Erich Ludendorff

German military leader and political figure

Erich Ludendorff - German military leader and political figure
Born

April 9th, 1865
160 years ago

Died

December 20th, 1937
87 years ago — 72 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

Germany

Links & References

Became a prominent German general during World War I, serving as the chief of staff of the German Army. Implemented significant military strategies that influenced the course of the war. After the war, served in various political roles and was involved in post-war German politics, including participation in nationalist movements and opposition to the Weimar Republic. Authored several works that outlined his military strategies and theories.

Served as First Quartermaster General during WWI

Co-authored the Ludendorff Offensive

Other People Born on April 9th

Simon Brown

English judge and legal authority
Born
April 9th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1937, this individual served as a lieutenant, lawyer, and judge. Educated at the University of Oxford, gained prominence in the legal system through various high-profile cases. Served as a Lord Justice of Appeal, contributing to the development of legal principles within the British judiciary. Appointed to the House of Lords in 1994, focusing on issues related to law and justice.

Continue Reading

Joshua Ledet

American singer and American Idol finalist
Born
April 9th, 1992 33 years ago

A prominent American singer, achieved recognition as a finalist on the eleventh season of American Idol. Showcased a powerful vocal range and a soulful performance style throughout the competition. Released a self-titled EP that features a blend of original songs and covers. Gained considerable attention for performances of songs such as 'When a Man Loves a Woman' and 'You Raise Me Up'.

Continue Reading

Thomas Johann Seebeck

Physicist known for thermoelectricity
Born
April 9th, 1770 255 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1831 193 years ago — 61 years old

This physicist contributed significantly to the field of thermoelectricity. In 1821, conducted experiments that led to the discovery of the thermoelectric effect. This phenomenon describes how a voltage is generated in a wire when subjected to a temperature difference. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin and contributed to the understanding of magnetic fields and their effects on electrical circuits. Published various scientific papers that laid foundational principles in physics.

Continue Reading

Keshia Knight Pulliam

Actress known for role in The Cosby Show
Born
April 9th, 1979 46 years ago

An actress gained recognition for portraying Rudy Huxtable on the television series The Cosby Show, which aired from 1984 to 1992. The role made the character one of the most beloved children on the show and contributed to her early fame. Additionally, she appeared in various other television series and films, including Tyler Perry's Madea Goes to Jail. Pulliam has also participated in reality television, competing in The Celebrity Apprentice.

Continue Reading

Tom Lehrer

Singer-songwriter and mathematician
Born
April 9th, 1928 97 years ago

A mathematician and satirical songwriter, this individual gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s for wit and musical style. Renowned for blending humor with sharp societal commentary, numerous songs addressed topics such as politics, science, and morality. As a notable performer, showcased talents in both music and mathematics, teaching at institutions like the University of California, Santa Barbara. Frequently performed at colleges and events, building a devoted following. The song 'The Elements' is recognized for its clever and educational lyrics.

Continue Reading

Rafaela Aparicio

Spanish actress in film and theater
Born
April 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Madrid, this actress began her career in the theatrical scene before transitioning to film. She appeared in numerous Spanish films and became a recognizable figure in the industry. Her performances in comedy and drama showcased her range as an actress. The career spanned several decades, and she participated in classic Spanish cinema, contributing to the cultural landscape of the time.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 20th

Augustus Quirinus Rivinus

Physician and botanist, Plant Taxonomy
Born
December 9th, 1652 372 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1723 301 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent physician and botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany during the 17th century. Developed a systematic approach to plant classification, which influenced future botanical studies. Authored several publications that laid the groundwork for modern plant taxonomy. His work emphasized the importance of morphological features in classifying plants, which became a foundation for future botanists. Engaged in the study of medicinal plants and their uses in medicine, merging botanical research with practical applications in healthcare.

Continue Reading

John Steinbeck

Author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 27th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1968 56 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1902, an American author and journalist wrote novels reflecting the social conditions of his time. Major works include 'The Grapes of Wrath', which depicts the struggles of Dust Bowl migrants, and 'Of Mice and Men', telling the story of two displaced ranch workers. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1962 for his realistic and imaginative writings. Also wrote screenplays, including the adaptation of 'Grapes of Wrath' into a film. Steinbeck explored themes of injustice, loneliness, and the quest for dignity.

Continue Reading

John Bell

American farmer
Born
1750 275 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1820 204 years ago — 70 years old

This individual operated as a farmer and played a significant role in agricultural practices in the early 19th century. Contributions included advancements in farming techniques and participation in local farming communities. Was instrumental in advocating for agricultural improvements and innovations during a time of change in the United States. Engaged in various agricultural initiatives that aimed to support and improve local farming conditions.

Continue Reading

Robert Mulligan

Film director and producer of To Kill a Mockingbird
Born
August 23rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent American director and producer, recognized for contributions to film during the mid-20th century. Debuted with the 1957 film 'Fear Strikes Out'. Gained acclaim for directing 'To Kill a Mockingbird' in 1962, which received three Academy Awards and remains a classic in American cinema. Worked on various adaptations, impacting the genre of literary cinematic adaptations. Collaborated with notable actors and screenwriters, solidifying a reputation within the industry through a string of successful films and a distinctive directorial style.

Continue Reading

Riccardo Freda

Film director and screenwriter of horror
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1999 25 years ago — 90 years old

An Egyptian-Italian director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the horror genre in Italian cinema. Early career included working in various roles within the film industry. Gained recognition for horror films in the 1960s and 1970s. Renowned for directing notable works such as 'I Vampiri' (1956), often credited as the first Italian horror film. Also directed 'The Horrible Dr. Hichcock' (1962) and 'Murder Obsession' (1981), which showcased a blend of psychological drama and horror elements. Collaboration with prominent actors and technicians of the era established a distinctive style in horror filmmaking. Continued to influence filmmakers long after his films were released.

Continue Reading

Stanley Milgram

American social psychologist, Milgram Experiment
Born
August 15th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1984 40 years ago — 51 years old

A social psychologist conducted groundbreaking research on obedience to authority. The Milgram Experiment, which began in 1961, demonstrated individuals' willingness to perform actions conflicting with their personal conscience when instructed by an authority figure. The study involved participants administering electric shocks to a subject in a controlled setting, revealing alarming insights into human behavior and conformity. This influential work raised ethical questions in psychology and highlighted the complexities of authority dynamics in social situations.

Continue Reading