Jaakko Hintikka
Finnish philosopher and logician
Contributed significantly to philosophy and logic, specifically in the fields of epistemology and the philosophy of language. Developed methods in game-theoretical semantics, which influenced various areas of logic and philosophy. Worked on formal systems and the foundations of mathematics. Held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, enhancing scholarly discourse and research in his fields of expertise.
Developed game-theoretical semantics
Contributed to epistemology and philosophy of language
Other People Born on January 12th
Antonio de Ulloa
Spanish general and politician, Louisiana Governor
Born
January 12th, 1716 310 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1795 230 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Spain in 1716, a military officer and politician served as the first Spanish governor of Louisiana from 1766 to 1768. Played a significant role in establishing Spanish control over the region following the transfer of Louisiana from France. Focused on governance and economic development, promoting agriculture and trade as vital to the colony's success. His tenure included efforts to improve relations with local Indigenous tribes. Departed from Louisiana after a brief governorship due to political challenges and returned to Spain, where continued military service ensued until later in life.
Continue ReadingNaya Rivera
Actress and Singer; Glee Star
Born
January 12th, 1987 39 years ago
Died
July 8th, 2020 5 years ago — 33 years old
An American actress and singer, recognized for a prominent role in the television series 'Glee.' Portrayed the character Santana Lopez from 2009 to 2015, which gained significant acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Rivera showcased vocal talent through musical performances in the series, contributing to multiple soundtracks. Earlier appearances included roles in 'The Royal Family' and 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.' Beyond acting, released a solo music album, demonstrating versatility in the entertainment industry. Tragically passed away in 2020.
Continue ReadingJames Farmer
Civil rights activist and politician
Born
January 12th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 79 years old
An American activist and politician, played a significant role in the civil rights movement. Co-founded the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) in 1942, which became an important organization in the struggle for racial equality. Participated in various campaigns for civil rights, including the Freedom Rides in 1961, which aimed to desegregate public transportation in the South. Served as a national director of CORE and advocated for nonviolent protest as a means to achieve social change. Farmer's efforts contributed to the advancement of civil rights legislation in the United States.
Continue ReadingTim Horton
Ice hockey player, co-founder of Tim Hortons
Born
January 12th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved two Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in 1962 and 1963. After retiring from hockey, co-founded the Tim Hortons restaurant chain, which became a prominent fast food franchise in Canada. Horton passed away in a car accident in 1974, but his legacy continues through the coffee and donut chain.
Continue ReadingRay Harroun
Race car driver and engineer, Marmon Wasp
Born
January 12th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1968 58 years ago — 89 years old
An American race car driver and engineer, contributed significantly to the evolution of motorsports. Achieved fame by winning the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 driving the Marmon Wasp. Pioneered the use of rearview mirrors in automobiles to enhance driver safety and visibility. Harroun's innovations and racing strategies played a crucial role in shaping early 20th-century auto racing.
Continue ReadingPetrus Scriverius
Dutch historian and scholar
Born
January 12th, 1576 450 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1660 365 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of history and scholarship in the early 17th century. Served as a professor at the University of Leiden, focusing on various historical texts and manuscripts. Published several works that compiled historical narratives and analysis, including studies on the history of the Netherlands and the esteem of prominent figures in Dutch history. Engaged in debates regarding historical interpretation and methodology, influencing future historians.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
Kim Kahana
Actor and stunt performer
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent actor and stunt performer with a career spanning multiple decades. Gained recognition for participation in numerous film and television projects, often performing complex stunts. Contributed to the entertainment industry through a variety of roles that demonstrated expertise in physical performance. Worked on several notable film productions and television series, showcasing a strong dedication to the craft of stunt work alongside acting.
Continue ReadingAlf Morris
English politician and activist
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent politician and activist, dedicated efforts focused on disability rights and health care reform. Served as the Member of Parliament for Wythenshawe from 1964 to 1997. Played a key role in the introduction of the first Disability Discrimination Act in 1995, which aimed to protect the rights of disabled individuals in the UK. Advocated for various other social causes throughout parliamentary career, contributing to significant legislative changes in health policies.
Continue ReadingMark Gruenwald
Comic book author and illustrator
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1996 29 years ago — 43 years old
An influential comic book author and illustrator, played a significant role in the development of various Marvel Comics series. Served as an editor for Marvel for several decades, shaping storylines and character arcs. Contributed to the iconic series such as 'Captain America', 'The Avengers', and 'The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe'. Worked on the creation of noteworthy characters and storylines that defined the comic book landscape during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingUna Stubbs
English actress and dancer in TV and film
Born
May 1st, 1937 88 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2021 4 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1937, an accomplished English actress and dancer. Gained prominence through performances in television and film. Played significant roles in the series 'Till Death Us Do Part' and 'Sherlock'. Also featured in various stage productions, showcasing versatility as a performer. Worked extensively in the entertainment industry, both on-screen and on-stage, contributing to the arts for several decades.
Continue ReadingMeshulim Feish Lowy
Rabbi and author of Jewish texts
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
A rabbi and author, contributed significantly to Jewish literature and education. Raised in Hungary, relocated to Canada, where continued religious leadership and community building. Focused on Jewish texts and traditions, advocating education and scholarship within the community. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting Jewish knowledge.
Continue ReadingChristie Allen
Singer known for 'Goosebumps'
Born
1954 72 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 54 years old
Christie Allen was an English-Australian singer-songwriter who gained prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s. She released several albums, with her most notable work being the song 'Goosebumps,' which achieved significant chart success in Australia. Allen's music often blended pop and rock elements, showcasing her vocal talent and songwriting abilities. She was active in the Australian music scene and contributed to the development of the genre during a vibrant era for Australian artists. Her career included touring and performances that solidified her presence in the music industry until her passing in 2008.
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