John Dobson
Astronomer and author of telescope design
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
A Chinese-American astronomer focused on promoting amateur astronomy and public outreach. Developed the Dobsonian telescope, which simplified telescope design and construction for amateur astronomers. Founded the San Francisco Sidewalk Astronomers, making stargazing accessible to the public, and encouraged the use of telescopes for recreational astronomy. Authored several books on the subject of astronomy, contributing to the education of many enthusiasts in the field.
Developed the Dobsonian telescope design
Founded the San Francisco Sidewalk Astronomers
Authored books on amateur astronomy
Other People Born on December 9th
Carl Wilhelm Scheele
Pharmaceutical chemist and discoverer
Born
December 9th, 1742 283 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1786 239 years ago — 43 years old
A pharmaceutical chemist born in Swedish Pomerania, significant in the study of chemistry during the 18th century. Discovered several chemical substances and was instrumental in the advancement of analytical chemistry. Scheele's work led to the identification of essential elements and compounds, including hydrogen, oxygen, and several acids. Worked extensively on the properties of various minerals and metals, contributing to the understanding of chemical reactions and their practical applications.
Continue ReadingNeil Innes
English singer-songwriter and member of The Rutles
Born
December 9th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2019 5 years ago — 75 years old
A singer-songwriter and musician, this individual was a key member of the comedy band The Rutles, a satirical tribute to The Beatles. He contributed significantly to the band's humor and music, which became popular through television and the film 'All You Need Is Cash'. Innes was also involved with Monty Python, providing musical contributions to several of their projects, including the television series and films. His work crossed the boundaries of music and comedy, blending both forms to create memorable performances.
Continue ReadingJames Jesus Angleton
CIA Chief of Counterintelligence
Born
December 9th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent figure in the CIA, played a crucial role in shaping U.S. intelligence strategies during the Cold War. Served as Chief of Counterintelligence from 1954 until 1974, overseeing operations and analyzing counterespionage threats. Developed a reputation for his involvement in various covert operations and for managing sensitive intelligence regarding the Soviet Union. Also contributed to the establishment of numerous intelligence assessment methodologies that influenced national security strategies. His tenure was marked by intense scrutiny of Soviet espionage activities, leading to significant internal investigations within the agency. His influence extended beyond his official role, impacting intelligence community practices and methodologies in the years following his retirement.
Continue ReadingBilly Bremner
Scottish footballer and Leeds United captain
Born
December 9th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1997 28 years ago — 54 years old
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Continue ReadingDouglas Fairbanks Jr.
Actor and producer; The Great Ziegfeld
Born
December 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 7th, 2000 25 years ago — 90 years old
An American actor and producer who emerged in the film industry during the early 20th century. Gained recognition for performances in silent films and transitioned successfully into talkies. Notable roles included titles in 'The Great Ziegfeld' and 'The Prisoner of Zenda'. Served in the United States Navy during World War II. Later worked as a producer, contributing to various theatrical productions and films.
Continue ReadingBob Hawke
Australian Prime Minister and union leader
Born
December 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent political figure, served as the 23rd Prime Minister of Australia from 1983 to 1991. Initially gained prominence as a trade union leader and played a significant role in union movement activities. Under leadership, Australia experienced economic reforms and a significant shift in industrial relations policy. Worked towards advancing educational policies and environmental reforms, influencing social and economic aspects of Australian society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 15th
Rudolph of France
King of France and Duke of Burgundy
Died
January 15th, 936 1089 years ago — None years old
Became King of the West Franks in 923 and ruled until 936. Prior to this, served as Duke of Burgundy. Leadership focused on the consolidation of royal authority in a fragmented kingdom. Worked to stabilize the region during a time marked by Viking invasions and internal strife. Participated in military campaigns against external threats, contributing to the defenses of the realm. Facilitated the transition of power during a critical period in the establishment of a more unified France.
Continue ReadingAnton Holban
Romanian author and educator, wrote 'Don Juan'
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1937 88 years ago — 35 years old
An influential Romanian author, theoretician, and educator contributed significantly to literature and pedagogy. Authored several notable works, including the novel 'Don Juan'. Engaged in literary criticism and theoretical discourse, promoting modernist ideas in Romanian literature. Served as an educator, shaping the curriculum and engaging in various academic pursuits. Worked in several educational institutions, emphasizing the importance of literature in education.
Continue ReadingFrancisco X. Alarcón
Poet and educator, 'Borderless'
Born
1954 71 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2016 9 years ago — 62 years old
This individual served as a poet and educator, contributing significantly to literature and cultural dialogues. As a Spanish-speaking performer in American poetry, the work focused on themes relating to identity, migration, and the experiences of the Latinx community. Teaching roles included positions at various educational institutions, imparting knowledge and inspiration to students. The poetry collection titled 'Borderless' emphasized the complexities of borders and cultural identity, showcasing a deep commitment to addressing social issues through art. Publications extended to multiple volumes of poetry, essays, and children's literature, enriching the literary landscape.
Continue ReadingLady Hamilton
Mistress of Horatio Nelson
Born
1761 264 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1815 210 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent figure in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, famous for the romantic liaison with Horatio Nelson, the British naval hero. Played a significant role in British society through various social and political connections. Engaged in various artistic endeavors and became a muse for artists during that period. Her life intertwined with historical events of her time, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars, providing insights into the personal lives of notable figures in British history.
Continue ReadingGalba
Roman emperor during the Year of the Four Emperors
Died
January 15th, 69 1956 years ago — None years old
Born in 3 BC, ascended to power in 68 AD after the fall of Nero. His reign lasted only seven months and was marked by attempts to restore order after civil unrest in Rome. Galba's leadership faced challenges from rival factions and discontent among the troops. He was ultimately overthrown and assassinated in January 69 AD, being the first emperor of the tumultuous Year of the Four Emperors, a year characterized by rapid changes in leadership culminating in the Flavian dynasty.
Continue ReadingYves Tanguy
Surrealist painter, 'Indefinite Divisibility'
Born
January 5th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1955 70 years ago — 55 years old
Born in France, developed an interest in painting at an early age. Relocated to the United States in 1939, where involvement in the Surrealist movement flourished. Tanguy's works feature abstract landscapes filled with unique organic forms and dreamlike imagery. His notable techniques involved intricate brushwork and a distinct color palette. Throughout his career, exhibited widely in both Europe and America. His painting 'Indefinite Divisibility' became emblematic of his artistic style, showcasing his contributions to Surrealism. Helped define the aesthetic of the movement and influenced future generations of artists until his death in 1955.
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