James McCune Smith
African-American physician and author

Born
April 18th, 1813
212 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1865
159 years ago — 52 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1813, a pioneering African-American physician and apothecary practiced medicine in New York City. Received a medical degree from the University of Glasgow, becoming the first African American to earn a medical degree in the United States. Actively participated in abolitionist movements and published works addressing social issues, including healthcare disparities and racial inequality. Contributed significantly to the discourse on race and medicine in the 19th century.
First African American to earn a medical degree in the United States
Published works on social issues regarding race and healthcare
Other People Born on April 18th
Wojciech Szczęsny
A professional football goalkeeper began playing for Legia Warsaw. Achieved international recognition after transferring to Arsenal in 2009, where significant contributions were made in Premier League matches. Later moved to AS Roma and then Juventus FC, earning multiple Serie A titles. Represented the Poland national team in major tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2016 and the FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingIppolita Maria Sforza
Born into the prominent Sforza family, held the title of Duchess of Milan through marriage. Actively participated in court life and managed political alliances during a time of significant instability in Northern Italy. Engaged in diplomacy and governance, influencing the political landscape through strategic marital ties and familial connections. A patron of the arts, supported cultural development in Milan, contributing to the region's legacy. Her marriage to Francesco II Sforza helped solidify power dynamics within the duchy.
Continue ReadingOtto Piene
A German sculptor and academic contributed significantly to the field of art through innovative use of materials and light in sculpture. Piene played a pivotal role in the formation of the Zero Group, which emphasized the importance of movement and light in contemporary art. His works often involved outdoor installations that interacted with natural elements. Throughout a career that spanned several decades, Piene held various teaching positions at prestigious institutions, influencing a generation of artists. His pieces have been exhibited widely in galleries and museums around the world, showcasing experimental approaches to sculpture and visual art.
Continue ReadingConan O'Brien
A television host, comedian, and podcaster, this individual began a career in comedy writing before rising to prominence as the host of 'Late Night with Conan O'Brien' in 1993. Later, hosted 'The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien' and his own show, 'Conan'. The style combined introspective humor with absurdist sketches, appealing to a broad audience. Additionally, ventured into podcasting with 'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend', further expanding his reach in entertainment.
Continue ReadingLucrezia Borgia
Born into the powerful Borgia family, played a significant role in the politics of Renaissance Italy. Daughter of Pope Alexander VI, married three times, enhancing the family's political alliances. Managed her own duchy through a tumultuous period characterized by intrigue and conflict. Her life reflected the complexities of power and gender in a male-dominated society.
Continue ReadingK'an II
Ruled as a king of Palenque during the 7th century, presiding over a significant period of the city's history. This ruler was involved in various construction projects and territorial expansion, contributing to the city's prominence in the Maya civilization. His reign occurred during a time when Palenque was characterized by remarkable achievements in art and architecture. K'an II's leadership facilitated the development of the city as a cultural and political center. Inscriptions and monuments from this period elaborate on royal lineage and dynastic claims.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 17th
George Stephen Morrison
Served in the United States Navy and attained the rank of admiral. Participated in World War II and the Vietnam War, commanding naval forces during significant operations. Oversaw naval operations during the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964, which escalated U.S. involvement in Vietnam. Later served as commander of the U.S. Naval Forces in the Pacific. Retired from the Navy in 1975 and continued to contribute to military and naval discussions until passing in 2008.
Continue ReadingBernardo Bellotto
An Italian painter and printmaker, became a prominent figure in the 18th century art scene. Specializing in landscapes and cityscapes, created detailed depictions of various European cities. Worked extensively in Poland, capturing architectural details and urban life of Warsaw, Dresden, and Venice through the artistic technique of 'vedute'. His works were characterized by precision and a sense of perspective, contributing significantly to the genre of topographical painting. Bellotto also served as court painter to King Augustus III of Poland.
Continue ReadingZeke Bella
An American baseball player played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1946 and played for the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Giants. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1948, showcasing remarkable talent during his career before retiring in 1953. After retirement, remained involved in baseball through various mentoring roles.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Budes
Led French forces during the Thirty Years' War, serving under Cardinal Richelieu. Commanded the French army at several key battles, contributing to military strategies and outcomes during the conflict. Played a significant role in various campaigns in Germany, enhancing French military presence and influence in Europe.
Continue ReadingRobert Hofstadter
A physicist conducted pioneering research in the structure of nucleons through electron scattering experiments. Contributed significantly to the field of quantum electrodynamics and understanding of strong interactions. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1961 for his work in measuring the charge distribution within the proton and neutron, which advanced knowledge in particle physics. Held academic positions at Stanford University, influencing the next generation of physicists.
Continue ReadingRobert Comtesse
Born in 1847, this individual served as a prominent figure in Swiss politics. Contributed to legal reforms and engaged in public service as a member of the Swiss Federal Council, serving from 1881 to 1889. Held the position of head of the Department of Justice and Police, focusing on legislative and judicial matters. Played a significant role in the establishment of modern Swiss legal frameworks and governance structures.
Continue Reading