João Figueiredo
Brazilian politician and general
Became the 30th President of Brazil, serving from 1979 to 1985. Oversaw the transition from military rule to democratic governance. Implemented economic stabilization measures and faced significant political challenges during his presidency, including civil unrest and inflation reduction efforts. Figueiredo's administration is marked by attempts to liberalize the political landscape and restore civil rights after years of military dictatorship.
Served as President of Brazil from 1979 to 1985
Led the country during the transition to democracy
Implemented economic policies to stabilize Brazil
Other People Born on January 15th
Martin Dúbravka
Professional footballer and goalkeeper
Born
January 15th, 1989 37 years ago
A goalkeeper active in professional football since 2007. Began career in Slovakia before moving to play for various clubs in the Czech Republic and England. Played for Newcastle United in the Premier League, contributing to the team's competitive efforts. Internationally represented Slovakia multiple times, including appearances in UEFA European Championships.
Continue ReadingIryna Lishchynska
Ukrainian long-distance runner, Olympian
Born
January 15th, 1976 50 years ago
Born in 1976, a long-distance runner represented Ukraine in multiple international competitions, including the Olympics. Achieved notable success in marathon events and became a prominent figure in Ukrainian athletics during the late 20th century. Participated in various championships, showcasing exceptional endurance and skill on the track.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Wakkas
Bangladeshi teacher and parliamentarian
Born
January 15th, 1952 74 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2021 4 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1952, a notable figure in Bangladeshi education and politics. Served as a teacher and held a significant role in parliament as a member of the Awami League. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at improving literacy and access to education in Bangladesh. Contributed to legislative discussions and policies affecting the educational sector in the country.
Continue ReadingDrew Brees
American football quarterback and Super Bowl MVP
Born
January 15th, 1979 47 years ago
American football quarterback played for the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints. Achieved significant success in the NFL, especially with the Saints, leading the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2010. Brees set many passing records during his career, including career passing yards and completions. After retiring in 2020, transitioned into sports analysis and philanthropy.
Continue ReadingMartin Štrbák
Slovak ice hockey player and defenseman
Born
January 15th, 1975 51 years ago
Born in Slovakia, a professional ice hockey defenseman played in the National Hockey League (NHL) and various European leagues. Started a career in the early 1990s, playing for teams including the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers. Gained recognition for solid defensive skills and contributions to team success. Represented Slovakia in international competitions, winning a bronze medal at the 2003 IIHF World Championship.
Continue ReadingJose Dalisay Jr.
Filipino poet and screenwriter
Born
January 15th, 1954 72 years ago
A prominent Filipino poet, author, and screenwriter, this individual contributed significantly to Philippine literature. Known for works that reflect the complexities of Filipino identity, wrote extensively in both English and Filipino. Created successful screenplays for Filipino films while also gaining recognition for literary contributions. Engaged in teaching and mentoring young writers, influencing future generations of Filipino artists.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 24th
Charbel Makhluf
Lebanese monk and recognized saint
Born
May 8th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1898 127 years ago — 70 years old
Born in a small village in Lebanon, a monk dedicated life to spirituality after joining the Lebanese Maronite Order. Spent years in solitude and prayer, notably at the Monastery of St. Maroun in Annaya. Engaged in practices of asceticism, healing, and devotion, contributing to the Christian tradition in Lebanon. Passed away in 1898, with a reputation for performing miracles attributed to his intercession. Canonized as a saint in 1977 by the Catholic Church, he has become a significant figure in Maronite spirituality.
Continue ReadingPierre Péladeau
Canadian businessman, founded Quebecor
Born
April 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1997 28 years ago — 72 years old
A significant figure in Canadian business, founded Quebecor in 1965, a major telecommunications and media company. Expanded operations into the newspaper, television, and printing industries, transforming Quebec's media landscape. Influenced the growth of French-language media in Canada. Péladeau's leadership and vision established Quebecor as a powerful player in the market, leading to numerous acquisitions and a lasting legacy in Canadian entrepreneurship.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Ackermann
German mathematician and logician
Born
March 29th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1962 63 years ago — 66 years old
A mathematician and logician, contributions included work on mathematical logic and the foundations of mathematics. Developed the Ackermann function, an important example in the theory of computable functions. Worked on model theory and was a professor at various universities throughout Germany. His research laid groundwork for future developments in both logic and computer science.
Continue ReadingLouis Aragon
French author and poet, Surrealism advocate
Born
October 3rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1982 43 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1897, this author and poet played a significant role in the Surrealist movement in literature. Involved with key figures like André Breton, he helped shape avant-garde poetic expression. His work often explored themes of love, politics, and social issues. In addition to poetry, he contributed to novels, essays, and criticism, with notable works such as 'Le Paysan de Paris' and 'Les Aventures de Télémaque.' His literary contributions spanned decades, leaving a lasting legacy in modern French literature. During the Second World War, he dedicated himself to the Resistance against Nazi occupation, which further defined his role as a public intellectual.
Continue ReadingJohn Boswell
Historian and philologist, author of 'Same-Sex Unions'
Born
March 20th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1994 31 years ago — 47 years old
An American historian and philologist focused on the history of sexuality, particularly the intersection of sexuality and religion. Served as a professor at Yale University, contributing to academic discourse through extensive research and publications. Wrote 'Same-Sex Unions in Pre-Modern Europe', which examined historical practices and ceremonies surrounding same-sex relationships. His work highlighted the existence of same-sex unions in diverse cultures and time periods, broadening the understanding of sexuality in historical contexts.
Continue ReadingSyl Apps
Canadian pole vaulter and ice hockey player
Born
January 18th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1998 27 years ago — 83 years old
A dual-sport athlete and politician, this individual excelled in pole vaulting and ice hockey. In pole vaulting, set multiple Canadian records and competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. As a player, participated in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Toronto Maple Leafs and was part of the team that won the Stanley Cup in 1942. After retiring from sports, entered politics and served as a Member of Parliament in Canada.
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