Camille Saint-Saëns
French composer and conductor, 'Carnival of the Animals'
A prominent French composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of the symphonic poem and opera. Composed the opera 'Samson and Delilah', which gained acclaim in the late 19th century. Also created orchestral works such as 'Danse Macabre' and symphonies, incorporating elements of French nationalism. Worked as a conductor, leading various orchestras throughout Europe and promoting the works of fellow composers.
Composed 'Carnival of the Animals'
Wrote the opera 'Samson and Delilah'
Created orchestral piece 'Danse Macabre'
Other People Born on October 9th
Ferdinand Verbiest
Jesuit missionary and astronomer
Born
October 9th, 1623 402 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1688 337 years ago — 64 years old
Ferdinand Verbiest served as a Flemish Jesuit missionary in China during the 17th century. Arriving in China in 1659, focused on introducing Western science and technology, particularly astronomy and mathematics. Verbiest played a significant role in the establishment of the Imperial Astronomy Bureau and became the first European to create a full set of astronomical instruments designed for Chinese use. Additionally, he contributed to various translations of Western scientific texts into Chinese, bridging the gap between Western and Chinese knowledge systems. His work significantly influenced Chinese astronomy and mathematics, enabling the integration of Western concepts into these fields.
Continue ReadingStephane Zubar
French footballer and defender
Born
October 9th, 1986 39 years ago
A professional footballer, engaged primarily as a defender. Played for clubs such as En Avant Guingamp and FC Nantes during career. Competing in Ligue 1, contributed to match play and defensive strategies. Achieved promotion successes with different teams and garnered experience across multiple seasons in French football.
Continue ReadingMihajlo Pupin
Physicist, inventor of the Pupin coil
Born
October 9th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1935 90 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Serbia, Pupin emigrated to the United States, where he studied at Columbia University and earned a PhD in physics. He contributed significantly to telecommunications technology, particularly in the area of long-distance telephony. His most notable invention, the Pupin coil, enhanced the transmission of telephone signals over long distances. Pupin held numerous patents and was recognized for his scientific contributions, receiving the Edison Medal in 1920. He also served as a professor at Columbia University, influencing future generations of scientists. In addition to his scientific work, he was involved in educational and cultural exchanges between the USA and Serbia.
Continue ReadingSalimbene di Adam
Italian historian and chronicler
Born
October 9th, 1221 804 years ago
Died
1290 735 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1221, a notable historian and chronicler during the 13th century. Employed meticulous documentation of events and societal changes during a turbulent period in Italy. The work 'Chronicle' provides insights into the Franciscan Order and the political landscape of the time. His writings are regarded as significant for understanding medieval history and the Franciscan viewpoint. Spent much of life traveling and studying the natural world, religious doctrines, and contemporary events.
Continue ReadingKeith Booth
Basketball player and coach, NBA career
Born
October 9th, 1974 51 years ago
American basketball player and coach with a professional career in the NBA. Played for the Chicago Bulls and later for teams in the Continental Basketball Association. Transitioned to coaching after retirement and served in various assistant coaching roles at the collegiate level. Developed strategies and contributed to player growth in college basketball.
Continue ReadingNicolaes Tulp
Dutch anatomist and civic leader
Born
October 9th, 1593 432 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1674 351 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in 17th century anatomy, Tulp served as the city's chief physician and member of the municipal government in Amsterdam. He gained recognition for his detailed studies on human anatomy and public dissections, enhancing the understanding of the human body. Tulp's influential work, 'Observationes Medicae', contributed to medical literature and education. He was also known for his role in establishing the Amsterdam Guild of Surgeons, promoting the profession through formal education and practice. Tulp's public dissections attracted considerable attention, making him a prominent figure in both medical and civic circles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
William Gaddis
American author of 'The Recognitions'
Born
December 29th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and academic, work focused on postmodern literature. First novel, 'The Recognitions', published in 1955, explored themes of art and authenticity. Gaddis received the National Book Award for 'JR' in 1976, illustrating the complexity of capitalism and American society. Contributed to the development of modern narrative techniques through intricate characterizations and innovative structures. Later works include 'Carpenter's Gothic' and 'A Frolic of His Own', both showcasing his distinctive style and critical engagement with literary traditions.
Continue ReadingDebs Garms
Baseball player for the Pittsburgh Pirates
Born
June 26th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1983 42 years ago — 76 years old
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1935 to 1946. Spent the majority of career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, contributing to the team's success in the National League. Achieved a notable batting average and earned the nickname 'The Human Sweepstake'. Also played for the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals during career.
Continue ReadingJake Adam York
American poet and academic known for poetry
Born
1972 53 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 40 years old
This poet and academic focused on the intersection of place, memory, and history in the American South, expressing the complexity of identity through verse. York published several poetry collections, including 'A Murmuration of Starlings' and 'The Halo.' He contributed to the academic field through teaching and as an editor for various literary journals. His work often melded personal narratives with broader societal themes, providing insight into the Southern experience and the human condition.
Continue ReadingFumimaro Konoe
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
October 12th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1945 80 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 39th Prime Minister of Japan from 1940 to 1941. As Prime Minister, played a significant role during a crucial period of World War II. Advocated for military expansion and sought to strengthen Japan's position in Asia. Resigned amid increasing pressures and the changing tide of the war, later involved in post-war politics.
Continue ReadingFutabayama Sadaji
Japanese sumo wrestler, 35th Yokozuna
Born
February 9th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1968 57 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent sumo wrestler, achieved the highest rank of Yokozuna during a notable career. Active from the 1930s to the 1950s, won a total of 12 top division championships. Competed for the Futagoyama stable and became a significant figure in the sport.
Continue ReadingElwood V. Jensen
Biologist and academic researcher
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of biology with a focus on hormone receptors. Developed the first methods for isolating and characterizing estrogen receptors, which advanced understanding of cellular mechanisms related to hormones. Served on faculty at multiple prestigious institutions over the course of an academic career dedicated to teaching and research. Published numerous articles and engaged in collaborative studies that furthered knowledge in endocrinology. Received recognition for contributions to the understanding of cancer biology and hormone-related diseases.
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