Étienne de La Boétie
French philosopher and judge

Born
November 1st, 1530
494 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1563
462 years ago — 32 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
France
Links & References
Born in 1530, a notable philosopher and judge from France, contributed significantly to political philosophy. Authored 'Discours de la servitude volontaire', analyzing the nature of tyranny and the dynamics of power in society. Educated in law, held a position in the parlement of Bordeaux, where legal and philosophical ideas were fused. His insights into voluntary servitude inspired later thinkers and movements, becoming a foundational text in the study of freedom and resistance.
Wrote 'Discours de la servitude volontaire'
Served as a judge in Bordeaux
Other People Born on November 1st
Eugen Jochum
A prominent conductor active in the 20th century. Conducted many major orchestras and won notable recognition for the interpretation of classical music. Developed a deep understanding of symphonic works, particularly those by Bruckner and Mahler. Led the Berlin Philharmonic and the Munich Philharmonic, contributing to the prestige of these institutions. Received an honorary title from the Bavarian State Ministry of Education in 1971.
Continue ReadingJoe Chealey
Played college basketball at the College of Charleston, achieving All-CAA honors. Entered the NBA draft but went undrafted. Joined the NBA G League, where performance led to stints with various teams. Established a reputation for scoring and playmaking, contributing to team success and individual career highlights.
Continue ReadingNicolas Boileau-Despréaux
A prominent French poet and critic, this individual significantly influenced the development of French literature in the 17th century. His most notable work, 'Art poétique,' provided a comprehensive overview of poetic principles and aesthetics, advocating for clarity and classicism in writing. He served as a member of the Académie française, where he contributed to the regulation of the French language and literature. The critical essays and discussions presented often targeted the prevailing literary styles of the time, arguing for a return to more classical forms. Through an emphasis on reason and form, his ideas helped shape literary theory in France.
Continue ReadingOscar Temaru
A soldier and politician from French Polynesia, served multiple terms as President of French Polynesia. Focused on advocating for the sovereignty of French Polynesia and enhancing local governance. Played a significant role in promoting the cultural identity of Polynesian people and worked towards greater autonomy from France.
Continue ReadingDavid Berman
An actor gained prominence through roles in popular television series and films. Berman played the character Sous-chef in the acclaimed series 'The X-Files', appearing in several episodes. Achievements include a collaboration with renowned directors and contributing to the development of memorable characters within the shows. Apart from acting, he engaged in various creative endeavors, showing versatility in artistic pursuits.
Continue ReadingMitch Kapor
A computer programmer and businessman founded Lotus Software, which developed the influential Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet program. This software significantly contributed to the popularity of personal computers in the 1980s. Later, established the Electronic Frontier Foundation, advocating for civil liberties in the digital world. Conducted important work in promoting open-source software and digital rights.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 18th
Ibrahim of the Ottoman Empire
Ruled the Ottoman Empire from 1640 until 1648. His reign was marked by extravagant spending and instability. Ibrahim faced significant challenges, including military defeats and revolts. His policies led to discontent among various factions within the empire. Following a series of conflicts and issues, he was deposed and then executed in 1648, ending a tumultuous period in Ottoman history.
Continue ReadingMichael Deaver
Served as Deputy White House Chief of Staff under President Ronald Reagan. Played a key role in the public relations strategy of the Reagan administration. Was influential in crafting the administration's image and communications. Worked on the 1984 presidential campaign, which resulted in Reagan's re-election. Continued a career in political consulting after leaving the government, advising clients on strategy and public image.
Continue ReadingAlfonso of Aragon
A member of the House of Aragon, dedicated a significant portion of life to military engagements and territorial expansion. Commanded forces during various campaigns in Italy, demonstrating considerable tactical ability. Played a key role in the political landscape of the period, contributing to the complex dynamics of power among Italian states. His strategic efforts were pivotal in the maintenance and assertion of Aragonese interests in the region. Died under circumstances that remain a subject of intrigue and discussion among historians.
Continue ReadingLearned Hand
A prominent American lawyer and jurist, Hand served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Celebrated for his contributions to legal philosophy and constitutional law, he authored numerous influential opinions that shaped American jurisprudence. Hand’s beliefs about civil liberties and the importance of free speech influenced legal standards in the United States. As a notable scholar, he lectured extensively and engaged in discussions about the role of law in society. His efforts in the field of law encompassed a blend of practical judgment and deep philosophical inquiry.
Continue ReadingHiram Fong
Served in the US Army during World War II and later became a politician. Elected as a Republican Senator from Hawaii, holding office from 1959 to 1977. Advocated for statehood for Hawaii and worked on various legislative initiatives during his tenure. Also involved in international affairs, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, and served on the Senate's Foreign Relations Committee.
Continue ReadingAndré-Jacques Garnerin
Born in 1769, a pioneering figure in aviation, this individual made significant contributions to flight and parachuting. In 1797, executed the first successful parachute jump from a height of 3,200 feet using the frameless parachute design. This innovation represented a major advancement in safety for aerial vehicles and created a foundation for future developments in parachute technology.
Continue Reading