Carlo Azeglio Ciampi
Italian politician, 10th President of Italy
Born in 1920, this individual served as the 10th President of Italy from 1999 to 2006. Before the presidency, held various key positions in the Italian government, including Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance. Focused on economic reforms and European integration while leading the country during a pivotal period. Instrumental in promoting the euro as Italy's national currency during his tenure as Minister of Economy and Finance in the 1990s.
Served as the 10th President of Italy
Held office as Prime Minister of Italy
Led the Ministry of Economy and Finance
Other People Born on December 9th
Martin de Porres
Peruvian saint and patron of social justice
Born
December 9th, 1579 446 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1639 386 years ago — 59 years old
Born in Lima, Peru, in 1579, he became a lay member of the Dominican Order and dedicated life to helping the poor and marginalized. Renowned for his work in the field of health and welfare, he established an orphanage and a children's hospital. His efforts in serving the needy and promoting social justice are widely recognized. Canonized as a saint in 1962, he is often invoked for matters of equality and community assistance.
Continue ReadingMargaret Hamilton
Actress and voice artist from America
Born
December 9th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1985 40 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished American actress and voice artist, Hamilton is recognized for her work in film and television, particularly for the role of the Wicked Witch of the West in the 1939 film 'The Wizard of Oz'. In addition to her iconic film role, she had a notable career in television. Hamilton performed in various series, earning respect in the entertainment industry for her distinctive voice and character portrayals. Beyond acting, Hamilton contributed to educational initiatives, promoting literacy and arts education.
Continue ReadingCarl Wilhelm Scheele
Pharmaceutical chemist and discoverer
Born
December 9th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1786 239 years ago — 43 years old
A pharmaceutical chemist born in Swedish Pomerania, significant in the study of chemistry during the 18th century. Discovered several chemical substances and was instrumental in the advancement of analytical chemistry. Scheele's work led to the identification of essential elements and compounds, including hydrogen, oxygen, and several acids. Worked extensively on the properties of various minerals and metals, contributing to the understanding of chemical reactions and their practical applications.
Continue ReadingJohann Joachim Winckelmann
German archaeologist and historian
Born
December 9th, 1717 308 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1768 257 years ago — 50 years old
Birth occurred in 1717 in Germany. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of modern archaeology and the study of classical art. His seminal work, 'History of Ancient Art', offered critical insights into Greco-Roman art and culture. Winckelmann's ideas on aesthetics influenced later artists and historians, marking a significant turn in art history scholarship. Died in 1768.
Continue ReadingDouglas Fairbanks Jr.
Actor and producer; The Great Ziegfeld
Born
December 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2000 25 years ago — 90 years old
An American actor and producer who emerged in the film industry during the early 20th century. Gained recognition for performances in silent films and transitioned successfully into talkies. Notable roles included titles in 'The Great Ziegfeld' and 'The Prisoner of Zenda'. Served in the United States Navy during World War II. Later worked as a producer, contributing to various theatrical productions and films.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Schwarzkopf
German-Austrian soprano and actress
Born
December 9th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2006 19 years ago — 90 years old
A significant soprano in the 20th century, achieved acclaim in opera and concert. Renowned for performances in works by Mozart and Strauss, showcasing mastery in both lyrical and dramatic roles. Also had a prominent career in lieder, exhibiting exceptional interpretive skill. Worked extensively with leading conductors and orchestras throughout Europe and the United States. Transitioned into a respected teacher, influencing future generations of singers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 16th
Leo Fall
Austrian composer of operettas
Born
February 2nd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1925 100 years ago — 52 years old
Austrian composer specialized in operettas during the early 20th century. The works gained popularity in German-speaking regions and beyond. Composed notable pieces including 'Madame Pompadour' and 'The Dollar Princess'. His operettas featured melodic richness and engaging storytelling, which resonated with audiences of the time. Several compositions continue to be performed in operatic theaters to this day. Fall's contributions to the operetta genre are significant and marked by his distinctive style.
Continue ReadingRichard Brautigan
American novelist and poet
Born
January 30th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1984 41 years ago — 49 years old
An American novelist, poet, and short story writer, produced several works that became part of the countercultural movement of the 1960s. The most recognized work is "Trout Fishing in America," a blend of humor and surrealism that illustrates life and the American landscape. Other notable works include "In Watermelon Sugar" and "The Tokyo-Montana Express." Contributed significantly to postmodern literature and gained a following that resonated with themes of loss, nature, and individuality.
Continue ReadingSheb Wooley
Singer-songwriter and actor; 'The Purple People Eater'
Born
April 10th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 82 years old
An American singer-songwriter and actor, achieved prominence in the 1950s. Gained fame with the novelty song 'The Purple People Eater,' which topped the Billboard charts in 1958. Also contributed to television and film, appearing in the series 'Rawhide' and 'The Kettles in the Ozarks.' Career in entertainment spanned several decades, transitioning between music and acting, becoming a well-recognized figure in both fields.
Continue ReadingFatin Rüştü Zorlu
Turkish diplomat and politician
Born
April 20th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1961 64 years ago — 51 years old
Held significant roles in Turkish diplomacy during important historical periods. Served as the Turkish Ambassador to the United States from 1950 to 1952, navigating complex geopolitical landscapes of the Cold War era. Played a key part in international negotiations, particularly regarding Turkey's strategic alliances. Advocated for Turkey's position in global affairs and contributed to key treaties and alliances that shaped the region's diplomatic relations. Involved in politics throughout his career, impacting Turkey's foreign relations through various governmental and diplomatic capacities.
Continue ReadingEdward Albee
Playwright known for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Born
March 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1928, this playwright made significant contributions to American theater. His career spanned several decades, with notable plays that explored complex themes of identity, relationships, and human behavior. 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?', premiered in 1962, is one of his most recognized works, showcasing the tumultuous marriage between George and Martha. The playwright also received several prestigious awards throughout his career, including three Pulitzer Prizes for Drama.
Continue ReadingMillicent Fenwick
Journalist and U.S. Congresswoman
Born
February 25th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1992 33 years ago — 82 years old
An influential figure in American journalism and politics. Started a career as a journalist, contributing to various publications. Served as a U.S. Representative for New Jersey from 1975 to 1983. Recognized for strong advocacy for women's rights and environmental issues. Fenwick became a prominent voice for legislation focused on social justice and government accountability.
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