Hasan ibn Ali
Second Shia Imam and grandson of Muhammad
Born in 624, served as the second Shia Imam after the death of Ali ibn Abi Talib. Played a significant role in guiding the Shia community during the early Islamic period. After the assassination of his father, Hasan faced political turmoil and eventually negotiated a peace treaty with Muawiya I to avoid further bloodshed. This treaty allowed for relative stability for his followers. Hasan is also recognized for his teachings and efforts to maintain unity among Muslims despite the existing divisions.
Served as the second Imam in Shia Islam
Negotiated a peace treaty with Muawiya I
Other People Born on December 1st
Nico Schlotterbeck
Professional footballer and defender
Born
December 1st, 1999 26 years ago
A professional footballer, active in the Bundesliga, contributed significantly as a central defender. Developed through youth systems and made appearances for various clubs before joining SC Freiburg. Transitioned to Borussia Dortmund in 2022, marking a critical phase in the career. Also represented the German national team in international competitions, showcasing defensive skills at a high level.
Continue ReadingZhu De
Chinese general and politician
Born
December 1st, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1976 49 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1886, a prominent figure in the Chinese Communist Party and a leading general during the Chinese Civil War. Played a crucial role in the Long March and served as a key military leader in various conflicts. Held significant positions in the People's Liberation Army and the government, including 1st Vice Chairman of the People's Republic of China. Contributed to the establishment of the state after the Communist victory in 1949, serving in important roles until his death.
Continue ReadingNikolai Voznesensky
Soviet economic planner and Politburo member
Born
December 1st, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 47 years old
Served as an economic planner within the Soviet Union, holding a significant role as a member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party. Contributed to the development of the Soviet economy during a period of rapid industrialization and planned economic growth. Played a key role in implementing the country's economic policies and managing various aspects of economic planning throughout the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingGary Peters
U.S. Senator from Michigan
Born
December 1st, 1958 67 years ago
Born in 1958, this American politician served in various political roles, including as a member of the United States Senate representing Michigan. Serving since 2015, held a previous position in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2009 to 2013, after serving in the Michigan State Senate. Focus areas included economic development and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingBilly Paul
Soul singer of 'Me and Mrs. Jones'
Born
December 1st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1934, one of the noted soul singers, achieved fame with the hit single 'Me and Mrs. Jones' in 1972, which reached number one on the Billboard chart. His career began in the 1950s, performing with various artists and recording with notable labels. Active throughout the 60s and 70s, Paul's work featured elements of jazz and R&B, contributing to the soul genre's evolution. He produced several albums during his career, with many songs reflecting social themes and personal narratives. Continued to perform and record into the later years of life, leaving a lasting influence on the soul music scene.
Continue ReadingJudith Hackitt
Chemist and engineer with HSE acclaim
Born
December 1st, 1954 71 years ago
An English chemist and engineer played a significant role in advancing safety regulations in the UK. Served as the Chair of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) from 2007 to 2016, focusing on improving workplace safety standards. Led investigations into major incidents and worked on comprehensive safety frameworks, particularly after the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy. Authored the 'Building a Safer Future' report, which outlined necessary reforms in building regulations and safety practices.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 2nd
Elizabeth Catlett
Sculptor and Illustrator, Famous for Works
Born
April 15th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
An American-Mexican sculptor and illustrator, created works that reflect the African American experience and the struggle for social justice. Education included studies at Howard University and the Art Students League in New York City. Moved to Mexico in 1946, where she became a prominent figure in the art community, embracing themes of identity and empowerment in her art. Worked in various mediums, including sculpture, lithography, and woodcuts, and focused on representations of women. Received numerous awards during her career, including the National Medal of Arts in 1994.
Continue ReadingUrs Widmer
Swiss author and playwright
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 76 years old
An author and playwright from Switzerland, created a significant body of work reflecting contemporary Swiss society. Notable works include the novel 'The Green Meadow' and the play 'The Tin Drum,' which tackle themes of identity and cultural conflict. Engaged in literary circles, contributed to various cultural discussions and promoted the importance of literature in modern life. Worked as an editor and influenced future generations of writers.
Continue ReadingJohn Barth
American novelist and author of 'Giles Goat-Boy'
Born
May 27th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent American novelist, contributions to fiction include postmodern works that explore metafiction and narrative structure. Significant works span several decades, with a critical approach to traditional storytelling. Notable titles include 'The Sot-Weed Factor', which parodies the 18th-century novel and 'Giles Goat-Boy', which combines satire with philosophical themes. Engaged in academia, held teaching positions at several universities, influencing literary studies and creative writing.
Continue ReadingJesús Franco
Filmmaker and horror genre pioneer
Born
May 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
A Spanish director, screenwriter, producer, and actor, recognized for contributions to the horror genre. Directed over 200 films, spanning various styles and themes. Developed a unique style characterized by low budgets and provocative content. Collaborated with notable actors, including Christopher Lee and Soledad Miranda. Gained a cult following through films that often blended eroticism with horror. His works included titles such as 'Count Dracula', 'The Awful Dr. Orlof', and 'Vampyros Lesbos', which have garnered attention in film studies and retrospectives.
Continue ReadingMauricio Lasansky
Graphic designer and artist
Born
1914 112 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 98 years old
An American graphic designer and academic contributed significantly to printmaking and is celebrated for innovative techniques. Lasansky taught extensively at the University of Iowa and influenced generations of artists. His work often dealt with social issues, reflecting the human condition through expressive visual language. Lasansky's career included exhibitions in renowned galleries, and his prints were featured in collections worldwide. His legacy is preserved through various teaching roles and his lasting impact on the field of graphic art.
Continue ReadingMaciej Kazimierz Sarbiewski
Polish poet and author of Latin literature
Born
February 24th, 1595 430 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1640 385 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent Polish poet and author, contributed significantly to Latin literature during the 17th century. Sarbiewski wrote extensively in Latin, producing works that included poetry and philosophical treatises. His writings often reflected classical influences and were distinguished by their lyrical quality and depth. He served as a court poet to the Polish king and engaged with contemporary themes in his work, bridging cultural and literary traditions. His notable contributions to poetry and theology earned him a respected position among scholars of his time.
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