Henry Waxman
American lawyer and politician
A prominent lawyer and politician, played a significant role in U.S. legislation over several decades. Served as a member of the House of Representatives from California's 30th district from 1975 to 2015. Focused on health care, environmental issues, and civil rights. Chaired the House Energy and Commerce Committee, overseeing key measures related to health reform and climate change. Instrumental in passing the Affordable Care Act and the Tobacco Control Act.
Served as chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee
Instrumental in passing the Affordable Care Act
Spearheaded the Tobacco Control Act
Other People Born on September 12th
Leonard Peltier
Political activist and prisoner advocate
Born
September 12th, 1944 81 years ago
Born in 1944, Peltier became an important figure in the American Indian Movement during the 1970s. Peltier's activism centered around the rights and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples. After a deadly shootout at Wounded Knee, Peltier was convicted of murder in connection with the deaths of two FBI agents in 1975. The conviction was controversial and has been the subject of ongoing debates regarding civil rights and legal injustices faced by Native Americans. Peltier has spent decades in prison, advocating for Indigenous rights and raising awareness about political prisoners.
Continue ReadingMark Rosenzweig
Psychologist and academic researcher
Born
September 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions focused on animal behavior and brain development. Rosenzweig studied the effects of environmental factors on the brain, notably through experiments with rats. Research demonstrated that enriched environments could enhance cognitive functions and brain plasticity. Served as a professor and continued to share findings through numerous publications and educational efforts within the field of psychology.
Continue ReadingRichard Jordan Gatling
American engineer, inventor of the Gatling gun
Born
September 12th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago — 84 years old
An American engineer developed the Gatling gun, one of the earliest successful machine guns. The Gatling gun was patented in 1862 and saw extensive use during the American Civil War. Its design utilized a rotating barrel and a hand-crank mechanism, allowing rapid fire compared to traditional firearms. Gatling's invention significantly influenced military technology and warfare strategies. Later, the design was modified and improved for increased efficiency and reliability in subsequent conflicts. Gatling's contributions to engineering extended beyond firearms as he patented over a dozen inventions during his career.
Continue ReadingBertie Ahern
Irish politician, 11th Taoiseach of Ireland
Born
September 12th, 1951 74 years ago
Served as the 11th Taoiseach from 1997 to 2008. Played a significant role in the Northern Ireland peace process, contributing to the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Continued to lead the country through economic growth during his tenure. Held the position of Minister for Finance from 1991 to 1994 before becoming Taoiseach. Engaged in various political initiatives to further Irish interests both domestically and internationally.
Continue ReadingRussell "Jungle Jim" Liberman
American drag racer and TV personality
Born
September 12th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 32 years old
A prominent figure in American drag racing, gained prominence in the 1960s. Achieved significant success as a professional drag racer, competing in various events and showcasing remarkable driving skills. Developed a unique persona as 'Jungle Jim', becoming a recognizable face in motorsports. Participated in numerous NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) events, with many victories contributing to a lasting legacy in the sport. Additionally, made appearances in television shows, bringing drag racing to a broader audience and inspiring many new racers.
Continue ReadingPaul Walker
Actor in the Fast & Furious franchise
Born
September 12th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 40 years old
An American actor became widely recognized for roles in the Fast & Furious film series, portraying the character Brian O'Conner. Walker's acting career began in the early 1990s, with appearances in television and film. He gained significant fame for his performance in the Fast & Furious franchise, which began in 2001 and evolved into a global phenomenon over multiple sequels. Beyond acting, he founded Reach Out Worldwide, a non-profit organization providing aid to disaster-stricken areas. Walker's life was tragically cut short in a car accident in 2013, but his legacy continues through both his film work and philanthropic efforts.
Continue Reading