Irene Greenwood
Australian radio broadcaster and activist
A significant figure in Australian media, one of the first female radio broadcasters contributed to the Australian Broadcasting Commission. Advocated for women’s rights and peace during a period of social change. Involved in various feminist organizations and peace movements, influencing public discourse on gender equality and social justice. Actively worked to promote women's participation in broadcasting and other professions, paving the way for future generations of women in media.
Pioneered female representation in Australian radio
Advocated for women's rights and peace initiatives
Other People Born on December 9th
Gregorios Xenopoulos
Greek author and playwright
Born
December 9th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1951 74 years ago — 83 years old
An influential Greek author, journalist, and playwright. Contributed significantly to 20th-century Greek literature. Wrote novels celebrating the Greek landscape and culture, often depicting the struggles of ordinary people. His works include plays that were performed in theaters across Greece, enhancing the cultural dialogue of the time. Held various positions in literary and journalistic circles, actively engaging with contemporary political and social issues in Greece.
Continue ReadingAlbert Weisbord
American activist, Communist League founder
Born
December 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 77 years old
An activist involved in the labor movement, played a significant role in the early 20th-century communist movement in the United States. Founded the Communist League of Struggle, which aimed to unite and organize workers under communist principles. Engaged in political education and organizing efforts throughout the 1930s and 1940s. The organization worked to address worker rights and advocated for socialist policies during a time of economic hardship in the U.S.
Continue ReadingJames Jesus Angleton
CIA Chief of Counterintelligence
Born
December 9th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent figure in the CIA, played a crucial role in shaping U.S. intelligence strategies during the Cold War. Served as Chief of Counterintelligence from 1954 until 1974, overseeing operations and analyzing counterespionage threats. Developed a reputation for his involvement in various covert operations and for managing sensitive intelligence regarding the Soviet Union. Also contributed to the establishment of numerous intelligence assessment methodologies that influenced national security strategies. His tenure was marked by intense scrutiny of Soviet espionage activities, leading to significant internal investigations within the agency. His influence extended beyond his official role, impacting intelligence community practices and methodologies in the years following his retirement.
Continue ReadingKirsten Gillibrand
American politician and U.S. senator
Born
December 9th, 1966 59 years ago
Elected to the United States Senate in 2009, served as a representative for New York. Advocated for women's rights, military reform, and health care issues. Played a significant role in the Senate committees on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Armed Services. Previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York's 20th congressional district. Appointed to fill the vacancy left by Hillary Clinton, completed the full term and was re-elected multiple times.
Continue ReadingMetius
Dutch mathematician and astronomer
Born
December 9th, 1571 454 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1635 390 years ago — 63 years old
A mathematician and astronomer contributed to the fields of trigonometry and astronomy. Developed a star catalog and worked on improving astronomical instruments. Associated with the introduction of a novel method for surveying. Helped in the advancement of mathematical techniques in the 17th century.
Continue ReadingGustavus Adolphus of Sweden
Swedish King and military leader
Born
December 9th, 1594 431 years ago
Died
1632 393 years ago — 38 years old
A monarch who reigned from 1611 to 1632, implemented significant military reforms that modernized the Swedish army, and led Sweden during the Thirty Years' War. The introduction of mobile artillery and the use of combined arms tactics were hallmarks of his military strategy. Gustavus Adolphus achieved numerous victories, including the Battle of Breitenfeld, which was pivotal in establishing Sweden as a major European power. His efforts contributed to the rise of Protestantism in Europe, and he is often regarded as a key figure in the military history of Sweden.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 14th
Orlando Julius
Nigerian saxophonist and singer
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2022 3 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent saxophonist and singer, contributions spanned several decades in the Nigerian music scene. Influenced by highlife, jazz, and funk, created a unique sound that resonated both locally and internationally. Collaborated with various artists and was instrumental in the evolution of Nigerian music. Notably, released the album 'Super Afro Soul', which features a blend of traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds.
Continue ReadingPiermario Morosini
Italian footballer and midfielder
Born
July 5th, 1986 39 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2012 13 years ago — 25 years old
Played as a midfielder in Italian football, spending the majority of his career with several clubs including Atalanta, Pescara, and Livorno. Morosini began his professional career with Atalanta in 2004 and subsequently had loan spells before establishing himself at Livorno. His life ended tragically on the pitch during a match, leading to widespread discussions about player health and safety in sports.
Continue ReadingPercy Sledge
American singer with iconic soul music
Born
November 25th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
An American singer achieved prominence in the 1960s with his emotive voice and soulful ballads. Best recognized for the hit single 'When a Man Loves a Woman,' which topped the charts and became a classic. Sledge's music career was marked by a blend of rhythm and blues, soul, and gospel influences, contributing significantly to the genre's popularity. His music not only captured the hearts of listeners but also influenced future generations of artists. Sledge received a Grammy Hall of Fame award for 'When a Man Loves a Woman' and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingKlaus Bednarz
German journalist and author
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 73 years old
A German journalist and author contributed significantly to the landscape of media and literature. Worked as a reporter for various publications, providing in-depth analysis and commentary on political and social issues. Bednarz's most notable work includes investigative journalism that examined the dynamics of East and West Germany. Authored several books addressing contemporary history and the challenges of reunification. Received recognition for contributions to journalism and literature during an extensive career.
Continue ReadingHiroshi Teshigahara
Japanese director and screenwriter of films
Born
January 28th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 14th, 2001 24 years ago — 74 years old
Directed films that explored the human experience and existential themes. Prominent works include 'Woman of the Dunes', which received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination. Established a unique cinematic style combining visual artistry with deep psychological narratives. Worked in collaboration with avant-garde artist and writer to adapt literary works into film. Contributed to the Japanese New Wave movement.
Continue ReadingF. R. Leavis
English educator and literary critic
Born
1895 130 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1978 47 years ago — 83 years old
An influential English educator and literary critic. Contributed significantly to literary criticism and education in the 20th century. Emphasized the importance of close reading and the moral dimension of literature. Edited and contributed to various literary journals, championing modern English literature and criticism.
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