Dion Boucicault
Irish actor and playwright
An influential figure in 19th-century theater, contributed significantly to the development of modern melodrama. Wrote and produced several popular plays, including 'The Octoroon' and 'The Shaughraun'. Gained prominence for performances in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Also worked as a director and was involved in theatrical innovations of the time.
Wrote 'The Octoroon'
Wrote 'The Shaughraun'
Developed modern melodrama
Other People Born on December 26th
Johann Georg Pisendel
German violinist and composer
Born
December 26th, 1687 338 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1755 270 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1687, a prominent violinist and composer of the Baroque era. Studied under renowned musicians and developed a notable career in violin performance. Held the position of concertmaster at the Dresden court, influencing the musical landscape of the time. Composed several sonatas, concertos, and orchestral works. Collaborated with other prominent composers, including Johann Sebastian Bach.
Continue ReadingPrince Josias of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
Prince and Military Leader of Saxe-Coburg
Born
December 26th, 1737 288 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1815 210 years ago — 77 years old
Held the title of Prince of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld and served as a military officer. Participated in the Napoleonic Wars, particularly noted for contributions to the campaigns against France. Involved in various military engagements during the early 19th century, demonstrating leadership and strategic skills.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Rallis
Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
December 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old
Served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1974 to 1977 following the fall of the military junta. Rallis was a prominent figure in the political landscape of Greece during a crucial period of transition to democracy. His tenure was marked by efforts to stabilize the nation and promote economic growth. Rallis was a member of the New Democracy party, which played a significant role in the re-establishment of democratic governance in Greece after years of authoritarian rule. After leaving office, he remained active in politics until his later years.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Xylander
German scholar and translator of classics
Born
December 26th, 1532 493 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1576 449 years ago — 43 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of classical texts and languages. Xylander translated works from Greek and Latin into German, making them more accessible to the scholarly community and students. His efforts included translations of well-known classical authors and philosophers, which facilitated the spread of humanist ideas in Germany during the Renaissance period. Xylander also held academic positions in various institutions, influencing the education of future scholars.
Continue ReadingJean François de Saint-Lambert
French soldier and philosopher, poet
Born
December 26th, 1716 309 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1803 222 years ago — 86 years old
A soldier and philosopher from France, contributed significantly to 18th-century literature and philosophical thought. Developed a notable reputation in the realms of poetry and philosophy, producing works that discussed love, nature, and the human condition. In addition to literary contributions, served in the military and participated in various campaigns, showcasing a commitment to both artistic expression and martial duty. His influence extended to friendships with prominent figures of the Enlightenment, engaging in intellectual discourse that shaped contemporary thought.
Continue ReadingAlamgir Kabir
Bangladeshi film director and screenwriter
Born
December 26th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1989 37 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent Bangladeshi director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual significantly contributed to the country's film industry. Working in the 1970s and 1980s, created notable films that explored social themes and cultural issues. Contributions included involvement with the film 'A River Named Titas' and other cinematic works that reflected the struggles of the Bangladeshi people. This person's work is celebrated for its artistic integrity and thought-provoking narratives, influencing a generation of filmmakers in Bangladesh.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 18th
Adélard Godbout
Canadian politician and agronomist
Born
September 24th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1956 69 years ago — 63 years old
An agronomist and politician, served as the 15th Premier of Québec from 1936 to 1939 and again from 1944 to 1948. Focused on agrarian policies, agricultural production, and rural education reforms. Worked to improve agricultural practices and community development within Québec, enhancing the quality of life in rural areas. Contributed to the foundation of cooperative organizations and the modernization of agriculture in the province.
Continue ReadingJolidee Matongo
Politician, 97th Mayor of Johannesburg
Born
1975 51 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2021 4 years ago — 46 years old
Served as the 97th Mayor of Johannesburg from 2021 until death in September 2021. Before becoming mayor, held positions within the African National Congress and local government structures, contributing to various community initiatives and governance reforms. Participated actively in addressing issues such as housing, urban development, and social services during tenure. Worked on enhancing the delivery of basic services to residents in Johannesburg. His term was marked by a commitment to improve living conditions in the city.
Continue ReadingHippolyte Fizeau
French physicist and academic
Born
September 23rd, 1819 206 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1896 129 years ago — 76 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics in the 19th century. Developed innovative methods for measuring the speed of light and proposed the Fizeau formula for calculating the speed of light in a medium. Conducted experiments that solidified the wave theory of light. Fizeau also served as a professor of physics and played a major role in the advancement of scientific education in France.
Continue ReadingF. H. Bradley
English philosopher and author
Born
1846 180 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1924 101 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent figure in British idealism, contributed significantly to metaphysical thought. Authored works such as 'Appearance and Reality', which explored the nature of reality and perception. Engaged with the ideas of G.W.F. Hegel and emphasized the interconnection of experience and existence. Held the position of Professor of Logic and Metaphysics at the University of Aberystwyth, impacting philosophical discussions for decades.
Continue ReadingJimi Hendrix
Rock guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
November 27th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1970 55 years ago — 27 years old
A prominent figure in rock music, this guitarist revolutionized the genre with innovative techniques and memorable performances. Rising to fame in the late 1960s, he founded the Jimi Hendrix Experience and produced iconic albums such as 'Are You Experienced?' and 'Axis: Bold as Love'. Renowned for a unique blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia, noteworthy live performances included his rendition of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' at Woodstock in 1969. His style and flair set a new standard for electric guitar playing and influenced countless musicians.
Continue ReadingLouis VII
King of France during the Crusades
Born
1120 906 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1180 845 years ago — 60 years old
A monarch of the Capetian dynasty, held the throne from 1137 until 1180. Led the French during the Second Crusade from 1147 to 1149. Experienced conflicts with rival factions, notably the Plantagenets and struggled to strengthen royal authority. His marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine initially expanded French territory, but the union ended in annulment in 1152, leading to significant territorial losses. His reign also witnessed efforts to reorganize the kingdom's administration and secure his legacy.
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