khedive of Egypt and Sudan from 1863 until deposed in 1879. Implemented a series of modernization reforms focusing on agriculture, transportation, and education. Promoted the expansion of the Suez Canal and supported infrastructure projects that boosted trade. His administration, however, led to significant debt, prompting foreign intervention in Egypt's financial affairs. After his deposition, the administration of Egypt transitioned to British control.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 27th
Joe Jackson
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 11th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2018 7 years ago — 63 years old
A British singer-songwriter and musician, this individual gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The debut album, 'Look Sharp!', received critical acclaim and commercial success. The unique blend of new wave, punk, and jazz influences characterized the early work. Subsequent albums, including 'I'm the Man' and 'Night and Day', further established a distinctive sound and style. Throughout the career, a strong emphasis remained on lyrical content and orchestration, showcasing versatility across genres. Various hits, such as 'Is She Really Going Out with Him?' and 'Steppin' Out', contributed to recognition on international music charts.
Continue ReadingÁngel Maturino Reséndiz
Mexican serial killer active in the U.S.
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2006 19 years ago — 46 years old
A serial killer known for committing multiple murders across the United States and Mexico during the late 1980s and 1990s. Blamed for at least 15 homicides, the modus operandi involved targeting victims in their homes, often using blunt objects. Captured in 1999, Reséndiz was linked to a series of unsolved crimes, leading to widespread media attention. Convicted and sentenced to death, he was executed in Texas in 2006.
Continue ReadingPhilippe de Noailles
French general and military leader
Born
December 27th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1794 231 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1715, a prominent French general served in multiple military campaigns during the 18th century. Gained recognition as a capable leader during the War of the Austrian Succession and later the Seven Years' War. Held the position of Marshal of France, an honor awarded to military leaders for outstanding service. Known for strategic military planning and effective leadership on the battlefield, contributing to various victories for French forces.
Continue ReadingJoseph Smith
Religious leader, founder of Mormonism
Born
December 23rd, 1805 220 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1844 181 years ago — 38 years old
Born on December 23, 1805, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Latter Day Saint movement, which emerged during the early 19th century in the United States. Received revelations that led to the publication of the Book of Mormon in 1830, a sacred text for followers. Organized the Church of Christ, which later became known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Led followers during periods of persecution and migration to the Utah Territory where the community would flourish. His leadership and teachings significantly shaped the religious landscape of the era until his martyrdom in 1844.
Continue ReadingEileen Barton
American singer, 'Roll Out the Barrel'
Born
November 24th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 27th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent American singer born in 1924, recognized for performances that charmed audiences in the mid-20th century. Gained fame with the release of 'Roll Out the Barrel', which became a popular hit. Also appeared on various television programs, gaining popularity through the variety shows of the era. Collaborated with notable musicians and bands, showcasing vocal talent across different genres.
Continue ReadingRanjit Singh
Sikh Emperor of the Punjab
Born
November 13th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1839 186 years ago — 58 years old
An influential leader in early 19th century India, this individual established the Sikh Empire in the Punjab region. Ascending to power in 1801, he united various Sikh misls and expanded the empire through military conquests. Under his reign, the region experienced significant economic and cultural development. A strong proponent of religious tolerance, he supported various faiths and promoted a sense of unity among his subjects. His efforts in modernizing the army and engaging in diplomatic relations with British and Afghan forces were notable. He is often referred to as the 'Lion of Punjab'.
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