Hrant Dink
Turkish-Armenian journalist and activist
A journalist and activist focused on Armenian issues and human rights. Founded and edited the Armenian-Turkish newspaper Agos. Advocated for reconciliation between Turkey and Armenia. Sought to address the historical events of the Armenian Genocide. Faced numerous legal challenges and threats due to his views. Assassinated in 2007, prompting widespread protests and discussions on freedom of expression.
Founded Agos newspaper
Advocated for Armenian rights
Addressed Armenian Genocide
Other People Born on September 15th
Terry McLaurin
American football wide receiver
Born
September 15th, 1995 30 years ago
Played collegiate football at Ohio State University, where achieved All-Big Ten honors. Selected in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Washington Football Team. Quickly emerged as a leading receiver for the team, showcasing speed and route-running ability. Recorded over 900 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons. Notable for strong performances and consistency in the receiver position, making significant contributions to the team's offense.
Continue ReadingLuther Terry
Surgeon General and tobacco control advocate
Born
September 15th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1985 40 years ago — 73 years old
An American physician and academic served as the 9th Surgeon General of the United States. Appointed in 1961, issued a landmark report in 1964 that linked smoking to lung cancer and other diseases, significantly contributing to public health awareness. Oversaw initiatives that led to regulations surrounding tobacco advertising and smoking in public spaces. Authored several influential publications regarding health policies.
Continue ReadingGunnar Ekelöf
Swedish poet and translator known for work
Born
September 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1968 57 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent figure in Swedish literature, produced a significant body of poetry and translations that contributed to modernist movements. Notable works include 'Sent på jorden' and 'Splittring'. Translated various authors, including Edgar Allan Poe, introducing Swedish readers to diverse literary styles. Received the Swedish Academy's major award for contributions to literature. Ekelöf's writings often explored themes of existentialism and identity, reflecting personal and cultural experiences.
Continue ReadingBruno Walter
Conductor and composer of classical music
Born
September 15th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1962 63 years ago — 85 years old
A significant figure in the world of classical music, a celebrated conductor and composer. Studied under the notable composer Richard Strauss. Conducted major orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Focused on the works of Beethoven, Mahler, and Mozart. Established a prominent career in both Europe and the United States. Renowned for interpretations of Mahler's symphonies, which have become a standard in the classical repertoire. Contributed to the revival of Mahler's music and left a lasting legacy as a conductor and composer.
Continue ReadingDave Annable
Actor in 'Brothers & Sisters' series
Born
September 15th, 1979 46 years ago
An actor gained recognition for roles in popular television series. Played the character Justin Walker in the series 'Brothers & Sisters' from 2006 to 2011. Starred in the series '666 Park Avenue' in 2012. Appeared in various films including 'The Holiday' and 'Little Black Book'.
Continue ReadingJames Fenimore Cooper
American novelist and historian
Born
September 15th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1851 174 years ago — 61 years old
Wrote historical novels that emphasized American frontier life in the early 19th century. Gained prominence with the publication of 'The Last of the Mohicans,' which depicted the struggles of Native Americans and European settlers. Contributed significantly to the genre of historical fiction, exploring themes of individualism and social evolution. Authored numerous works, including 'The Deerslayer' and 'The Pilot,' showcasing adventure and moral complexity. Also engaged in historical writings reflecting on the events of his time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 19th
William Congreve
Playwright and poet, The Way of the World
Born
January 24th, 1670 356 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1729 297 years ago — 58 years old
A playwright and poet who wrote comedies that reflected the manners and morals of the English upper class during the late 17th century. Congreve's work often displayed sharp wit and social commentary. His most celebrated play, 'The Way of the World,' premiered in 1700 and is considered a classic of Restoration comedy, representing the style and spirit of the era. In addition to his plays, Congreve also composed poems and collaborated on other theatrical works. His influence extended to later playwrights and marked a significant period in English theatre.
Continue ReadingWilliam O. Douglas
American jurist and Supreme Court Justice
Born
October 16th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1980 46 years ago — 81 years old
Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1939 to 1975. Played a significant role in the development of constitutional law and civil rights. Authored numerous opinions that shaped the interpretation of the First Amendment and environmental law. Advocated for individual rights and a broad interpretation of the Constitution.
Continue ReadingMarcus Gheeraerts the Younger
Flemish painter, renowned for portraits
Born
1561 465 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1636 390 years ago — 75 years old
This Flemish painter specialized in portraiture and contributed significantly to the art of the late Renaissance. Active mainly in England, his work had a distinct style characterized by detailed realism and vibrant color palettes. Received royal patronage from Queen Elizabeth I and gained recognition for his ability to capture likeness and personality in his subjects. Major works include portraits of notable figures such as Sir Francis Drake and various members of the English court. The artist's influence persisted beyond his lifetime, marking a notable presence in the history of British art.
Continue ReadingCharles Bent
American soldier, first Governor of New Mexico
Born
1799 227 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1847 179 years ago — 48 years old
Served as an American soldier and politician, becoming the first Governor of New Mexico after its annexation by the United States. Played a significant role in the administration of the territory during turbulent times following the Mexican-American War. His leadership in local politics was pivotal in establishing governance in the newly acquired region. Bent's tenure was marked by challenges, including relations with Native American tribes and internal political disputes. He became a historical figure in the establishment of New Mexico as part of the United States.
Continue ReadingFrançoise Giroud
French journalist and Minister of Culture
Born
September 21st, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2003 23 years ago — 86 years old
Contributions included significant journalism, screenwriting, and political roles. Served as the French Minister of Culture and helped shape cultural policy in the country. Played a crucial role in the establishment of public broadcasting in France, promoting cultural programming and arts.
Continue ReadingRichard Levins
Ecologist and geneticist, co-author of book.
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2016 10 years ago — 86 years old
An American ecologist and geneticist contributed significantly to the fields of ecology and genetics. Focused on mathematical models in ecology, emphasizing the complexities of ecosystems and evolutionary processes. Co-authored the influential book 'The Dialectical Biologist' which explored the relationship between biology and environmental factors. Advocated for a holistic approach to scientific research, integrating multiple disciplines to understand ecological systems. Engaged with social issues affecting science and proposed that scientific practices should be informed by social context.
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