Charbel Makhluf

Lebanese monk and recognized saint

Charbel Makhluf - Lebanese monk and recognized saint
Born

May 8th, 1828
196 years ago

Died

December 24th, 1898
126 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

Lebanon

Links & References

Born in a small village in Lebanon, a monk dedicated life to spirituality after joining the Lebanese Maronite Order. Spent years in solitude and prayer, notably at the Monastery of St. Maroun in Annaya. Engaged in practices of asceticism, healing, and devotion, contributing to the Christian tradition in Lebanon. Passed away in 1898, with a reputation for performing miracles attributed to his intercession. Canonized as a saint in 1977 by the Catholic Church, he has become a significant figure in Maronite spirituality.

Canonization by the Catholic Church in 1977

Performing numerous miracles posthumously

Other People Born on May 8th

David Attenborough

Environmentalist and television host
Born
May 8th, 1926 98 years ago

A prominent broadcaster and natural historian, an influential figure in the environmental movement. Best recognized for the series 'The Blue Planet' and 'Planet Earth'. His work in documentary filmmaking has significantly increased global awareness of nature and conservation. He has served as a producer and presenter for numerous well-received documentary series, blending factual content with engaging storytelling. His dedication to wildlife conservation and education has earned widespread respect and recognition.

Continue Reading

Louis Moreau Gottschalk

Pianist and composer, 'Bande Nègre'
Born
May 8th, 1829 195 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1869 155 years ago — 40 years old

Pianist and composer achieved prominence during the 19th century. Raised in New Orleans, exposure to diverse musical traditions influenced compositional style. Studied at the Paris Conservatoire and gained recognition as a virtuoso pianist. Composed numerous works, blending classical, popular, and folk elements, showcasing the rhythms and melodies of African American and Creole music. 'Bande Nègre' is one of the notable compositions that reflected these influences. Performed widely in the United States and Europe, contributing to the popularity of American music abroad. Died in 1869 in Brazil, leaving a legacy that inspired future generations of composers.

Continue Reading

Roddy Doyle

Irish novelist and playwright for 'The Commitments'
Born
May 8th, 1958 66 years ago

Born in 1958, the individual achieved recognition as an influential Irish novelist, playwright, and screenwriter. The early work included the novel 'The Commitments', which explores the lives of musicians in Dublin. This novel was adapted into a successful film that garnered significant acclaim. Other notable works include 'Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha', which won the Booker Prize in 1993, highlighting the experiences of a young boy in Dublin. The individual's writing is characterized by a blend of humor and social commentary, often reflecting contemporary Irish society and culture. The contributions to literature extend beyond novels, including various plays and screenplays.

Continue Reading

Wesley Coe

American shot putter and thrower
Born
May 8th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1926 98 years ago — 47 years old

Competed in shot put, hammer throw, and discus throw in the early 20th century. Represented the United States in various national and international competitions. Achieved notable success in multiple throwing disciplines, showcasing versatility and skill in athletics. Continued to contribute to the sport and training of future athletes following competitive career.

Continue Reading

Andrea Alciato

Italian jurist and writer of Emblemata
Born
May 8th, 1492 532 years ago
Died
1550 475 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent Italian jurist and writer, widely recognized for contributions to legal literature and the development of the emblem book genre. Authored 'Emblemata' in 1531, which comprised a collection of emblems combining illustrations and mottos, highlighting moral lessons and allegorical meanings. Alciato's work played a significant role in Renaissance humanism, allowing for the merging of visual art and literature. His teachings in law affected subsequent generations of legal scholars and practitioners across Europe.

Continue Reading

Iyo Sky

Japanese professional wrestler, WWE Champion
Born
May 8th, 1990 34 years ago

Born in 1990, a professional wrestler who made a name in WWE under the ring name Iyo Sky. She began her wrestling career in Japan before moving to the United States to join WWE. Sky quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing a unique wrestling style and impressive athletic ability. Her performance in the women's division garnered attention, leading to championship opportunities and accolades in WWE. Sky's persona and skills contributed to her popularity within the organization.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 24th

Karl Dönitz

German admiral and politician
Born
September 16th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1980 44 years ago — 89 years old

Served as an admiral in the German Navy during World War II. Assumed leadership of Nazi Germany briefly as President following Hitler's death. Played a crucial role in the Battle of the Atlantic, implementing submarine warfare strategies. Oversaw the transition of power at the end of the war. Faced war crimes trial at Nuremberg, resulting in a ten-year prison sentence.

Continue Reading

Wilhelm Ackermann

German mathematician and logician
Born
March 29th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1962 62 years ago — 66 years old

A mathematician and logician, contributions included work on mathematical logic and the foundations of mathematics. Developed the Ackermann function, an important example in the theory of computable functions. Worked on model theory and was a professor at various universities throughout Germany. His research laid groundwork for future developments in both logic and computer science.

Continue Reading

Johns Hopkins

Philanthropist, Founder of Johns Hopkins University
Born
May 19th, 1795 229 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1873 151 years ago — 78 years old

A businessman and philanthropist established a university and hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. After amassing significant wealth through the wholesale mercantile business, dedicated a substantial portion of the fortune to charitable causes. The university, founded in 1876, became the first in the United States to implement a graduate school. Also contributed to the establishment of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, recognized as a pioneer in medical education and research.

Continue Reading

Richard Bowes

American science fiction author
Born
1944 81 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2023 1 years ago — 79 years old

An American author specialized in science fiction, produced a substantial body of work over several decades. His writing often explored themes of identity and reality, contributing uniquely to the genre. Bowes received recognition within the science fiction community for his innovative storytelling and complex characters. Worked as an editor for several literary publications, further shaping the landscape of speculative fiction. His novel 'Minions of the Moon' stands out as a significant contribution to the genre. Additionally, Bowes produced numerous short stories that garnered acclaim and were featured in prestigious anthologies.

Continue Reading

Frank Stanton

American businessman and media executive
Born
1908 117 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2006 18 years ago — 98 years old

Played a significant role in the development of the television industry. Served as president of CBS for over two decades, significantly shaping the network's programming and policies. Under leadership, CBS expanded its influence and became a major player in broadcasting, introducing many iconic shows. Contributed to the field of media through various strategies that prioritized quality content and innovation.

Continue Reading

William John Macquorn Rankine

Scottish physicist and engineer with Rankine cycle
Born
July 5th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1872 152 years ago — 52 years old

Contributions included work in thermodynamics, particularly the formulation of the Rankine cycle, which assesses the efficiency of heat engines. Developed concepts in the area of civil engineering and made significant strides in the understanding of energy and its transformations. Authored several influential texts that laid the groundwork for modern thermodynamic principles and provided a comprehensive theory of heat engines. Rankine's work bridged the gap between physics and engineering, fostering advancements in both fields.

Continue Reading