Charles de Foucauld
French priest and martyr
Born in 1858, significant religious figure and explorer. Worked in Algeria, focused on the spiritual needs of local communities. Known for a life of simplicity and dedication, inspired others through writings and missions. Died in 1916, recognized posthumously for commitment to faith and service.
Established the Little Brothers of Jesus
Wrote spiritual works that influence later thought
Other People Born on September 15th
Robert Lucas Jr.
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 15th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 86 years old
An economist and academic contributed significantly to the fields of macroeconomics and economic theory. Developed the concept of rational expectations, which revolutionized the understanding of how people form their expectations about the economy. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, where influential economic models were formulated. Received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1995 for contributions to the development of modern macroeconomic analysis.
Continue ReadingFernando de la Rúa
Lawyer and 51st President of Argentina
Born
September 15th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
July 9th, 2019 6 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 51st President of Argentina from 1999 to 2001. Promoted economic reforms aimed at stabilizing the country during a time of crisis. Oversaw initiatives to improve fiscal discipline and pursued technology and infrastructure investment. His presidency faced significant economic challenges that ultimately led to widespread protests and his resignation amid a financial collapse.
Continue ReadingJean Sylvain Bailly
French astronomer and politician, 1st Mayor of Paris
Born
September 15th, 1736 289 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1793 232 years ago — 57 years old
An influential figure in 18th-century France, played a key role in the French Revolution. Served as the first Mayor of Paris from 1789 to 1791, overseeing significant events during a critical time in French history. Contributed to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of the moons of Jupiter and the examination of comets. Also engaged in mathematics and was involved with the Academy of Sciences. His political career ended with arrest during the Reign of Terror, leading to execution in 1793.
Continue ReadingErnest Bullock
English organist and composer
Born
September 15th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1979 46 years ago — 88 years old
An organist and composer contributed significantly to British music in the early 20th century. Studied at the Royal College of Music and held positions at various institutions including Westminster Abbey. Bullock composed numerous choral works and is recognized for compositions such as 'The Promised Land' and 'Three Processional Pieces for Organ'. His contributions to organ music enriched the repertoire and influenced future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingMargie Moran
Filipino peace advocate and Miss Universe 1973
Born
September 15th, 1953 72 years ago
Born in 1953, a peace advocate and beauty queen achieved recognition after winning the title of Miss Universe in 1973. Following the pageant, served as an ambassador for various humanitarian causes, focusing on peace and education. Actively participated in numerous beauty-related and charitable events, promoting social issues and cultural awareness through her platform. Contributed to initiatives aimed at improving the lives of underprivileged communities in the Philippines.
Continue ReadingM. Visvesvaraya
Engineer and scholar of India
Born
September 15th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1962 63 years ago — 100 years old
An engineer and scholar specialized in irrigation systems, contributed to the development of numerous projects across India. Developed the automatic floodgates used in the Krishna Raja Sagara dam. Served as the Diwan of Mysore and played a significant role in the establishment of various industries and educational institutions. Published several works on engineering techniques and practices.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 1st
Stéphane Grappelli
French Jazz Violinist, Quintette of the Hot Club
Born
January 26th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1997 28 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent jazz violinist, this musician co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France in 1934 alongside guitarist Django Reinhardt. The group played a significant role in popularizing gypsy jazz and performed extensively throughout Europe and the United States. This artist's unique style blended classical technique with jazz improvisation, resulting in a distinctive sound. Throughout a long career, collaborations with various musicians and ensembles, as well as solo performances, highlighted this artist's contributions to the jazz genre. The work continued until the death in 1997, influencing generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingBruce Trigger
Archaeologist and historian specializing in Canada
Born
June 18th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2006 19 years ago — 69 years old
An influential Canadian archaeologist, anthropologist, and historian specialized in prehistoric North America. Contributions to archaeological theory and method shaped the field significantly. Held a position at McGill University, where research focused on cultural development and social organization among Indigenous peoples. Published numerous articles and books, critically examining the relationships between archaeology and anthropology, bridging historical narratives with scientific evidence. Engaged in fieldwork in various archaeological sites across Canada, enhancing understanding of indigenous cultures and histories.
Continue ReadingAlvin Ailey
Choreographer and founder of Ailey American Dance Theater
Born
January 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1989 36 years ago — 58 years old
Ailey established a significant presence in American dance, focusing on African-American cultural experiences. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, which became a leading company in modern dance, showcasing a repertoire that celebrated African-American heritage. Ailey's choreography often combined elements from African-American spirituals and modern dance styles. One of the most acclaimed works, 'Revelations,' premiered in 1960 and continues to be performed worldwide, highlighting themes of struggle and triumph. Ailey's innovative approach transformed the landscape of American dance and broadened the appeal of modern dance to include audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Continue ReadingYehudah HaNasi
Rabbi and editor of the Mishnah
Died
December 1st, 217 1808 years ago — None years old
A leading Jewish sage in the late 2nd century, played a crucial role in compiling the Mishnah, a foundational text of Rabbinic Judaism. Acted as a political leader during Roman rule in Judea. His leadership contributed to the preservation and transmission of Jewish law and tradition in a period of significant upheaval. Also known for establishing a religious academy in Tiberias, fostering scholarship.
Continue ReadingMaurice Greene
English organist and composer of church music
Born
August 12th, 1696 329 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1755 270 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1696, a prominent English organist and composer. Served as the organist at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Contributed significantly to the body of sacred music in the early 18th century. Composed several anthems and services, establishing a legacy within English choral music. His works were influential in the development of hymnody and church music during this period.
Continue ReadingCharlie Kerins
Executed Irish Republican leader
Born
January 23rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1944 81 years ago — 26 years old
A prominent member of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), played a significant role in the struggle for Irish independence. Engaged in anti-British activities during the Irish War of Independence, specifically in Dublin. Participated in several key operations against British forces, leading to arrest and trial. Executed by the British government in 1944, which highlighted the ongoing conflict in Ireland during that period.
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