Herman Boerhaave
Botanist and physician, Systema Plantarum
Contributions to botany and medicine established a foundation for modern medical education. Developed a systematic approach to plant classification that influenced future botanists. Authored several important texts, including 'Elementa Chemiae' and 'Systema Plantarum', which served as vital resources in both fields. Promoted clinical education for physicians and integrated theory with practice.
Developed a systematic classification of plants
Authored 'Elementa Chemiae'
Authored 'Systema Plantarum'
Other People Born on December 31st
Heath Shuler
American football player, politician
Born
December 31st, 1971 53 years ago
A former professional American football quarterback and a politician. Played college football at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Selected by the Washington Redskins as the third overall pick in the 1994 NFL Draft. Played for the Redskins and the New Orleans Saints during an NFL career that spanned from 1994 to 1997. After retiring from football, served as a U.S. Representative for North Carolina's 11th congressional district from 2007 to 2013. Focused on issues including education and healthcare during time in Congress.
Continue ReadingPhill Kline
American lawyer and Kansas Attorney General
Born
December 31st, 1959 65 years ago
Graduated from the University of Kansas and the University of Kansas School of Law. Served as an Assistant Attorney General in Kansas. Elected as the Kansas Attorney General from 2003 to 2007. His tenure included significant legal battles related to abortion laws and voter registration issues. After leaving office, engaged in private legal practice and became involved in political advocacy within conservative circles.
Continue ReadingPula Nikolao Pula
Governor of American Samoa, 2013-2017
Born
December 31st, 1955 69 years ago
Served as the 9th governor of American Samoa from 2013 to 2017. Pula held various positions in public service prior to his governorship, including serving as the Director of the Department of Human and Social Services. His tenure as governor focused on issues such as economic development, public health, and education improvements in the territory. Pula also worked to enhance the relationship between American Samoa and the federal government.
Continue ReadingAndreas Vesalius
Anatomist and physician; published 'De humani corporis fabrica'
Born
December 31st, 1514 510 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1564 461 years ago — 49 years old
Birth occurred in Brussels, within the region known as the Low Countries. Studied medicine at the University of Padua, contributing significantly to the field of anatomy. Published 'De humani corporis fabrica' in 1543, revolutionizing the understanding of human anatomy through detailed illustrations and systematic dissection. Established a new standard for anatomical studies that influenced generations of physicians and anatomists. Served as court physician to Emperor Charles V. His work laid the groundwork for modern anatomy and challenged conventional beliefs of the time.
Continue ReadingMarie d'Agoult
Historian and author of the 19th century
Born
December 31st, 1805 219 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1876 149 years ago — 70 years old
Born into a wealthy family, contributed to French letters and historical scholarship during the 19th century. Engaged in the Romantic movement, edited and published works that highlighted the significance of modern history and culture. Notably, wrote about her experiences and observations in the literary scene of her time, including her relationship with composer Franz Liszt, which influenced her writing. Her efforts in establishing French history as a subject of academic inquiry paved the way for future historians.
Continue ReadingGabby Douglas
Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 31st, 1995 29 years ago
A celebrated gymnast from the United States, earned fame through remarkable performances at international competitions, particularly during the 2012 London Olympics. Captured attention by becoming the first African American gymnast to win the individual all-around title at the Olympics. Achieved additional success by contributing to the U.S. women's gymnastics team victory in the team competition at the same Olympics. Continued to compete at the elite level, participating in subsequent events and championships.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 23rd
Tibor Sekelj
Hungarian explorer and author
Born
February 14th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1988 37 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Hungary in 1912, a prominent lawyer and explorer dedicated a significant portion of life to exploration and writing. Focused on the cultures and peoples of South America, contributed extensively to ethnographic literature. Resided in various countries, exploring uncharted territories, documenting travels and experiences through books and articles. Worked closely with indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation.
Continue ReadingSigmund Freud
Austrian neurologist and psychoanalyst
Born
May 6th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1939 86 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of psychology, establishing the foundations of psychoanalysis. Developed theories on the unconscious mind, dream interpretation, and the significance of childhood experiences. Authored several influential texts, including 'The Interpretation of Dreams' and 'Civilization and Its Discontents'. Lasting impact on psychology and culture through exploration of human behavior and mental processes.
Continue ReadingChief Dan George
Canadian actor and author, Little Big Man
Born
July 24th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1981 44 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1899, a Canadian actor and author gained recognition for roles portraying Indigenous characters in film and theater. Career highlights included a prominent role in the film 'Little Big Man,' which showcased the experiences of Native Americans. In addition to acting, contributed to the arts through poetry and writing. Played a significant role in promoting Indigenous rights and culture.
Continue ReadingAdolph I
Duke of Cleves during the 15th century
Born
1373 652 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1448 577 years ago — 75 years old
Ascended to the title of Duke of Cleves in 1437. Played a significant role in the politics of the Duchy of Cleves during his reign. Engaged in territorial expansion efforts and attempted to strengthen the duchy's power through strategic marriages and alliances. His reign saw the consolidation of power in the region and laid the groundwork for future developments in the House of Cleves.
Continue ReadingRobert Bloch
Horror fiction author, Psycho
Born
April 5th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1994 31 years ago — 77 years old
An American author gained recognition in the horror genre, particularly through the novel 'Psycho', which inspired Alfred Hitchcock's iconic film. Bloch began writing as a teenager and became involved with the influential Lovecraft Circle. Contributions to the genre included short stories and novels that explored psychological horror and supernatural themes. Bloch's work extended beyond novels, encompassing television scripts and collaborations with other prominent writers. His career was marked by numerous awards and honors, demonstrating a lasting legacy in horror literature.
Continue ReadingJohan Ernst Gunnerus
Norwegian bishop, botanist, zoologist
Born
February 26th, 1718 307 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1773 252 years ago — 55 years old
Born in Norway, pursued a career in the church while simultaneously engaging in scientific observations. Contributed significantly to the study of botany and zoology. Founded the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters in 1760. Noted for extensive correspondence with other naturalists and for published works that included studies on local flora and fauna. Served as a bishop and was instrumental in promoting education and science within the church community.
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