Eknath Easwaran

Educator and author of spiritual books

Eknath Easwaran - Educator and author of spiritual books
Born

December 17th, 1910
114 years ago

Died

October 26th, 1999
25 years ago — 88 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An educator and author focused on introducing meditation and spiritual traditions from the East to the West. Founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, which promotes the practice of meditation and offers programs for self-improvement. Wrote several books, including 'Experiencing the Bhagavad Gita' and 'Meditation: A Simple Eight-Point Program for Translating Spiritual Ideals into Daily Life,' which emphasize practical spirituality and personal growth. Developed a unique method of meditation that has been taught worldwide.

Founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation

Authored 'Experiencing the Bhagavad Gita'

Wrote 'Meditation: A Simple Eight-Point Program'

Other People Born on December 17th

Sarah Paulson

Actress best known for 'American Horror Story'
Born
December 17th, 1974 50 years ago

An American actress, active since the late 1990s, gained prominence through work in television and film. Achieved recognition for performances in the anthology series 'American Horror Story', contributing to its critical acclaim. Portrayed various characters across multiple seasons of the series, showcasing versatility and depth. Starred in the acclaimed miniseries 'The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story', earning a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series. Also featured in films such as '12 Years a Slave' and 'Carol', which further highlighted acting skills.

Continue Reading

David Rudisha

Kenyan middle-distance runner, Olympic Champion
Born
December 17th, 1988 36 years ago

Born in Kenya in 1988, this middle-distance runner specializes in the 800 meters. Achieved global recognition during the 2012 London Olympics, winning the gold medal and setting a world record of 1:40.91, which still stands. The athlete also claimed victory at the 2016 Rio Olympics, successfully defending the title. Over his career, multiple World Championship titles were secured, establishing a dominant presence in the 800-meter event.

Continue Reading

Fernando Lopes-Graça

Portuguese composer and conductor
Born
December 17th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1994 30 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in Portuguese music, contributed significantly to the national music scene. Composed numerous orchestral works, choral pieces, and songs drawing from Portuguese folk traditions. Served as a conductor and championed the works of other composers. Engaged in music education and the dissemination of cultural heritage through music. Established institutions that supported Portuguese music education and performance.

Continue Reading

Calvin Waller

American general and military leader
Born
December 17th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 59 years old

Calvin Waller served as a United States Army general. He held key positions during his career, including Commanding General of the United States Army in Europe. Waller also played a significant role during pivotal moments in the Cold War era, focusing on NATO operations and international military collaboration. His leadership was instrumental during various exercises and deployments that shaped the organization and readiness of U.S. forces abroad. After retirement, Waller continued to contribute to military education and policy discussions.

Continue Reading

Émilie du Châtelet

Mathematician and physicist, contributed to energy
Born
December 17th, 1706 318 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1749 275 years ago — 42 years old

Contributions to mathematics and physics included significant work on kinetic energy and the conservation of energy. Translated and commented on Isaac Newton's 'Principia Mathematica', expanding its reach and accessibility. Developed a mathematical framework for understanding energy which laid groundwork for later scientific developments. Engaged in philosophical discourse, advocating for women's education and scientific inquiry.

Continue Reading

Anthony Wood

English historian and author
Born
December 17th, 1632 392 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1695 329 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1632, a prominent historian and author focused on documenting the history of Oxford. Published notable works including 'The History and Antiquities of the University of Oxford', which provided detailed accounts of the university's origins, growth, and notable figures. His methodologies influenced future historical research, emphasizing primary sources and personal accounts. His contributions significantly shaped the understanding of early modern English history.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 26th

Philip Doddridge

English hymn-writer and educator
Born
June 26th, 1702 323 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1751 273 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent hymn-writer and educator in England, contributed significantly to 18th-century evangelicalism. Established a dissenting academy in Northampton, which became influential in training Nonconformist ministers. Authored several influential works, including 'The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul' and more than 400 hymns, many of which remain in use today. Advocacy for religious education had a lasting impact on Nonconformist thought.

Continue Reading

Harry Payne Whitney

Businessman and lawyer; founder of Whitney Museum
Born
April 29th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1930 94 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent American businessman and lawyer contributed significantly to various industries. Established Whitney & Company, which focused on financial services and investments. Engaged in philanthropy and played a vital role in the arts, including founding the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City, dedicated to 20th-century American art. Served as a director for several companies and participated actively in the family business.

Continue Reading

Björn Sieber

Austrian skier and competitor
Born
1989 36 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2012 12 years ago — 23 years old

Competed in alpine skiing, specifically in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. Achieved prominence in various international skiing competitions throughout the career. Participated in multiple World Cup events and earned several top finishes against elite competitors. Regarded for contributions to the sport, showcasing skillful performance on challenging slopes.

Continue Reading

Gorni Kramer

Italian bassist and bandleader
Born
July 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1995 29 years ago — 82 years old

Pioneer of jazz music in Italy with significant contributions as a bassist and bandleader. Formed and led the popular band Quartetto di Gorni Kramer, which combined traditional Italian music with jazz influences. Collaborated with notable musicians and participated in various music festivals across Italy. In the 1950s, involved in the popularization of jazz through radio programs and performances, cementing a legacy in the Italian music scene.

Continue Reading

Gilles de Rais

French knight and military leader
Born
1404 621 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1440 584 years ago — 36 years old

A prominent military captain and nobleman in the service of Charles VII of France, this individual gained recognition for heroic contributions during the Hundred Years' War. Instrumental in the Siege of Orléans, played a crucial role in the lifting of the siege, significantly aiding in the French victory against the English. After the war, involvement in various political and military affairs defined his later years, but legacy became overshadowed by criminal activity and trials that led to execution for grave offenses. The life transitioned from valor on the battlefield to notoriety in later years.

Continue Reading

Bobby Ávila

Mexican MLB player and All-Star second baseman
Born
April 2nd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2004 20 years ago — 80 years old

This baseball player began his career in the Mexican League before joining Major League Baseball. He played primarily as a second baseman for the Cleveland Indians, achieving notable success during the 1950s. His playing style showcased strong defensive skills and a notable batting average, contributing to the team's performance. In 1954, he was selected as an All-Star, representing the American League. His achievements included winning a batting title and becoming a significant figure in baseball history, especially for Mexican players looking to enter the league.

Continue Reading