James Elphinston

Scottish philologist and linguist

James Elphinston - Scottish philologist and linguist
Born

December 6th, 1721
303 years ago

Died

October 8th, 1809
215 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Scotland

Links & References

Born in Scotland, this individual contributed significantly to the study of language and phonetics. Focused on the correct pronunciation of English, engaged in efforts to reform English spelling. Developed a system of phonetic notation, aiding in the teaching of pronunciation. Published works such as 'The Universal Grammar' and 'A New and Accurate Method of Teaching Pronunciation' that influenced language education. Held the position of a schoolmaster and was involved in various educational reforms during his career.

Developed a phonetic notation system

Published 'A New and Accurate Method of Teaching Pronunciation'

Engaged in educational reforms

Other People Born on December 6th

Tom Hulce

Actor in Amadeus and Animal House
Born
December 6th, 1953 71 years ago

An American actor, achieved prominence in the 1980s. Gained recognition for the role of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in the film 'Amadeus', which won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Also starred as Larry in 'Animal House', a successful comedy that became a cultural phenomenon. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his role in 'Equus'. Throughout the career, collaborated with notable directors and participated in various stage and screen productions.

Continue Reading

Gabriel Duvall

American jurist and politician
Born
December 6th, 1752 272 years ago
Died
1844 181 years ago — 92 years old

Served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1811 to 1835. Held the position of Maryland State Senator and also served as the state's Comptroller. Played a significant role in shaping early American legal frameworks and was involved in various legislative matters throughout his political career.

Continue Reading

Frank Springer

Comic book illustrator for 'Daredevil'
Born
December 6th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 80 years old

An American comic book illustrator contributed significantly to the comic book industry. Started career in the 1940s, working with several publishers. Gained recognition for work on titles such as 'Daredevil,' 'The Amazing Spider-Man,' and 'Superman.' Involved in various genres, including romance and humor comics. Also contributed to the design of comic strips and advertising art. Continued to work in the industry until retirement, leaving a notable legacy.

Continue Reading

Elián González

Cuban figure in custody case 2000
Born
December 6th, 1993 31 years ago

Elián González became a central figure in a highly publicized custody battle after being found off the coast of Florida in 1999. González was a five-year-old Cuban boy who had arrived in the United States alone, having survived a perilous journey across the Florida Straits. The child's custody arrangements led to a contentious dispute between his relatives in the U.S. who wished to keep him and his father in Cuba who sought his return. The case drew national attention and became emblematic of the broader U.S.-Cuba relations. Ultimately, in June 2000, federal agents removed González from his relatives' home, and he was returned to Cuba.

Continue Reading

Sandra Nurmsalu

Estonian singer and violinist with 'Kohtumist' album
Born
December 6th, 1988 36 years ago

Born in Estonia, a musician gained recognition as a singer and violinist. Achievements include participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2009 representing Estonia and significant contributions to the Estonian music scene. Released the album 'Kohtumist' which showcased a blend of pop and classical influences. Frequently performed in various venues across Estonia, contributing to the local cultural landscape through music.

Continue Reading

Adrian Borland

English singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
December 6th, 1957 67 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1999 26 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent figure in the post-punk music scene, contributed significantly to the genre through the band The Sound. Served as the band's lead vocalist and guitarist, releasing several albums that explored themes of alienation and existentialism. Later embarked on a solo career, producing music that maintained a loyal following despite limited commercial success. Worked as a producer for various artists, showcasing a strong commitment to his craft. Passed away in 1999, leaving a legacy of influential music and a dedicated fan base.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 8th

Wendell Willkie

American lawyer and 1940 presidential nominee
Born
February 18th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1944 80 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1892, a lawyer and businessman emerged as a prominent political figure in the United States. Initially aligned with the Democratic Party, transitioned to the Republican Party and secured the presidential nomination in 1940. Ran against Franklin D. Roosevelt, advocating for free enterprise and internationalism during World War II. After the election, continued contributing to political discourse and public policy discussions until death in 1944.

Continue Reading

Juan O'Donojú

Last Spanish ruler of Mexico
Born
1762 263 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1821 203 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the last Spanish Viceroy of New Spain. Concluded the Mexican War of Independence following the signing of the Treaty of Cordoba in 1821, which recognized Mexican independence from Spanish rule. His tenure marked the end of colonial governance in Mexico. After the treaty, attempted to stabilize the new government but faced resistance from various factions.

Continue Reading

Miguel Grau Seminario

Admiral known for naval heroism
Born
July 27th, 1834 190 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1879 145 years ago — 45 years old

An admiral in the Peruvian Navy, played a significant role in the War of the Pacific (1879-1884) against Chile. Commanded the ironclad Huáscar, achieving several naval victories. His leadership and bravery during the conflict made him a celebrated figure in Peru. Grau's dedication to his crew and ethical conduct in warfare garnered respect from both allies and adversaries.

Continue Reading

John George I

Elector of Saxony during the Thirty Years' War
Born
March 5th, 1585 440 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1656 368 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1585, served as Elector of Saxony from 1611 until death in 1656. Played a significant role in the Thirty Years' War, initially aligning with the Protestant states in the Holy Roman Empire. In 1635, signed the Treaty of Prague, which sought to bring stability to the war-torn region. Focused on strengthening the economic and political power of Saxony during a period of upheaval. Engaged in various military campaigns to protect the interests of Saxony.

Continue Reading

Remedios Varo

Surrealist painter & anarchist
Born
December 16th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1963 61 years ago — 54 years old

Born in Spain, a prominent surrealist painter and anarchist painted magical and fantastical imagery that often blended elements of mysticism and science. Emigrating to Mexico during the Spanish Civil War, became part of the vibrant art community in Mexico City, collaborating with fellow surrealists and contributing to the development of surrealism in Latin America. Varo's work explored themes of transformation, feminism, and the subconscious, gaining attention for unique visual language. Major exhibitions of works took place posthumously, solidifying significance within the art world.

Continue Reading

François-Adrien Boieldieu

French composer and pianist of operas
Born
December 16th, 1775 249 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1834 190 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent French composer of the 19th century, contributed significantly to the operatic repertoire. Best recognized for operas, particularly 'La dame blanche' which premiered in 1825. Also composed several concertos and chamber works that highlighted the capabilities of the piano. Active during a period of transition in French opera, blending elements of traditional French operatic style with influences from Italian opera. Played a significant role in the development of the opéra-comique, which integrated spoken dialogue with music. His work was widely performed in France and beyond, earning a reputation among contemporaries.

Continue Reading