Gordon Prange

Historian and author of WWII works

Gordon Prange - Historian and author of WWII works
Born

July 16th, 1910
114 years ago

Died

May 15th, 1980
44 years ago — 69 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent historian and educator specialized in World War II, focusing on the Pacific theater. Played a crucial role in documenting and analyzing the events surrounding the attack on Pearl Harbor. Authored several influential books including 'At Dawn We Slept', which provided a comprehensive account of the attack and its implications. His research and writings contributed extensively to the understanding of military history and the dynamics of warfare during this pivotal time.

Authored 'At Dawn We Slept'

Contributed to historical research on Pearl Harbor

Other People Born on July 16th

Claude Lemieux

Ice Hockey Player, 1995 Stanley Cup Champion
Born
July 16th, 1965 59 years ago

Played as a professional ice hockey forward from 1982 to 2009. Contributed significantly to several NHL teams including the Montreal Canadiens, New Jersey Devils, and Colorado Avalanche. Played a key role in the New Jersey Devils' 1995 Stanley Cup victory. Recognized for consistent performance and ability to perform in clutch situations.

Continue Reading

Anna Vyrubova

Russian author and memoirist
Born
July 16th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1884, this individual became a prominent writer and close confidante of Tsarina Alexandra of Russia. She authored several works reflecting her experiences in the imperial court, with particular focus on the last days of the Romanov dynasty. Her memoirs provide unique insights into the social and political climate of early 20th-century Russia. After the Russian Revolution, this individual lived in exile and continued to write, contributing to the understanding of Russian history and culture during a tumultuous period.

Continue Reading

Duncan Keith

Ice hockey defenseman, two-time Stanley Cup champion
Born
July 16th, 1983 41 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player, primarily played as a defenseman in the NHL. During a significant career with the Chicago Blackhawks, contributed to three Stanley Cup victories in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Recognized for exceptional defensive skills and vision on the ice, received the Norris Trophy as the league's best defenseman in 2010 and 2014.

Continue Reading

Jürgen Ligi

Estonian politician and Minister of Defence
Born
July 16th, 1959 65 years ago

An economist and politician, served as the 25th Minister of Defence in Estonia. Ligi held the ministerial position from 2014 to 2015 and was part of the Estonian government while focusing on national defense issues. Engaged in comprehensive reforms in the defense sector, promoting modernization and efficiency within military operations. Ligi also served in various other governmental roles, contributing to economic policies and fiscal management.

Continue Reading

Cyrus Griffin

American politician and judge, Continental Congress
Born
July 16th, 1748 276 years ago
Died
1810 215 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 16th President of the Continental Congress from 1788 to 1789. Practiced law in Virginia and focused on public service. Helped draft the Virginia Constitution. Appointed as a federal judge for the District of Virginia after the ratification of the United States Constitution. Played a significant role in the early governance of the United States.

Continue Reading

Anita Brookner

English novelist and art historian
Born
July 16th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
March 10th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

A prolific novelist and art historian, contributed significantly to literature and art criticism. Authored several novels, with notable works including 'Hotel du Lac', which won the Booker Prize in 1984. Wrote extensively on art history, analyzing the works of prominent artists and carrying out detailed critiques in various publications. Served as a professor of art history at the Courtauld Institute of Art, where teachings encompassed modern French art and its influences. The ability to intertwine personal experience with broader concepts in literature marked the writing style.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 15th

Harry J. Capehart

American lawyer and politician
Born
May 2nd, 1881 143 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1955 69 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1881, a prominent lawyer and politician conducted a successful career in American politics and business. Served as a member of the United States Senate from 1943 to 1945, representing Indiana. Played a crucial role in various local and state-level initiatives, contributing to legislative advancements. Additionally, engaged in business ventures, expanding professional influence beyond law and government. Remained active in public affairs throughout the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Kenneth J. Alford

Bandmaster and composer of marches
Born
February 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1945 79 years ago — 64 years old

A significant figure in military music, contributed extensively to the genre of military marches. Composed many well-regarded pieces, including 'Colonel Bogey March', which gained international fame. Served as a bandmaster in the British Army, where leadership in various military bands was demonstrated. His work has inspired generations of musicians and remains popular in both military and civilian music circles.

Continue Reading

Valentinian II

Roman Emperor during the Western Roman Empire
Died
May 15th, 392 1632 years ago — None years old

Ruled as co-emperor of the Western Roman Empire from 375 to 392. The reign involved challenges such as the rise of Gothic threats and internal dissent. Associated with the development of Christian law, supported the Catholic Church against Arianism. His reign ended with his death under mysterious circumstances, leading to a power vacuum in the empire. The empire faced increased instability and challenges from barbarian invasions during this period.

Continue Reading

Braulio Carrillo Colina

Costa Rican politician and president
Born
March 20th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1845 179 years ago — 45 years old

Served as President of Costa Rica from 1835 to 1836 and again from 1837 to 1838. Played a pivotal role in the creation of the country's constitution in 1841. Worked to establish a more centralized government during a period of political turbulence. Engaged in efforts to promote economic development and infrastructure improvements.

Continue Reading

Gottfried Semper

Architect, designed Semper Opera House
Born
November 29th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1879 145 years ago — 75 years old

An architect and academic, played a significant role in the development of 19th-century architecture. Studied in Germany, and taught at various institutions. Designed the Semper Opera House in Dresden, which exemplified a harmonious integration of art and architecture, and is considered a landmark of his career. Contributed to architectural theory and the study of styles, focusing on the importance of materials and their historical context in design.

Continue Reading

Jean-Luc Dehaene

Belgian politician and former Prime Minister
Born
August 7th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
May 15th, 2014 10 years ago — 73 years old

A lawyer and politician, served as the 63rd Prime Minister of Belgium from 1992 to 1999. Held significant roles in government that contributed to the country's development and European integration. Represented the Flemish Liberals and Democrats and was instrumental in constitutional reforms. Played a key role in the establishment of the euro and was involved in various European Union policies during tenure.

Continue Reading