Johan Vilhelm Snellman

Finnish philosopher and politician

Johan Vilhelm Snellman - Finnish philosopher and politician
Born

May 12th, 1806
219 years ago

Died

July 4th, 1881
144 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Finland

Links & References

Born in 1806, a philosopher and politician contributed significantly to the development of Finnish identity and nationalism. Played a critical role in the establishment of Finnish as a national language. Engaged in debates that shaped Finnish society and culture, emphasizing the importance of education and civic responsibility. Served as a member of the Senate and participated in various government initiatives that promoted Finnish autonomy within the Russian Empire.

Advocated for the Finnish language's importance

Participated in the establishment of Finnish nationalism

Served in the Senate of Finland

Other People Born on May 12th

Emilio Estevez

American actor and director of The Breakfast Club
Born
May 12th, 1962 63 years ago

Estevez started a career in acting in the 1980s, gaining recognition for roles in iconic films such as The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo's Fire. He also starred in The Mighty Ducks series, portraying coach Gordon Bombay. In addition to acting, Estevez took on directing roles, showcasing talents behind the camera with films like Bobby. Estevez is part of the famous Estevez family, with connections to other notable actors. His work spans both television and film, contributing to a significant presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Gabriel Fauré

French composer and pianist
Born
May 12th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1924 100 years ago — 79 years old

A notable figure in French music, contributions include compositions that blend classical forms with French sensibility. Served as director of theParis Conservatoire, influencing future generations of musicians. His music exhibits smooth melodies and innovative harmonic structures, prominent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Continue Reading

Louis Hennepin

Flemish priest and explorer
Born
May 12th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
1705 320 years ago — 79 years old

A Flemish priest and missionary, played a significant role in the exploration of North America during the 17th century. Served as a member of a French expedition and traveled extensively in present-day Canada and the United States. Recorded and published detailed accounts of his journeys, including the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. His works contributed to the European knowledge of the interior of North America.

Continue Reading

Roy Salvadori

Racing driver with Le Mans successes
Born
May 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

Active as a racing driver from the 1950s, participation included Formula One and sports car racing. Achieved notable success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, finishing second overall in 1950 driving for Aston Martin. Competed in various other significant races across Europe and served as a manager for racing teams later in his career. His experience in the sport contributed to advancements in racing strategies and team management.

Continue Reading

Julius Rosenberg

American spy and nuclear espionage figure
Born
May 12th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1953 72 years ago — 35 years old

Engaged in espionage activities during the Cold War, which included passing atomic secrets to the Soviet Union. Arrested in 1950 alongside his wife for conspiracy to commit espionage. Their trial garnered significant media attention and raised debates about loyalty and security in the United States. Convicted in 1951 and executed in 1953, marking one of the most controversial espionage cases in American history. The case has continued to spark discussions about the ethics of espionage and the complexities of the Cold War.

Continue Reading

Tôn Thất Thuyết

Vietnamese mandarin and military leader
Born
May 12th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
1913 112 years ago — 74 years old

Held significant roles during the reign of Emperor Tự Đức in Vietnam. Actively participated in the resistance against French colonial rule. Engaged in military campaigns aimed at defending Vietnamese sovereignty. Played a role in efforts to modernize Vietnam's military strategies and administration. Contributed to the uprisings that sought to restore traditional values and independence from foreign domination.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 4th

François Brandt

Dutch rower and engineer.
Born
1874 151 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1949 76 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed to the sport of rowing as a competitor and made significant advancements in engineering. Participated in various rowing competitions and was part of teams that achieved notable successes in national and international events. Worked on engineering projects that benefited the rowing community and enhanced the sport. His technical expertise and dedication to rowing left a lasting legacy in both fields.

Continue Reading

Hiren Bhattacharyya

Indian poet and author of acclaimed works
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 80 years old

An influential poet and author, contributed significantly to modern Assamese literature. Wrote poetry characterized by deep emotional resonance and often explored themes of nature, love, and social issues. Involved in the literary movement that aimed to elevate Assamese language and culture during the 20th century. Received several awards for literary excellence and inspired a new generation of writers.

Continue Reading

Gene Conley

Baseball and basketball player, 3x champion
Born
November 10th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

Played both Major League Baseball and National Basketball Association. In baseball, played for teams including the Boston Braves and Philadelphia Phillies, contributing to the 1957 World Series championship with the Braves. In basketball, played for the Boston Celtics, winning three NBA championships during 1959, 1960, and 1961.

Continue Reading

C. J. Henderson

Author and critic of speculative fiction
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old

An American author and critic, widely recognized for contributions to speculative fiction. Wrote numerous novels, short stories, and articles covering a variety of topics including horror, science fiction, and fantasy. Developed a significant body of work that included series such as the 'Jack Hagee' books and the 'Pulp Fiction' series. Also edited and contributed to various publications, providing insights into the genre and its authors.

Continue Reading

Zhuo Yanming

Chinese Buddhist monk and emperor
Died
July 4th, 945 1080 years ago — None years old

A prominent figure in China's history, served as both a Buddhist monk and an emperor during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Zhuo Yanming was instrumental in promoting Buddhism across the region. Held the title of emperor for a brief period and contributed to the religious landscape by integrating Buddhist teachings with governance. His tenure marked a significant intersection between religion and political authority in medieval China.

Continue Reading

Melville Fuller

U.S. Chief Justice and legal scholar
Born
February 11th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1910 115 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 8th Chief Justice of the United States from 1888 to 1910. Oversaw significant Supreme Court cases including Lochner v. New York and Plessy v. Ferguson. Contributed to the development of American law through influential decisions and opinions. Held various roles in legal associations and advocated for important legal reforms during tenure as Chief Justice.

Continue Reading