Franz Xavier Wernz
Religious Leader, Superior General of Jesuits
Served as the 25th Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1892 to 1906. Focused on the revitalization and expansion of Jesuit education and missions during a challenging period for the society. Played a crucial role in reestablishing the Jesuits in various countries after their suppression in the 18th century. Aimed to strengthen the formation of Jesuit members and emphasized the importance of academic excellence and pastoral engagement.
Led the Society of Jesus from 1892 to 1906
Reestablished Jesuit presence in Europe
Strengthened Jesuit education and missions
Other People Born on December 4th
Daniel Eberlin
German composer and music theorist
Born
December 4th, 1647 378 years ago
Died
1715 311 years ago — 68 years old
Born in Germany in 1647, Eberlin became a prominent figure in Baroque music. His works contributed to the development of music theory, and he was influential in shaping musical practices of his time. Eberlin wrote various compositions, including sacred and secular music, and is recognized for his treatise that discussed the principles of composition. He played a significant role in the music community through his writings and teachings.
Continue ReadingThomas Carlyle
Scottish philosopher and historian
Born
December 4th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1881 145 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent Scottish philosopher and historian, contributed significant works in literature and social criticism. Authored 'Sartor Resartus', a philosophical novel that explored themes of individuality and society. Wrote 'The French Revolution: A History', which analyzed the events and impact of the French Revolution. His essays and lectures on topics like heroism and leadership influenced Victorian thought and literary culture.
Continue ReadingGabriel Lundberg
Danish Basketball Player
Born
December 4th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, played professional basketball in Denmark and other countries. Played for the Danish national team in various international competitions, contributing to the team's strategies and performance. Gained recognition in the Danish basketball league for his skills as a guard, leading his team to notable victories. Committed to the development of basketball in Denmark, he participated in community events to promote the sport.
Continue ReadingJohn Cotton
Theologian and Puritan minister
Born
December 4th, 1585 440 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1652 373 years ago — 67 years old
Born in England, a prominent minister and theologian, contributed significantly to the Puritan movement. Served as the pastor of Boston's First Church, influencing the early settlement in New England. Advocated for religious freedom and the establishment of a theocratic government based on Puritan principles. Emphasized covenant theology and the importance of a personal relationship with God in his sermons and writings. Migrated to America in search of religious liberty, playing a key role in the development of the Massachusetts Bay Colony's religious landscape.
Continue ReadingRainer Maria Rilke
Poet known for 'Letters to a Young Poet'
Born
December 4th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1926 99 years ago — 51 years old
Austrian-Swiss poet and author contributed significantly to modernist poetry. Early works included 'The Life of the Virgin Mary', which combined lyrical and religious themes. The 'Duino Elegies' and 'Sonnets to Orpheus' represent major achievements in poetic expression, blending existential themes with deep personal introspection. Rilke's writing often reflected solitude and the search for meaning in life. His correspondence, particularly 'Letters to a Young Poet', remains influential in literary circles, providing guidance and insight into the artistic process and the nature of creativity.
Continue ReadingThomas Darcy
1st Baron Darcy of Chiche
Born
December 4th, 1506 519 years ago
Died
1558 468 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1506, served as a prominent noble during the Tudor period in England. Held the title of 1st Baron Darcy of Chiche and was a key figure in the political landscape of the time. Involved in significant events such as the Pilgrimage of Grace, a major uprising against the policies of Henry VIII. His position influenced the governance and land distribution in the North of England. Notably faced challenges related to loyalty to the crown during his tenure. Eventually, this led to his execution for treason in 1537, reflecting the tumultuous nature of the political landscape during the Tudor era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 19th
Stephanos Skouloudis
Greek banker and Prime Minister
Born
November 23rd, 1838 187 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1928 97 years ago — 89 years old
Involved in public service and banking, held the office of Prime Minister of Greece during a period of political turmoil. Engaged with various economic policies and diplomatic matters that influenced Greece's direction in the late 19th century. Skouloudis contributed to shaping the economic landscape of the nation through his leadership roles and participation in government affairs.
Continue ReadingOtto Frank
Businessman, father of Anne Frank
Born
May 12th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1980 45 years ago — 91 years old
A businessman who lived in both Germany and Switzerland. Played a key role in the publication of Anne Frank's diary after the war. Worked in the family business until the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to significant challenges. Emigrated to Switzerland after the war where he dedicated efforts to promoting his daughter's legacy and raising awareness about the Holocaust.
Continue ReadingTomás Burgos
Chilean philanthropist
Born
September 18th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1945 80 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in philanthropy in Chile, focused on social welfare and community development. Established various charitable organizations and initiatives aimed at improving education and healthcare in underprivileged areas. Collaborated with governmental and non-governmental entities to promote social justice and assist those in need.
Continue ReadingVáclav Patejdl
Slovak musician and singer-songwriter
Born
October 10th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2023 2 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1954, this Slovak musician gained recognition as a member of the band Elán, which became one of the most popular rock bands in Slovakia. The band achieved immense success in the 1980s and 1990s with numerous hit songs and albums. The musician contributed significantly to the band’s songwriting and composition, helping to define its sound. Apart from work with Elán, the musician has pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles that reflect a blend of pop and rock influences. The career highlighted a deep connection with Slovak culture and music, resonating with fans across generations.
Continue ReadingSamih al-Qasim
Palestinian poet and journalist
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in Palestinian literature, contributed extensively to Arabic poetry through powerful expressions of resistance and identity. Published numerous collections that reflect the struggles and aspirations of the Palestinian people. Worked as a journalist, using the media to articulate political and social issues affecting the region. Al-Qasim's poetry often blended personal narratives with nationalistic themes, resonating deeply within and beyond Middle Eastern culture.
Continue ReadingPierre Schaeffer
Composer and producer of musique concrète
Born
August 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1995 30 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France, this individual developed musique concrète, a form of experimental music that uses recorded natural sounds as raw material. He worked as a radio producer and composer, and began the interdisciplinary use of sound in art and music. The creation of the GRM (Groupe de Recherches Musicales) in 1958 marked a significant moment in the exploration of electronic music and sound manipulation. The contributions to sound and music aesthetics influenced generations of composers and musicians.
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