Henri-Gustave Joly de Lotbinière
French-Canadian politician, Premier of Quebec
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Canada
Links & References
Became a prominent lawyer and politician in Quebec, serving as the 4th Premier from 1878 to 1879. Contributed to the development of the Liberal Party in Quebec. Oversaw significant political discussions during his tenure, focusing on issues affecting the province. Pursued various reforms aimed at addressing local governance and administration.
Served as the 4th Premier of Quebec
Contributed to the Liberal Party's early formation
Focused on local governance reforms
Other People Born on December 5th
Martin Van Buren
American politician, 8th U.S. President
Born
December 5th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1862 163 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the 8th President of the United States from 1837 to 1841. Played a key role in founding the Democratic Party. Served as the Secretary of State and the Vice President under Andrew Jackson. Worked on issues such as the economy and the fallout from the Panic of 1837.
Continue ReadingCharles Robberts Swart
South African lawyer and 1st State President
Born
December 5th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1982 43 years ago — 87 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the first State President of South Africa from 1960 to 1967 following the establishment of the office after the republic was declared in 1960. Swart had previously been active in the government, holding various positions, including Minister of Defence and Minister of Interior. His presidency coincided with significant political changes in South Africa, including the formalization of apartheid laws. After leaving office, Swart continued to be involved in politics and public life until his retirement.
Continue ReadingVítězslav Novák
Czech composer and educator recognized for orchestral works
Born
December 5th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1949 76 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1870, a prominent Czech composer and educator contributed significantly to the landscape of early 20th-century music. Studied at the Prague Conservatory, influenced by the Romantic tradition. Composed various works, including symphonies, operas, and chamber music. Taught at the Prague Conservatory, shaping future generations of musicians. His work encapsulated national themes, reflecting the cultural identity of Czech music during his era.
Continue ReadingBhumibol Adulyadej
King of Thailand, longest-reigning monarch
Born
December 5th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the King of Thailand from 1946 until 2016, the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history. His reign was marked by a range of development projects and initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of the Thai people. Under his leadership, significant advancements were made in agriculture, rural development, and public health. Promoted national unity and participated in numerous charitable activities. Instrumental in fostering a sense of Thai identity and culture.
Continue ReadingC. F. Powell
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1969 56 years ago — 65 years old
This physicist contributed significantly to the field of particle physics. Developed the photographic emulsion technique that enabled the discovery of many subatomic particles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions, influencing the education of future physicists. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1950 for contributions to the development of the photographic method for studying nuclear processes and the meson theory.
Continue ReadingSonny Boy Williamson II
Harmonica player and blues singer
Born
December 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1965 60 years ago — 52 years old
Born in 1912, this musician emerged as a prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene. He gained recognition for his impressive harmonica skills and expressive vocal style. His recordings during the 1950s brought attention to the blues genre, influencing many artists. His music incorporated traditional blues elements along with unique improvisation, which resonated with audiences. He performed widely in clubs and recorded several influential albums, solidifying his legacy in the music industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 16th
Pehr Kalm
Swedish-Finnish botanist and explorer
Born
March 6th, 1716 309 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1779 246 years ago — 63 years old
An influential botanist and explorer, conducted extensive research in North America during the 18th century. Focused on the study of North American flora, Kalm's expeditions provided valuable information about the continent's plant life. Published a significant work titled 'Resa till Norra Amerika' detailing observations on the natural history and indigenous cultures. Kalm also contributed to the field of horticulture in Sweden, introducing various plant species to Europe from his travels.
Continue ReadingDonald Watson
Vegan activist and founder of Vegan Society
Born
September 2nd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 95 years old
An English activist founded the Vegan Society in 1944, promoting a lifestyle and diet free from animal products. The establishment of the society marked a significant shift in dietary choices and animal rights advocacy. Watson emphasized ethical treatment of animals and environmental considerations linked to animal farming. Throughout the years, he contributed to various publications and discussions pertaining to veganism, raising awareness about its benefits for health and the planet. His work laid the groundwork for the modern vegan movement and influenced many to adopt a plant-based lifestyle.
Continue ReadingJohn
King of Denmark during the Kalmar Union
Born
February 2nd, 1455 570 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1464 561 years ago — 9 years old
Became King of Denmark in 1481 and ruled until 1513. Oversaw the Kalmar Union, which united the crowns of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway under a single monarch. Struggled with internal conflicts in Sweden, which led to its eventual secession from the Union. Managed to strengthen Danish control over Norway during the reign while facing challenges from Swedish nobles. Encouraged trade and commerce in Denmark, contributing to the prosperity of the kingdom during his reign.
Continue ReadingEduard Eelma
Estonian footballer and national team player
Born
April 7th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1941 84 years ago — 39 years old
Played as a defender in football. Competed for the Estonia national team from 1923 to 1933. Participated in the 1924 Summer Olympics as part of the national squad. Contributed significantly to the development of football in Estonia during the early years of the sport in the country.
Continue ReadingA. A. Ames
American physician and Mayor of Minneapolis
Born
January 18th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1911 114 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1842, this individual served as a physician and held the position of Mayor of Minneapolis. The mayoralty spanned significant local developments and efforts in public health and urban governance. The tenure contributed to shaping the administrative and civic landscape of the city during a transformative period.
Continue ReadingChristiaan Hendrik Persoon
Mycologist and botanical researcher
Born
February 1st, 1761 264 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1836 189 years ago — 75 years old
Significant contributions to mycology included classification and systematic study of fungi. Developed the modern classification system for fungi that forms the basis for mycological research today. Conducted extensive field studies in Southern Africa and published numerous botanical works that detailed various species. Lived primarily in Europe and played a crucial role in advancing mycological studies during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
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