Clare of Assisi
Italian nun and founder of the Poor Clares
A prominent figure in the Franciscan movement, founded the Order of Poor Ladies, known as the Poor Clares, in 1212. Inspired by the teachings of Francis of Assisi, devoted life to poverty and service. Established a monastic community in San Damiano, which emphasized a simple lifestyle and prayer. Canonized as a saint in 1255, recognized for her deep spirituality and commitment to the Franciscan ideals.
Founded the Order of Poor Clares
Canonized as a saint in 1255
Other People Born on July 16th
Jerry Norman
Sinologist and linguist specializing in Chinese
Born
July 16th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
July 7th, 2012 13 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent sinologist and linguist contributed significantly to the study of Chinese languages. Focused on documenting and analyzing various Chinese dialects, highlighted the diversity and complexity of the language. Authored several notable works on Chinese phonetics and grammar, which are widely used in academic settings. Held positions at prestigious universities and participated in numerous linguistic conferences, influencing the field of sinology through research and mentorship. His scholarly work continues to be referenced by students and experts alike.
Continue ReadingLarry Sanger
Co-founder of Wikipedia and Citizendium
Born
July 16th, 1968 57 years ago
A philosopher and businessman co-founded Wikipedia in 2001, contributing significantly to the establishment of online collaborative knowledge. Later, in 2006, co-founded Citizendium, an initiative aimed at improving the reliability of online information through expert oversight. Sanger emphasized the importance of credible sources and the involvement of experts in the knowledge creation process.
Continue ReadingBryan Budd
Victoria Cross recipient and soldier
Born
July 16th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 29 years old
Born in Northern Ireland, an English soldier served in the British Army with great distinction. Demonstrated exceptional bravery during combat in Afghanistan in 2006. The soldier's actions during a firefight resulted in the saving of comrades' lives at great personal risk. Posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor for valor in the UK, in recognition of extraordinary courage in the face of the enemy. His service is commemorated for its exemplary leadership and dedication.
Continue ReadingBess Myerson
Miss America 1945 and television personality
Born
July 16th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
A model and television personality, represented the United States as Miss America 1945. Served as a panelist on various game shows, including 'The Big Payoff' and 'I've Got a Secret'. Advocated for social issues and worked in public service, especially focusing on the importance of education and civil rights. Engaged in activism throughout life, contributing to a variety of charitable organizations.
Continue ReadingRobert Sheckley
Author and screenwriter of science fiction
Born
July 16th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2005 20 years ago — 77 years old
An American author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. Published numerous short stories and novels that explored satire and absurdity in futuristic settings. Gained recognition for the novel 'The Status Civilization', which received acclaim for its originality and humor. Worked in television and film, adapting works for screen, and was influential among peers in speculative fiction. Continued to write until the later years of life.
Continue ReadingShoeless Joe Jackson
Baseball player with Chicago White Sox
Born
July 16th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1951 74 years ago — 64 years old
An American baseball player played primarily for the Chicago White Sox in the early 20th century. Jackson gained notoriety for his exceptional hitting skills and was a key player in the 1919 World Series. Controversy surrounded his career due to his involvement in the Black Sox Scandal, which led to his ban from Major League Baseball. Despite this, he maintained a reputation for being one of the best hitters of his time. After his playing career, he briefly managed a minor league team. His life and career have been the subject of various analyses regarding ethics in sports.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 11th
Archbishop Flavian of Constantinople
Archbishop and theological leader
Died
August 11th, 449 1576 years ago — None years old
Served as the Archbishop of Constantinople from 446 until 449. Played a significant role in the theological disputes of the time, particularly against the Monophysite doctrine. Presided over the Second Council of Ephesus in 449, which led to significant controversies. Died shortly after the council, facing great opposition and suffering.
Continue ReadingJean Papineau-Couture
Canadian composer and academic
Born
November 12th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2000 25 years ago — 83 years old
Contributions to Canadian music included composition, teaching, and academic roles. Involved in the development of contemporary music in Canada through various organizations. Notably served as a faculty member at several institutions, influencing generations of musicians. Established a significant body of work that features orchestral, choral, and chamber music. Acknowledged for contributions to music education and composition.
Continue ReadingOtto Wahle
Swimmer and Olympic coach
Born
November 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1963 62 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Austria, a swimmer relocated to the United States. Competed at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, finishing fourth in the 200m freestyle. Later established a successful coaching career, mentoring numerous swimmers. Contributed to the growth of competitive swimming in America and developed training techniques for aspiring athletes.
Continue ReadingArmand Borel
Mathematician and academic leader
Born
May 21st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2003 22 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Switzerland, an influential mathematician contributed significantly to topology and algebraic groups. Served as a professor at Princeton University and held positions in various mathematical organizations. Published numerous papers and collaborated with leading mathematicians, shaping the field of modern mathematics. Actively engaged in promoting mathematics through education and mentorship.
Continue ReadingEnrico Betti
Mathematician and academic in Italy
Born
1813 213 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1892 133 years ago — 79 years old
Contributions to mathematics focused on topology and differential equations. Developed the Betti numbers, which are important in algebraic topology. Served in prominent academic roles including a professorship at the University of Pisa. Authored several significant papers that advanced the understanding of the field. Theorems on the existence of solutions to differential equations are considered foundational.
Continue ReadingJohn Henry Newman
English cardinal and theologian
Born
February 21st, 1801 224 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1890 135 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1801, this figure contributed significantly to the Catholic Church and Anglicanism. He became a prominent leader in the Oxford Movement, aiming to reform the Church of England. In 1845, he converted to Catholicism and was later ordained as a priest. He was elevated to cardinal in 1879, becoming a significant theological voice in the Church. The individual founded the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in Birmingham and played a key role in establishing the Catholic University of Ireland, now University College Dublin. The individual was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2019.
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