Edith Cavell

Nurse and humanitarian during WWI

Edith Cavell - Nurse and humanitarian during WWI
Born

December 4th, 1865
159 years ago

Died

October 12th, 1915
109 years ago — 49 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Worked as a nurse in Belgium during World War I, providing care to wounded soldiers from both the Allied and German forces. Established the first nursing school in Belgium and played a pivotal role in developing nursing practices. Assisted over two hundred Allied soldiers in escaping German-occupied Belgium, leading to her arrest. Executed by a German firing squad in 1915, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals during wartime. Her legacy extends through numerous memorials and the continued recognition of her contributions to nursing and humanitarian efforts.

Founded the first nursing school in Belgium

Helped over 200 Allied soldiers escape

Executed for her humanitarian work

Other People Born on December 4th

Eddie Heywood

American pianist and composer
Born
December 4th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 74 years old

Came to prominence as a jazz pianist and composer during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for a unique style that combined elements of jazz and popular music. Worked with notable musicians and performed in various venues, influencing the jazz scene of his time. Released several recordings, achieving commercial success with hits that remain classics. Contributed to the development of jazz through compositions and performances that resonated with audiences.

Continue Reading

Cornell Woolrich

American author known for suspense novels
Born
December 4th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1968 56 years ago — 64 years old

An influential American author, contributed significantly to the genre of suspense fiction. Wrote major works in the mid-20th century, including 'Rear Window' and 'The Bride Wore Black.' His writing often featured dark themes and complex characters. Many stories adapted into films, demonstrating a lasting influence on the thriller genre. Worked during a time when the pulp magazine market thrived, producing numerous short stories and novels that captivated readers.

Continue Reading

Heinrich Meibom

German poet and historian
Born
December 4th, 1555 469 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1625 399 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1555, this individual contributed significantly to both poetry and the study of history during the 16th century. His works often combined narrative and scholarly research, focusing on themes of culture and knowledge. As a poet, he utilized innovative styles that resonated with the literary circles of his time. His historical writings examined ancient sources and provided insights into past civilizations, enhancing the understanding of historical contexts. This individual's contributions helped shape the poetic and historiographical landscapes in Germany.

Continue Reading

Tyra Banks

Model and television producer
Born
December 4th, 1973 51 years ago

This individual rose to prominence as a model, notably walking the runway for Victoria’s Secret. Transitioning into television, produced and hosted the reality show 'America's Next Top Model', which showcased aspiring models and judged their performance. Additionally, starred in the film 'Coyote Ugly', contributing to a successful career in entertainment. This individual also established a production company focusing on diverse storytelling.

Continue Reading

Shannon Briggs

Professional boxer and actor
Born
December 4th, 1971 53 years ago

A professional boxer and actor, gained prominence in the heavyweight division. Held the WBO heavyweight title from 1997 to 1998. Notable for a successful career in boxing, culminating in more than 60 wins, including 53 by knockout. Transitioned to acting, appearing in films such as 'Bad Boys' and 'The Last Dragon.' His boxing career is marked by fierce competition and a distinctive personality in the ring.

Continue Reading

Raul Boesel

Race car driver and radio host
Born
December 4th, 1957 67 years ago

Brazilian race car driver achieved prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Competed in various motorsport events including the Formula E and the IndyCar series. Secured victories in several important races, becoming a well-regarded figure in the racing community. Transitioned to a career in radio hosting after retiring from professional racing, continuing to engage audiences with insights into motorsport.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 12th

Oscar Hijuelos

American author of 'The Mambo Kings'
Born
August 24th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2013 11 years ago — 62 years old

An American author and academic, this individual gained recognition for literary works that explored the immigrant experience. The debut novel, 'The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love', released in 1989, garnered widespread acclaim and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1990. This work tells the story of two Cuban brothers who emigrated to America and sought success in the world of music. Alongside fiction, significant contributions to literature also included essays and stories that reflected the complexities of cultural identity. An academic career complemented the literary pursuits, teaching at various universities and contributing to dialogues on Latin American literature.

Continue Reading

Bill Shoemaker

Jockey and author with multiple wins
Born
August 19th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2003 21 years ago — 72 years old

Achieved prominent success in horse racing, becoming one of the most celebrated jockeys in history. Won a record 8,833 races during a career spanning over four decades. Victories included the Kentucky Derby four times and the Preakness Stakes twice. Besides racing, authored works reflecting on experiences in the sport. Inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1958.

Continue Reading

Alf Landon

American politician and governor of Kansas
Born
September 9th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1987 37 years ago — 100 years old

Served as the 26th Governor of Kansas from 1933 to 1937. Landon pursued a career in banking prior to entering politics, which established his financial expertise. In 1936, Landon was the Republican Party's nominee for President of the United States but lost to Franklin D. Roosevelt. His political career included efforts to modernize state operations and reform government functions in Kansas.

Continue Reading

Anatole France

French novelist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 16th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1924 100 years ago — 80 years old

Born on April 16, 1844, a French journalist, novelist, and poet contributed significantly to literature. The writer gained recognition for works that explored themes of education, political corruption, and social issues. Notable works include 'Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard' and 'Les Dieux ont soif'. In 1921, received the Nobel Prize in Literature for literary achievements, which reflected a mastery of style and an intellectual approach to storytelling. France's writings had a lasting impact on the literary world and often engaged with philosophical inquiries.

Continue Reading

Paul Hermann Müller

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 12th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1965 59 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of insecticides. Developed dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), which became widely used during World War II for pest control and later in agriculture. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1948 for this discovery. Worked in academia and industry throughout the career, contributing to the understanding of chemical compounds and their effects on health and the environment.

Continue Reading

Frank Vandenbroucke

Cyclist with multiple Grand Tour victories
Born
November 6th, 1974 50 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2009 15 years ago — 34 years old

A Belgian cyclist achieved significant success in road racing during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Vandenbroucke won the prestigious 1999 Paris-Nice race and claimed victory in the 2000 Tour of Flanders. His career also included notable achievements in one-day races. His talents were evident when he also secured stages in major tours, showcasing prowess in both climbing and sprinting. Vandenbroucke represented several professional teams, including Mapei and Cofidis, and garnered attention for his performances in both the Grand Tours and World Championships. Despite personal challenges, his cycling abilities earned him recognition in the sport. Vandenbroucke's legacy includes contributions to the competitive cycling scene in Belgium.

Continue Reading