Charles Yerkes

American financier and railroad magnate

Charles Yerkes - American financier and railroad magnate
Born

1837
188 years ago

Died

December 29th, 1905
119 years ago — 68 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent financier and railroad magnate, major contributions included the development of the Chicago transit system. Yerkes played a significant role in expanding the streetcar network in Chicago and was instrumental in the formation of the Chicago Elevated Railroad Company. Significant achievements included the construction of the first elevated rail lines in Chicago, helping to enhance urban transportation during the late 19th century. Financial and operational strategies employed during this period reshaped public transit in the city, fostering growth and accessibility.

Developed the Chicago transit system

Expanded the streetcar network in Chicago

Instrumental in forming the Chicago Elevated Railroad Company

Other People Who Died on December 29th

David Levine

American artist, illustrator, caricaturist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2009 15 years ago — 83 years old

An American artist and illustrator, achieved recognition for caricatures published in The New York Review of Books. Engaged with political and cultural themes, and contributed to the dialogue on contemporary issues through art. Created distinctive portraits that combined humor with sharp social commentary, illustrating leading figures from various fields including politics, literature, and science. Worked prolifically throughout a decades-long career, gaining acclaim for both artistic skill and insightful representations.

Continue Reading

Constance Bartlett Hieatt

American scholar and linguistic expert
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2011 13 years ago — 83 years old

Constance Bartlett Hieatt contributed significantly to the field of linguistics and medieval studies. Hieatt focused on Old and Middle English literature, providing insights into various texts from these periods. Hieatt was a professor at both the University of Toronto and the University of Alberta, where her work influenced studies in medieval language and literature. She edited and authored several important works, enhancing the understanding of gender roles in medieval texts. Hieatt's expertise also extended to the analysis of dialects and semantics in linguistics.

Continue Reading

Sebastian Castellio

French theologian and religious reformer
Born
1515 510 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1563 461 years ago — 48 years old

A French preacher and theologian engaged in the Protestant Reformation, Castellio advocated for religious tolerance and freedom of conscience. He studied under John Calvin in Geneva and initially supported Calvin's doctrine. However, Castellio later disagreed with the harsh measures taken against heretics. He translated the Bible into French and emphasized the need for a compassionate understanding of different beliefs. His writings sought to promote peace and dialogue among various religious factions. His most notable work, "De Haeretico Comburendo," argued against the execution of heretics, marking a significant shift in the approach to religious dissent at the time.

Continue Reading

Tony Greig

Cricketer and sportscaster.
Born
October 6th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 66 years old

A cricketer and sportscaster, became a prominent figure in cricket during the 1970s and 1980s. Played as an all-rounder for the England national team, earning recognition for both batting and bowling skills. Captained England during the 1975 Ashes series and participated in the inaugural Cricket World Cup in 1975. Transitioned to a successful broadcasting career after retirement, providing commentary and analysis for various networks, becoming a familiar voice in cricket media. Greig's insights and enthusiasm for the game contributed to his popularity as a sportscaster.

Continue Reading

Hermann Paul

German philologist, linguist, lexicographer
Born
1846 179 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1921 103 years ago — 75 years old

Worked extensively in the fields of linguistics and philology. Published influential works on the German language, contributing to the understanding of its structure and evolution. Played a significant role in lexicographic efforts, particularly with the 'Deutsches Wörterbuch'. Engaged in educational reforms and taught various levels of linguistic studies. Contributed to scholarly studies on language theory and analysis.

Continue Reading

Søren Christian Sommerfelt

Norwegian botanist and priest
Born
April 9th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1838 186 years ago — 44 years old

A Norwegian priest and botanist contributed significantly to the study of plants, focusing on flora from Norway and nearby regions. Involved in the classification of plant species, published works included descriptions and observations of various plants. Actively engaged in academic communities, fostering interest in botany among peers and students. Served as a member of the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters, supporting scientific endeavors within the country. Encouraged research and exploration of plant life through educational initiatives.

Continue Reading