Homer S. Ferguson
American lawyer and politician
Born
1889
137 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as a judge and U.S. Senator from Michigan. Held the position of senator from 1955 to 1979. Contributed to various legislations during tenure, focusing on civil rights and social welfare. Played a significant role in shaping policies affecting the state and nation. Engaged in legal practice before entering politics, gaining recognition for expertise in law.
Served as U.S. Senator for Michigan from 1955 to 1979
Held judicial positions prior to Senate career
Contributed to civil rights and social welfare legislation
Other People Who Died on December 17th
Kaspar Hauser
German feral child with mysterious origins
Born
1812 214 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1833 192 years ago — 21 years old
A child appeared in Nuremberg, Germany, in 1828, claiming to have grown up in isolation. He was unable to speak or read and had limited understanding of the world. Theories arose regarding his origins, including that he was of noble birth or held captive. As time passed, he began to learn and communicate, attracting attention from scholars and the public. His life ended abruptly when he was found stabbed in 1833, leading to speculation about the circumstances surrounding his death and the true nature of his life. This case received significant media coverage and spurred discussions about human development.
Continue ReadingLeopold II of Belgium
Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born
April 9th, 1835 191 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1909 116 years ago — 74 years old
Reigned as King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Established the Congo Free State as a personal possession, which was marked by extensive exploitation of natural resources and forced labor. Under his rule, significant economic development occurred in the region, but at a devastating cost to the local population.
Continue ReadingNzinga of Ndongo and Matamba
Queen and diplomat of Ndongo
Born
1583 443 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1663 362 years ago — 80 years old
Ruled as the Queen of Ndongo and Matamba during the 17th century. Engaged in resistance against Portuguese colonization in Angola. Established diplomatic relations with various European powers and advocated for her people's autonomy. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time, navigating complex alliances and conflicts to strengthen her kingdoms. Successfully led military campaigns against Portuguese forces, displaying strategic acumen in protecting her territory and sovereignty.
Continue ReadingTom Wesselmann
American painter of pop art
Born
February 23rd, 1931 95 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old
An influential American painter and sculptor, this artist was a prominent figure in the pop art movement, known for incorporating elements of commercial culture in artwork. The series Great American Nude features bold colors and simplified forms, directly addressing themes of consumerism and sexuality. Throughout a career spanning several decades, the artist explored the intersection of fine art and everyday life, often utilizing assemblage techniques. The artwork reflected modern American culture, tackling subjects from advertising to personal desire. This artist's work has been important in establishing a narrative around consumer culture in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingK. W. Devanayagam
Sri Lankan lawyer and Minister of Justice
Born
March 26th, 1910 116 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2002 23 years ago — 92 years old
A Sri Lankan lawyer and politician, served as the 10th Minister of Justice. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Sri Lanka during the mid-20th century. Engaged in legal practices and contributed to legislative reforms. Participated actively in parliamentary proceedings and discussions regarding justice and legal frameworks in the country.
Continue ReadingManuel de Oliveira Gomes da Costa
Portuguese General and President
Born
January 14th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1929 96 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 10th President of Portugal from 1926 to 1927. Started a military career that included participating in various campaigns and eventual promotion through the ranks. Played a key role in the 1926 coup d'état that led to the establishment of a military dictatorship in Portugal. Focused on stabilizing the country during a period of turmoil and political instability.
Continue Reading