Bruce Catton
American historian and author of Civil War works
A prominent historian focused on the American Civil War, this individual gained recognition through a series of influential writings. The work 'A Stillness at Appomattox' earned a Pulitzer Prize in 1954. This author contributed significantly to the understanding of Civil War history through meticulous research and engaging narratives. Other notable works included 'Mr. Lincoln's Army' and 'The Civil War'.
Received the Pulitzer Prize for 'A Stillness at Appomattox'
Authored influential works like 'Mr. Lincoln's Army'
Served as the editor of the Civil War History magazine
Other People Born on October 9th
Hermann Emil Fischer
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry 1902
Born
October 9th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Germany, a chemist contributed significantly to the understanding of carbohydrates and purines. Fischer's work on the synthesis of nucleic acids and the study of enzyme activity laid the foundation for modern biochemistry. The synthesis of carbohydrates, particularly glucose, marked a milestone in the field. The research advanced knowledge of molecular structure and bonding, influencing future scientific studies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1902, recognized for contributions to sugar chemistry and work in synthesis reactions. Also held a professorship in chemistry at the University of Berlin where research promoted further advancements in organic chemistry.
Continue ReadingJacques Tati
French actor and filmmaker of 'Mon Oncle'
Born
October 9th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1982 44 years ago — 75 years old
An influential figure in cinema, this individual was an actor, director, and screenwriter. Renowned for creating visually innovative comedies, developed a unique style emphasizing visual gags and minimal dialogue. The character Monsieur Hulot, featured in films like 'Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot' and 'Mon Oncle', became iconic for its charm and humor. Tati's work often reflected a critique of modernity and urban life, showcasing the contrast between tradition and progress. Received the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for 'Mon Oncle'.
Continue ReadingTodd Kelly
Australian race car driver and champion
Born
October 9th, 1979 46 years ago
Competed in the V8 Supercar Championship series. Achieved multiple victories driving for the Kelly Racing team. Notable for contributions to the sport as both a driver and a team owner. Expanded involvement in motorsports through team management and development of young drivers.
Continue ReadingPeter Saville
Graphic designer and art director
Born
October 9th, 1955 70 years ago
Active in the design field since the late 1970s, this graphic designer became prominent for album artwork, especially with the British band Joy Division. The design for the band's iconic album 'Unknown Pleasures' has been widely recognized and influential in music and art circles. Collaborations continued with notable musicians and companies throughout the 1980s and beyond. Additionally, worked as an art director for various projects, enhancing visual aesthetics in the British music scene.
Continue ReadingFrancis Wayland Parker
Education reform theorist and leader
Born
October 9th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
1902 124 years ago — 65 years old
A key figure in the development of progressive education, contributed to the establishment of innovative teaching methods. Advocated for experiential learning and child-centered education models. Served as the principal of the Cook County Normal School in Chicago and later founded the Francis W. Parker School. Promoted the belief that education should develop a child's character and intellect through active participation and engagement. Published works on pedagogy that influenced educational theory in the United States.
Continue ReadingWalter O'Malley
Baseball team owner and executive
Born
October 9th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1979 46 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in Major League Baseball, played a vital role in the relocation of the Brooklyn Dodgers to Los Angeles in 1957, transforming the franchise into a key player in the expansion of baseball on the West Coast. Oversaw the construction of Dodger Stadium, which became a landmark venue for the sport. Advocated for innovative practices in baseball, including the integration of technology in the game.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 28th
Reuvein Margolies
Ukrainian-Israeli author and scholar
Born
November 30th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1971 54 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Ukraine in 1889, a scholar who significantly contributed to Jewish literature and history. Immigrated to Israel, where worked as an educator and wrote extensively on Jewish culture, language, and history. Authored several books addressing Jewish identity and tradition, playing a role in the intellectual discourse of the time. Engaged in various educational initiatives to promote Jewish studies.
Continue ReadingAlexander Carlyle
Scottish minister and author of memoirs
Born
January 26th, 1722 304 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1805 220 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Scottish minister and author, this individual became well-regarded for writing memoirs that provide insight into 18th-century Scottish life and the Church of Scotland. The literary work offers reflections on the social and political atmosphere of the time, along with personal anecdotes from his ministry. His writings contributed to the understanding of the period's religious and cultural dynamics. Active in the clerical community, he served as a minister in the Church of Scotland, and his influence extended beyond the pulpit through his literary contributions.
Continue ReadingJulius Krohn
Finnish poet and journalist
Born
April 19th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1888 137 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in Finnish literature and journalism, contributed significantly to the development of the Finnish language and national identity. Played a critical role in the Finnish literature movement during the 19th century. Actively promoted Finnish folk traditions and language through poetry and as an editor. His work included the editing of various literary journals and publications, facilitating the growth of Finnish as a literary language.
Continue ReadingAxel Oxenstierna
Swedish Lord High Chancellor, statesman
Born
June 16th, 1583 442 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1654 371 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1583, a prominent Swedish statesman served as the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden during a period of political and military expansion. Played a crucial role in the Thirty Years' War, enhancing Sweden's influence in Europe. Administratively reformed the Swedish government and military, laying groundwork for Sweden's rise as a great power in the 17th century. Advocated for centralization of power and was instrumental in developing Sweden's administrative structure that included a more efficient taxation system and military organization. His policies had lasting effects on Swedish politics and governance.
Continue ReadingMiyoshi Umeki
Actress and singer in Flower Drum Song
Born
May 8th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Japan, this individual moved to the United States and pursued a career in entertainment. Gained recognition for a performance in the Broadway musical 'Flower Drum Song' which led to a successful film adaptation. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in the film 'Sayonara'. Contributed to both music and film, earning a place in the history of Asian American performers in entertainment.
Continue ReadingWilliam Smith
Geologist and cartographer; created geological maps
Born
March 23rd, 1769 256 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1839 186 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed to the field of geology through the development of the first nationwide geological map of England, published in 1815. This work established the principle of faunal succession, enabling the identification of sedimentary rock layers based on the fossils they contained. Smith also worked on mapping the geology of the English countryside and introduced the concept of using fossils to correlate and date the strata. His methodologies laid the foundation for modern geological studies.
Continue Reading