Ella Baker

Civil Rights Activist and Leader

Ella Baker - Civil Rights Activist and Leader
Born

December 13th, 1903
121 years ago

Died

December 13th, 1986
38 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1903, significant contributions to the civil rights movement occurred throughout the mid-20th century. Assisted in the founding of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960, emphasizing grassroots organizing and leadership development. Worked with organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Advocated for collective decision-making and empowerment within the African American community.

Founded the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee

Worked with the NAACP and SCLC

Other People Born on December 13th

Jane Edna Hunter

Social worker and civil rights advocate
Born
December 13th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1882, a notable African-American social worker focused on improving the lives of African-American women and children. Established the Phillis Wheatley Association in Cleveland, which provided services such as housing, education, and career training. This organization offered a safe space and essential resources that enabled many individuals to improve their social and economic standing. In addition to her work with the association, she played a significant role in civil rights activism throughout her career, advocating for issues affecting her community.

Continue Reading

Jonel Perlea

Conductor and educator with orchestras
Born
December 13th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Romania, a prominent conductor and educator was influential in the music world, especially during the mid-20th century. Conducting various prestigious orchestras, worked extensively in Europe and later in the United States. Held significant positions, including music director of the National Orchestra of Romania. Dedicated a substantial part of career to teaching and mentoring young musicians, contributing to the development of future talents. Worked with various opera companies, enhancing the presentation of classical works.

Continue Reading

Van Heflin

American film actor and Oscar winner
Born
December 13th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1971 54 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure in American cinema, this actor gained recognition for a career that spanned several decades. His work included performances in both film and theater, showcasing a range of characters and emotions. Notably, won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'Shane' in 1953. Often collaborated with esteemed directors and participated in numerous productions that highlighted his versatility. The late actor also made appearances in television series during his career, further solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

King Frederick III of Sicily

Monarch of Sicily and notable ruler
Born
December 13th, 1272 752 years ago
Died
1337 688 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1272, this monarch ruled Sicily during a tumultuous period marked by political struggles and external threats. Ascending to the throne in 1296, his reign witnessed significant efforts to stabilize and govern the island amidst conflicts involving the Papacy and neighboring kingdoms. His administration focused on consolidating power and maintaining peace, striving to unite diverse factions within the realm. He engaged in diplomatic efforts, balancing the interests of powerful entities in Italy and beyond. His reign ended in 1337, following which his legacy was carried on by successors who continued addressing the challenges he faced.

Continue Reading

Aga Khan IV

49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community
Born
December 13th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2025 0 years ago — 88 years old

Assumed leadership as the 49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community in 1957. Focused on the development and education of the Isma'ili community worldwide. Established institutions such as the Aga Khan Development Network to improve health, education, and infrastructure in various countries. Engaged in philanthropic efforts across multiple sectors, including health care, education, and rural development. Advocated for pluralism and the importance of dialogue within various cultures and faiths.

Continue Reading

Annie Dale Biddle Andrews

Mathematician and women's education advocate
Born
December 13th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1885, a mathematician contributed significantly to mathematics education. Worked extensively on improving the status of women in mathematics. Served as the first woman faculty member at the University of North Carolina, focusing on higher education for women. Authored multiple mathematical textbooks and educational materials.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 13th

Charles de La Fosse

French painter, decorated palatial works
Born
1640 385 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1716 308 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent French painter active in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Specializing in decorative art, contributed significantly to the development of French Baroque painting. Worked on several key commissions for royal residences, including the Palace of Versailles. Influenced the artistic direction of the French court with a strong emphasis on grandeur and elegance.

Continue Reading

Ányos Jedlik

Hungarian physicist and engineer
Born
January 11th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1895 129 years ago — 95 years old

Contributed to the fields of physics and engineering in Hungary. Developed the first electric motor and created a method for producing hydrogen gas through electrolysis. Also known for contributions to optics and the study of light. Worked on the scientific development of the telegraph and was involved in educational reforms.

Continue Reading

Johannes Trithemius

German lexicographer and cryptographer
Born
February 1st, 1462 563 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1516 508 years ago — 54 years old

A significant figure in the fields of lexicography and cryptography. Published 'Steganographia' which discussed techniques of secret writing. His works laid foundational principles for later cryptographic methods and practices. Contributed to historical studies with a focus on monastic life. Served as the abbot of the monastery at Sponheim, influencing scholarly activities throughout the region.

Continue Reading

Christian Friedrich Hebbel

German poet and playwright, notable works
Born
March 18th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1863 161 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1813, a German poet and playwright contributed significantly to 19th-century literature. Wrote several notable works, including the plays 'Maria Magdalena' and 'Hereditary Witches'. His poetry reflects strong romantic and existential themes, exploring human emotions and social issues. Hebbel's work showcased innovative use of language and structure in dramatic arts, influencing the evolution of German theater.

Continue Reading

Arthur Wesley Dow

Painter and photographer, art educator
Born
April 6th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1922 102 years ago — 65 years old

A significant figure in American art, contributions included painting and photography, focusing on Asian design principles and their influence on Western art. Dow served as an educator, teaching at various institutions, including the Teacher's College at Columbia University. His written works, particularly 'Composition: A Series of Exercises in Art Structure for Students of All Art', provided guidance on artistic practice and education. Dow's approach emphasized harmony, balance, and beauty in composition.

Continue Reading

David Wheeler

Computer Scientist; developed early programming
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2004 20 years ago — 77 years old

English computer scientist contributed significantly to the development of programming languages and computer architecture. Developed the concepts of the subroutine and the use of binary numbers in computing. Pioneered work on the Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Computer (EDSAC), one of the first stored-program computers. His academic career included positions at the University of Cambridge, where he influenced generations of students and researchers in the field of computer science.

Continue Reading