Friedrich Melchior

German-French author and playwright

Friedrich Melchior - German-French author and playwright
Born

December 26th, 1723
301 years ago

Died

December 19th, 1807
217 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Germany

Links & References

Born in 1723, a baron and influential figure in literature, this individual contributed extensively to the French theatrical landscape. Known for writing plays and critiques that explored society and culture, works included 'Le Fils de la Veuve' and various essays. Acted as a key figure in the Circle of the Enlightenment, fostering connections between writers and philosophers.

Wrote 'Le Fils de la Veuve'

Contributed to the Enlightenment Circle

Authored various essays and critiques

Other People Born on December 26th

Adrian Newey

Aerodynamicist and engineer for Red Bull Racing
Born
December 26th, 1958 66 years ago

An English aerodynamicist and engineer focused on motorsport, developed many successful Formula One cars. Worked with major teams such as Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull Racing. Achieved significant success in Formula One, contributing to multiple Constructors' Championships with Red Bull Racing during the 2010s.

Continue Reading

Aksel Lund Svindal

Norwegian Alpine Ski Racer, Olympic Champion
Born
December 26th, 1982 42 years ago

Born in 1982, a remarkable career in Alpine skiing included successes in both the World Cup and Olympic Games. Achievements encompassed multiple World Championship titles and an Olympic gold medal. Notably, competed for Norway in various events, demonstrating exceptional skill in downhill and super-G disciplines. Retired after the 2019 season, leaving behind a legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading

Jade Thirlwall

English singer and Little Mix member
Born
December 26th, 1992 32 years ago

Born in 1992, this individual rose to prominence as a member of the girl group Little Mix. The group formed on 'The X Factor' in 2011 and became the first group to win the competition. Little Mix achieved significant success in the pop music industry, known for their empowering lyrics and harmonies. The individual also pursued solo projects, contributing to various charitable causes and LGBTQ+ rights advocacy.

Continue Reading

Don Barclay

Actor and illustrator, voice of Private Snoopy
Born
December 26th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 83 years old

An American actor and illustrator, contributed to the entertainment industry through various roles in film and television. Notably provided the voice for the character Private Snoopy in the acclaimed animated series 'The Charlie Brown Show'. Also illustrated for several publications, showcasing artistic skills alongside acting talent. Appeared in multiple film and television projects throughout the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Wilhelm Xylander

German scholar and translator of classics
Born
December 26th, 1532 492 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1576 449 years ago — 43 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of classical texts and languages. Xylander translated works from Greek and Latin into German, making them more accessible to the scholarly community and students. His efforts included translations of well-known classical authors and philosophers, which facilitated the spread of humanist ideas in Germany during the Renaissance period. Xylander also held academic positions in various institutions, influencing the education of future scholars.

Continue Reading

Alexander Wang

Fashion Designer and Creative Director
Born
December 26th, 1983 41 years ago

A prominent fashion designer in American fashion, this individual founded a namesake brand in 2004, specializing in luxury ready-to-wear. The brand became recognized for its urban aesthetic and innovative designs. Appointed as the Creative Director of Balenciaga in 2012, influenced the brand's modern direction. Received numerous awards, including the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund in 2011, highlighting contributions to the fashion industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 19th

John Lindsay

American politician and lawyer, NYC Mayor
Born
November 24th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2000 24 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 103rd Mayor of New York City from 1966 to 1973. Worked as a lawyer before entering politics. Focused on improving urban infrastructure and social programs during tenure. Managed the city's response to various social challenges, including racial tensions and the Vietnam War protests. Initiated the construction of new public facilities and transportation upgrades. Faced a challenging fiscal environment which impacted services provided by the city.

Continue Reading

Desmond Llewelyn

Actor in James Bond films as Q
Born
September 12th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1999 25 years ago — 85 years old

A soldier and actor, contributions to film primarily include the portrayal of the character Q in the James Bond series. The role spanned over 17 films from 1963 to 1999, establishing a memorable presence in the franchise. His background included military service during World War II, and after the war, he transitioned into acting, gaining prominence in theater and film.

Continue Reading

Herbert C. Brown

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 22nd, 1912 112 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

Born in England and later moving to the United States, a chemist made significant contributions to the fields of organic chemistry and boron chemistry. The development of the hydroboration reactions provided new pathways for synthetic organic chemists. In 1979, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for pioneering work with boron compounds. Served as a professor at Purdue University, contributing to academic research and education.

Continue Reading

Rosalind Knight

English actress with notable TV roles
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2020 4 years ago — 87 years old

An English actress gained prominence through performances in television and film. Notable appearances included roles in 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'Carry On' films. Voiced characters in animated series and featured in various other TV shows, showcasing a broad versatility in acting. Work spanned several decades, beginning in the 1950s. Contributed to productions both on screen and stage, leaving a legacy in British entertainment.

Continue Reading

Amnon Lipkin-Shahak

Israeli general and Transportation Minister
Born
March 18th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 12 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1944, a significant figure in Israeli military and political spheres, served as an IDF general and held the position of 22nd Transportation Minister of Israel. Participated in several key military operations, contributing to national defense strategies. In the political arena, engaged in transportation policies aiming to enhance infrastructure and connectivity across the nation.

Continue Reading

Henry Ware Lawton

American general during the Spanish-American War
Born
1843 182 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1899 125 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a general in the United States Army, participating in major campaigns during the Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War. Lawton commanded troops in the Battle of San Juan Hill and was instrumental in the capture of Manila. He also played a significant role in the military operations in the Philippines, where he was known for his leadership and strategic skills. Lawton's military career was marked by his commitment to duty and effective command during critical engagements.

Continue Reading