Elbert Frank Cox

Mathematician, first African American PhD

Elbert Frank Cox - Mathematician, first African American PhD
Born

December 5th, 1895
129 years ago

Died

1969
56 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A mathematician and academic, he earned the first PhD in Mathematics awarded to an African American in 1925 from Cornell University. A long career in academia included positions at various institutions, focusing on teaching and research in mathematics. Active in promoting education and opportunities for African Americans in higher education, he contributed to the development of mathematics as a field during the mid-20th century. His legacy includes mentoring countless students and advocating for diversity in mathematics.

First African American to earn a PhD in Mathematics

Taught at historically black colleges and universities

Other People Born on December 5th

Arthur Currie

Canadian general and military leader
Born
December 5th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1933 91 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent Canadian military leader, served with distinction during World War I. Became the first Canadian commander of the Canadian Corps in 1917. Oversaw several significant battles, including the Battle of Vimy Ridge, which occurred in April 1917. Instrumental in the development of tactics that utilized combined arms and innovation in warfare. Played a vital role in the Hundred Days Offensive, leading to the end of the war. Post-war, emphasized the importance of military training and preparation.

Continue Reading

Ravish Kumar

Indian journalist and author
Born
December 5th, 1974 50 years ago

Renowned for work in television journalism and digital media. Contributions to journalism include investigative reporting and discussions on socio-political issues in India. Authored several books on media and politics, exploring the intersection of journalism and democracy. Engaged audiences through programs that highlight marginalized voices and critical societal issues.

Continue Reading

Bruce Golding

Jamaican lawyer and politician
Born
December 5th, 1947 77 years ago

Served as the 8th Prime Minister of Jamaica from 2007 to 2011. Before entering politics, held various legal and political roles, including Member of Parliament. Contributed to the development of policies focused on crime reduction and economic growth during tenure as Prime Minister. Resigned from the premiership amid challenges related to law enforcement and governance.

Continue Reading

Fritz Lang

Film director of Metropolis and M
Born
December 5th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1976 49 years ago — 85 years old

Austrian-American director, producer, and screenwriter played a significant role in the development of film noir and science fiction. Early career began in Germany, where notable works included 'Metropolis' (1927), a pioneering science fiction film, and 'M' (1931), a landmark psychological thriller. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s, continuing to influence the cinematic landscape with films like 'Fury' (1936) and 'You Only Live Once' (1937). His innovative storytelling and visual style left a lasting impact on the film industry.

Continue Reading

Fausto Sozzini

Italian theologian and educator
Born
December 5th, 1539 485 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1604 421 years ago — 64 years old

Sozzini contributed significantly to theological discourse, focusing on anti-Trinitarianism. Engaged in debates regarding the nature of God and Christ, he advanced rationalist thought. His works laid foundational ideas for later theological developments, influencing various groups including the Socinians. Sozzini also emphasized the importance of reason and morality in faith, advocating for a more rational approach to religious belief. His educational efforts were notable in shaping the understanding of Protestant theology in the late 16th century.

Continue Reading

Matthew Taylor

Businessman and politician involved in public policy
Born
December 5th, 1960 64 years ago

Born in December 1960, this individual has contributed to both business and public policy in the UK. As a prominent figure in the Labour Party, served as Chief Executive of the RSA (Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce) and worked on initiatives to drive social innovation and civic engagement. He held leadership positions in various organizations, influencing discourse on the future of work and social justice. Additionally, he has been involved in advisory roles for government projects, focusing on public sector reform and economic strategy.

Continue Reading