Charles Étienne Brasseur de Bourbourg
Historian and archaeologist, Mayan studies

Born
September 8th, 1814
210 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1874
151 years ago — 59 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
France
Links & References
Contributed significantly to the study of Mayan civilization and culture. Conducted extensive research in Central America and published works that advanced the understanding of Indigenous history. Participated in archaeological excavations and collected artifacts that provided insights into Mayan society and rituals. His major publication, 'Histoire des Nations Civilisées du Mexique et de l'Amérique Centrale', focused on the history and culture of the region's ancient civilizations.
Conducted archaeological studies in Guatemala
Published 'Histoire des Nations Civilisées du Mexique'
Collected and preserved Mayan artifacts
Other People Born on September 8th
Maria Lassnig
Austrian painter specialized in body awareness and self-portraiture. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and later became a professor at the University of applied Arts in Vienna. Developed a unique style, focusing on the representation of the body through emotional and psychological lenses. Spent years in Paris and New York, where engagement with contemporary art developed significantly. Won the distinguished Grand Austrian State Prize for Fine Arts in 2011, cementing a significant academic career and establishing a legacy in the field of modern painting.
Continue ReadingChristoph von Dohnányi
Born in 1929, a prominent conductor led major orchestras throughout Europe and the United States. Served as music director of the Cleveland Orchestra and the Hamburg State Opera. Conducted many renowned operas and symphonic concerts, contributing significantly to the classical music scene. Received numerous awards for excellence in conducting and interpretative artistry.
Continue ReadingJerzy Robert Nowak
A prominent historian and journalist, contributed to the understanding of Polish history and its complexities. Focused on the socio-political landscape of Poland, particularly before and after World War II. Engaged in various historical publications and lectures, offering insight into critical events that shaped modern Poland. Actively participated in discussions about history and its consequences on contemporary society.
Continue ReadingMarion Brown
This American musician contributed significantly to the avant-garde jazz scene. Born in 1931, he studied at the New England Conservatory of Music and developed a unique style that blended elements of free jazz with distinct melodic sensibilities. Collaborated with numerous influential artists, including Sun Ra and Cecil Taylor, and played a vital role in the New York City jazz community during the 1960s. Released several acclaimed albums, showcasing original compositions that highlighted improvisation and experimentation. His work served as a bridge between traditional jazz and more avant-garde forms, influencing generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingEerik-Niiles Kross
Political career began in the 1990s, contributing to Estonia's transition from Soviet rule to independence. Served as a member of the Estonian Parliament and held various positions in government. Focused on foreign relations, particularly with NATO and the European Union. Appointed as Estonia's ambassador to Finland and later to the United Kingdom, facilitating diplomatic ties. Involved in multiple political parties and played a role in shaping Estonia's post-independence policies.
Continue ReadingAsha Bhosle
A prominent playback singer in India, contributed significantly to the film music industry. Began career in the 1940s and gained fame for versatility in various music genres, including classical, pop, and ghazals. Collaborated with numerous composers and sung in multiple languages, becoming a leading figure in Indian cinema music. Received several awards, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and multiple National Film Awards, recognizing contributions to music over a career spanning decades. Holds a world record for the most recorded artist.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 8th
Maria Teresa de Filippis
Became the first woman to compete in Formula One races during the 1950s. Made her debut in the 1958 Monaco Grand Prix. Participated in a total of three Formula One races, driving for teams such as Maserati. After her brief career in Formula One, she continued to participate in other racing events, demonstrating remarkable skill and determination in a male-dominated sport.
Continue ReadingAimé duc de Clermont-Tonnerre
Served as a general in the French Army and held the position of Minister of Defence. Contributed to military strategies during significant conflicts in France in the 19th century. Engaged in political affairs and helped shape defense policies of the time. Participation in military leadership solidified a legacy within the French military landscape.
Continue ReadingAntonino P. Roman
A lawyer and politician who served in various capacities in the Philippine government. Notably served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1992 to 1995. Also held the position of Provincial Governor of Bataan. Focused on legislative measures while in office, contributing to the development of his constituents and his province. Advocated for reforms in the legal and political systems during his tenure.
Continue ReadingJohn Mauchly
Contributions to the development of electronic computing. Collaborated on the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), one of the first general-purpose electronic digital computers. Worked on various projects related to electronic computing and served as a professor at several institutions. Published numerous papers on computing and related fields, influencing future generations of engineers and computer scientists.
Continue ReadingArcangelo Corelli
Born in 1653, a significant figure in the development of the sonata and concerto genres during the Baroque period. Corelli's compositions emphasized harmony and form, establishing a foundation for future classical music. He served as a violinist and director of music, performing extensively in Rome. Corelli's work was pivotal in setting standards for violin technique and ensemble playing, influencing many later composers.
Continue ReadingMichael Lang
A concert promoter and producer played a pivotal role in organizing the original Woodstock Music and Arts Festival in 1969. This event became a landmark festival that symbolized a generation’s counterculture and passion for music. Lang later contributed to the revival of Woodstock in 1994 and 1999, showcasing a variety of artists and bands from different genres. Through these festivals, a new era of music festivals emerged, influencing the concert promotion industry significantly.
Continue Reading