Jean-François Champollion

French philologist and scholar of Egyptology

Jean-François Champollion - French philologist and scholar of Egyptology
Born

December 23rd, 1790
234 years ago

Died

March 4th, 1832
193 years ago — 41 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent philologist and scholar, contributions revolved around the study of ancient Egyptian language and scripts. Champollion is recognized for deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs, which opened the door for the understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization. The Rosetta Stone played a crucial role in this achievement, as it provided the key to translating hieroglyphs alongside Greek text. His work laid the foundation for modern Egyptology, leading to significant advancements in the study of ancient cultures.

Deciphered Egyptian hieroglyphs using the Rosetta Stone

Established foundations of modern Egyptology

Other People Born on December 23rd

Noella Leduc

American baseball player
Born
December 23rd, 1933 91 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2014 10 years ago — 80 years old

An American baseball player, active primarily in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Played for the Fort Wayne Daisies and the South Bend Blue Sox during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Leduc was a talented infielder known for her competitive spirit and dedication to the game. After the league's closure, she participated in various exhibitions to promote women's baseball.

Continue Reading

Anthony Phillips

Guitarist and songwriter for Genesis
Born
December 23rd, 1951 73 years ago

An English guitarist and songwriter contributed significantly to the progressive rock band Genesis during its early years. Helped shape the band's sound with intricate guitar work and multilayered compositions. Phillips left Genesis after the album 'Nursery Cryme', but continued a successful solo career exploring various musical styles. Developed a reputation for melodic and sophisticated guitar pieces, integrating classical and contemporary influences into his work. Released several solo albums and collaborated with fellow musicians over the years, influencing a generation of guitarists and songwriters.

Continue Reading

Richard Dannatt

British General and military leader
Born
December 23rd, 1950 74 years ago

A senior officer in the British Army, served as Chief of the General Staff from 2006 to 2009. Oversaw operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, focusing on counter-insurgency strategies. Actively contributed to discussions on military reform and defense policy. Appointed a crossbench peer in the House of Lords.

Continue Reading

Chet Baker

Jazz Trumpet Player and Singer
Born
December 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1988 36 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent jazz trumpet player, flugelhorn player, and singer, this individual significantly contributed to the West Coast jazz scene during the 1950s. Recognized for a distinct style and warm tone, performances showcased unique improvisation and a delicate vocal quality. Album releases such as 'Chet Baker Sings' garnered critical recognition and brought a new audience to jazz music. Collaborated with various artists, shaping the genre's evolution during a pivotal period. Struggled with personal challenges yet continued to perform and record music until later in life.

Continue Reading

Carol Ann Duffy

Scottish poet and playwright, multiple award winner
Born
December 23rd, 1955 69 years ago

A prominent Scottish poet and playwright, this individual gained recognition for addressing themes of gender, identity, and social issues through poetry and drama. In 2009, appointed Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom, becoming the first woman to hold the position. Works include 'The World’s Wife' and 'Rapture', both exploring female perspectives and experiences. The poetry often incorporates historical and mythological allusions. Plays such as 'The Last September' also reflect a keen understanding of human emotion and societal constructs.

Continue Reading

Hanley Ramírez

Dominican baseball player, 2009 AL MVP runner-up
Born
December 23rd, 1983 41 years ago

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2006. Played for the Florida Marlins, where he earned the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2006. Transitioned to the Boston Red Sox in 2015 and contributed to their offense. Known for versatility in playing shortstop and third base. Achieved considerable success during career, including multiple All-Star selections and Silver Slugger Awards.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 4th

Mickey Moore

Actor and director, The Jerk
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2013 12 years ago — 99 years old

This individual was a Canadian-American actor and director. The career spanned several decades, primarily in film and television. Acted in the comedy film ‘The Jerk’ alongside Steve Martin. Transitioned into directing and produced various successful projects. Worked with multiple actors and contributed significantly to the production of entertainment.

Continue Reading

Nancy Tyson Burbidge

Botanist and curator specializing in flora
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1977 48 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of botany, focusing on the flora of Australia. Worked as a curator at the National Herbarium of New South Wales. Published numerous scientific papers and was involved in the classification and description of various plant species. Played a key role in the establishment of the Australian National Herbarium.

Continue Reading

Gerardo Barbero

Argentinian chess player and master
Born
August 21st, 1961 63 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2001 24 years ago — 39 years old

Achieved the title of International Master in chess. Competed in numerous national and international tournaments, showcasing exceptional skills and strategies in the game. Contributed to the chess community through teaching, fostering new talent and promoting chess in Argentina. Played a key role in popularizing chess across the nation through various events and activities.

Continue Reading

Jakub Świnka

Polish archbishop and church leader
Died
March 4th, 1314 711 years ago — None years old

Served as the Archbishop of Gniezno, significantly influencing the Polish church during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Played a key role in the religious and political affairs of Poland. Participated in various church councils and maintained relations with other European clergy. His tenure was marked by the consolidation of ecclesiastical authority and the promotion of education within the clergy.

Continue Reading

Javier Pérez de Cuéllar

Peruvian diplomat and Prime Minister
Born
January 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 4th, 2020 5 years ago — 100 years old

A prominent Peruvian diplomat and politician, served as the 135th Prime Minister of Peru from 1980 to 1985. Held the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1981 to 1991, where significant initiatives included conflict resolution efforts in various regions. Played a crucial role in peace negotiations related to the Iran-Iraq War and the Namibia conflict. Also served as ambassador to France and has been involved in various international diplomatic efforts throughout a lengthy career.

Continue Reading

Fausto Sozzini

Italian theologian and educator
Born
December 5th, 1539 485 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1604 421 years ago — 64 years old

Sozzini contributed significantly to theological discourse, focusing on anti-Trinitarianism. Engaged in debates regarding the nature of God and Christ, he advanced rationalist thought. His works laid foundational ideas for later theological developments, influencing various groups including the Socinians. Sozzini also emphasized the importance of reason and morality in faith, advocating for a more rational approach to religious belief. His educational efforts were notable in shaping the understanding of Protestant theology in the late 16th century.

Continue Reading