Ella Baker
Civil Rights Activist and Leader
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
B. J. Vorster
South African politician and statesman
Born
December 13th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1983 42 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 4th State President of South Africa from 1966 to 1978. Held various ministerial positions prior to presidency, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Police. Focused on the policies of apartheid, emphasizing security and law enforcement. Promoted the interests of the Afrikaner population and supported strong ties with the United States during the Cold War. His administration faced international criticism and economic sanctions due to apartheid policies.
Continue ReadingMaximilien de Béthune
Duke of Sully and Prime Minister of France
Born
December 13th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1641 384 years ago — 81 years old
Born into nobility, held significant political influence in France. Served as the Duke of Sully and as the second Prime Minister under King Henry IV. Implemented financial reforms that improved the economy and established a centralized administration. Guided policies that aimed to promote peace and stabilize the kingdom after years of civil war. Strengthened the infrastructure, enhancing trade and agricultural production. Influenced the shaping of French policies during the early 17th century.
Continue ReadingKenneth Patchen
American poet and painter
Born
December 13th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1911, a significant figure in American literature and art, worked as both a poet and a painter. Developed a unique style that blended personal emotions with social commentary. Published numerous poetry collections including 'The Journal of Albion Moonlight' and 'The Teeth of the Lion'. Engaged with the Beats and influenced the counterculture of the 1960s. Innovated in mixed media, creating visual poetry that combined text and art.
Continue ReadingAlvin C. York
American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 13th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1964 61 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War I. Achieved fame for leading an assault against German machine gun nests in the Argonne Forest, resulting in significant enemy casualties. The successful operation occurred on October 8, 1918, during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. His bravery and leadership earned the Medal of Honor, awarded by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. Post-war, engaged in various humanitarian efforts, including the establishment of a school in Pall Mall, Tennessee.
Continue ReadingArchduke Louis of Austria
Austrian Archduke and military leader
Born
December 13th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1864 162 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1784, an Archduke of Austria who served as a prominent military figure in the Austrian Empire. Played significant roles in various campaigns during the Napoleonic Wars. Held important commands and contributed to several military strategies aimed at countering French expansion. Also took part in post-war restoration efforts within the empire.
Continue ReadingJames Kyson
American actor in 'Heroes'
Born
December 13th, 1975 50 years ago
An American actor, recognized for significant roles in television and film. Gained prominence for portraying Ando Masahashi in the NBC sci-fi series 'Heroes'. Also appeared in various other television series and films, showcasing a range of characters throughout a thriving career in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 13th
Alan Shields
Artist and Ship Captain
Born
February 4th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2005 20 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1944, this individual was an American artist recognized for contributions to the field of contemporary art and for work as a ship captain. Art practices included painting, printmaking, and installation, often exploring themes of landscape and abstract forms. Exhibited widely across the United States including notable venues such as the Whitney Museum of American Art. Leadership in sailing ventures also highlighted this person's life, merging artistic vision with maritime skills.
Continue ReadingMaimonides
Spanish rabbi and philosopher
Born
March 30th, 1135 890 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1204 821 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent medieval rabbi and philosopher, this figure made significant contributions to Jewish law and philosophy. Born in Córdoba, Spain, in 1135, he later moved to Morocco and then Egypt. His major works include 'Mishneh Torah,' a comprehensive code of Jewish law, and 'Guide for the Perplexed,' which addresses the relationship between religion and philosophy. His writings sought to reconcile religious tradition with rational thought.
Continue ReadingWassily Kandinsky
Abstract painter and art theorist
Born
December 16th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1944 81 years ago — 77 years old
An influential painter and theorist, this individual played a key role in the development of abstract art. Initially trained as a lawyer, the pivot to art occurred while residing in Munich. Early works reflected Impressionist and Post-Impressionist influences, but later compositions exhibited a segment of expressive colors and shapes independent of visual references. Authored several important texts, exploring the relationship between color and sound, and the meaning of abstraction. The individual's contributions were pivotal in shaping modern art movements such as Expressionism and Abstract Expressionism.
Continue ReadingHenry Green
English author of 'Party Going'
Born
October 29th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1973 52 years ago — 68 years old
An English author, celebrated for a unique style that blends modernism with a focus on everyday life. Achieved prominence in the literary scene during the mid-20th century, with a series of novels that delved into the intricacies of British society. Works such as 'Party Going', 'Living', and 'Concluding' explored themes of class and social interactions, showcasing a distinct narrative technique. Contributions to literature included rich character development and innovative use of language, which established a lasting legacy within literary circles.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Volkenrath
Concentration camp supervisor
Born
September 5th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 80 years ago — 26 years old
Supervised prisoners at the women's concentration camp in Ravensbrück during World War II. Held the position of overseer and was involved in the administration of the camp. Volkenrath's role included the enforcement of brutal conditions for inmates. After the war, she faced trial for war crimes.
Continue ReadingAlan Thicke
Television actor and theme music composer
Born
March 1st, 1947 78 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old
Born in Canada, an actor contributed significantly to television during the 1980s and 1990s. Starred as Jason Seaver in the popular sitcom 'Growing Pains,' which aired from 1985 to 1992. Also gained recognition for composing theme music for various television shows, including the iconic theme for 'The Different Strokes.' Pursued a career in both acting and music, becoming a familiar face on American television. Later appeared in reality television projects and talk shows, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until his passing.
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