Jean Rey
Belgian politician, 2nd President of EC
A prominent Belgian lawyer and politician held the position of the second President of the European Commission from 1967 to 1970. Played a crucial role in developing European integration during this tenure. Also served as the Minister of Transport and Communications in Belgium. Contributed significantly to various legal reforms and policies that shaped Belgium's participation in the European community. After leaving the European Commission, continued involvement in European affairs as a public figure and advocate for European unity.
Served as the 2nd President of the European Commission
Participated in the establishment of the European Economic Community
Other People Born on July 15th
Jürgen Möllemann
German politician and Vice-Chancellor
Born
July 15th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2003 22 years ago — 57 years old
Served as a soldier and politician, holding significant positions in the German government. Played a key role in the Free Democratic Party (FDP), rising to national prominence during his tenure. Served as Vice-Chancellor from 1998 to 1999, contributing to the coalition government during a critical period in German politics. Shifted from military service to political life, impacting both domestic and foreign policy discussions.
Continue ReadingClement Clarke Moore
American author of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas
Born
July 15th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1863 162 years ago — 83 years old
An author, poet, and educator, contributions include the well-loved poem 'A Visit from St. Nicholas,' commonly known as 'Twas the Night Before Christmas.' This poem has been published in numerous collections, becoming a traditional part of Christmas celebrations. Apart from literary work, engaged in education and wrote on various topics, including theology and philanthropy. Served as a professor at the General Theological Seminary in New York City, where he influenced many students and contributed to the theological curriculum.
Continue ReadingRisto Jarva
Finnish director, producer, and screenwriter
Born
July 15th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1977 48 years ago — 43 years old
Active in Finnish cinema from the 1960s until the early 1970s. Directed several notable films, including 'Kaksipäisen kotkan varjossa,' which explored themes of war and identity. Also produced the film 'Kirkastettu sydän,' showcasing his versatility in filmmaking. Contributed significantly to the development of Finnish film as a medium for addressing social issues and cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingSeán Lemass
Irish politician and 4th Taoiseach
Born
July 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 72 years old
Served as the 4th Taoiseach of Ireland from 1959 to 1966. Played a significant role in reshaping the Irish economy during the 1960s. Initiated policies that emphasized modernizing industry and promoting foreign investment. Implemented a program of economic reforms that aimed at increasing living standards.
Continue ReadingIchijō
Japanese emperor during the Heian period
Born
July 15th, 980 1045 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1011 1014 years ago — 31 years old
Reigned as emperor from 986 to 1011, ascending the throne at the age of six. Focused on forming a stable court and maintaining the traditions of the powerful Fujiwara clan. Oversaw a period characterized by cultural refinement, leading to developments in literature and the arts. Issued the 'Ritsu-ryō' legal codes which established governance and administrative frameworks. After death, remembered through various historical accounts and literary references from the Heian period.
Continue ReadingJacques Derrida
Philosopher and deconstruction theorist
Born
July 15th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2004 21 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Algeria, this philosopher contributed significantly to literary theory and philosophy. He developed the concept of deconstruction, which critiques the relationship between text and meaning, challenging traditional interpretations. Teaching at various institutions, including the École Normale Supérieure in Paris, he influenced a wide range of disciplines. Major works include "Of Grammatology" and "Writing and Difference," which established his reputation in post-structuralist thought. His ideas have permeated various fields, including law, architecture, and feminist theory.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 19th
Johann Friedrich von Eschscholtz
Physician and botanist known for plant studies
Born
November 12th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1831 194 years ago — 37 years old
Born in Livonia in 1793, a physician and botanist contributed to the understanding of various plant species. Conducted extensive botanical research, exploring regions across Europe and Alaska. Described numerous plants, many of which were later classified and named. Associated with the field of systematic botany, focused on collecting and documenting flora, contributing to botanical literature and taxonomy.
Continue ReadingJamsetji Tata
Indian businessman; founded Tata Group
Born
March 3rd, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1904 121 years ago — 65 years old
A prominent Indian industrialist and entrepreneur, established Tata Group, a conglomerate that has significantly influenced Indian industry. Initiated the development of industries in steel, hydroelectric power, and hospitality among others. Pioneered the establishment of Tata Steel, which became India's first major steel manufacturing company. Laid the groundwork for several educational and research institutions.
Continue ReadingJadunath Sarkar
Indian historian and biographer
Born
December 10th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1958 67 years ago — 87 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of history, focusing primarily on the Mughal Empire. Authored several foundational texts including 'History of Aurangzeb' and 'Rise and Fall of the Mughal Empire'. Served as a professor of history at the University of Calcutta, shaping the study of Indian history through rigorous methodologies. Developed a reputation as a leading scholar and critic of earlier historiography, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of India's past. Engaged in various academic pursuits and contributed to the establishment of history as a formal discipline in India.
Continue ReadingJacques Ellul
French philosopher and sociologist
Born
January 6th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1994 31 years ago — 82 years old
A French philosopher, sociologist, and critic, this individual focused on the sociological implications of technology and the effects of modernity on society. Contributions include thorough analyses of the interplay between technology, culture, and society. Authored notable works such as 'The Technological Society,' which critiques the advancement of technology and its domination over human values. His critique of propaganda is detailed in 'Propaganda: The Formation of Men's Attitudes,' emphasizing the role of media in shaping public perception. Engaged in discussions surrounding ethics, politics, and the future of humanity amidst rapid technological change.
Continue ReadingNathaniel Hawthorne
Novelist with The Scarlet Letter fame
Born
July 4th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1864 161 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1804, a significant American novelist and short story writer emerged, contributing to the American literary canon. The work often explored themes of morality, guilt, and human nature. The Scarlet Letter, published in 1850, became one of the most important works in American literature, showcasing a complex tale of sin and redemption in Puritan New England. Other notable works include The House of the Seven Gables and The Blithedale Romance, which reflect his interest in historical fiction and the human psyche. Hawthorne's unique writing style combined realism with romanticism, influencing future generations of authors.
Continue ReadingGarret FitzGerald
Irish politician and Taoiseach
Born
February 9th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
May 19th, 2011 14 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 8th Taoiseach of Ireland from 1982 to 1987. Played a significant role in Irish politics and was involved in various government reforms. Worked towards improving relations between Ireland and Northern Ireland and contributed to policy changes related to the economy and social issues. Was a prominent figure in the Fine Gael party and held other important government positions throughout a lengthy career in public service.
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