Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius
Botanist and explorer of Brazil
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Germany
Links & References
A prominent botanist and explorer, contributions focused on the flora of Brazil. Studied botany extensively, leading expeditions to collect plant specimens. Worked on the classification and documentation of various plant species. Developed significant works, including 'Flora Brasiliae.' Additionally, served as a naturalist and produced detailed accounts of Brazilian ecology and culture during the 19th century.
Published 'Flora Brasiliae'
Conducted extensive botanical expeditions in Brazil
Established critical classifications of Brazilian plants
Other People Born on April 17th
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Air Marshal and WWII veteran
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April 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Served in the Royal Australian Air Force, playing a significant role during World War II. Contributed to air operations and command leadership in various capacities. After the war, advanced to the rank of Air Marshal, overseeing significant developments in the Australian Air Force. Held key positions that influenced aviation policy and air defense in Australia. Retrieved expertise in military strategy and aviation management throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Piëch
Automotive engineer and Volkswagen CEO
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April 17th, 1937 88 years ago
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August 25th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished automotive engineer and businessman, contributions to the automotive industry include leadership roles at Audi and Volkswagen. Oversaw development of the Audi Quattro, a groundbreaking all-wheel-drive vehicle that revolutionized performance standards. Served as Chairman of the Volkswagen Group, guiding the company through significant expansion and innovation. Advocated for engineering excellence, emphasizing performance and quality in vehicle design.
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French journalist and author, wrote 'Oublier Piaf'
Born
April 17th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2016 10 years ago — 95 years old
A journalist and author with significant contributions to literature and cultural commentary. Worked for various publications including 'Le Figaro' and 'L'Express'. Authored several novels, with 'Oublier Piaf' gaining notable recognition. Served as a member of the Académie Goncourt, which awards prestigious literary prizes in France. Engaged in uncovering social issues and highlighting cultural stories through journalism and fiction.
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Estonian architect and politician
Born
April 17th, 1941 84 years ago
An architect and politician contributed significantly to Estonia's administrative framework. Held the position of Estonian Minister of the Interior, overseeing policies related to internal security and administration. Involved in the restoration of Estonia's independence and played a role in shaping modern Estonian governance.
Continue ReadingHeidi Alexander
English politician and former MP
Born
April 17th, 1975 50 years ago
A British politician served as the Member of Parliament for Lewisham East from 2010 to 2019. Played a key role in various health issues during the tenure as Shadow Secretary of State for Health. After leaving Parliament, engaged in the field of public transport, focusing on improving commuting services. Also contributed to regional development strategies in London.
Continue ReadingKerry Wendell Thornley
American author and theorist
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
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November 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 60 years old
An American author and theorist, contributed to various writings on conspiracy theories and the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Authored the book 'The Prankster and the Sphinx', which explored topics related to the counterculture and alternative thought. Engaged in the creation of fictional narratives closely tied to significant cultural movements. His work often combined elements of satire and philosophy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 13th
Lew Grade
Film producer and television executive
Born
December 25th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old
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Continue ReadingLorraine O'Grady
American conceptual artist and writer
Born
1934 92 years ago
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Portuguese neurologist, Nobel laureate
Born
November 29th, 1874 151 years ago
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Concentration camp guard during WWII
Born
1923 103 years ago
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December 13th, 1945 80 years ago — 22 years old
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Continue ReadingElisabeth Volkenrath
Concentration camp supervisor
Born
September 5th, 1919 106 years ago
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December 13th, 1945 80 years ago — 26 years old
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Spanish rabbi and philosopher
Born
March 30th, 1135 890 years ago
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December 13th, 1204 821 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent medieval rabbi and philosopher, this figure made significant contributions to Jewish law and philosophy. Born in Córdoba, Spain, in 1135, he later moved to Morocco and then Egypt. His major works include 'Mishneh Torah,' a comprehensive code of Jewish law, and 'Guide for the Perplexed,' which addresses the relationship between religion and philosophy. His writings sought to reconcile religious tradition with rational thought.
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