Joseph B. Keenan
American jurist and politician
Born in 1888, a prominent American jurist and politician served as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of California. Played a significant role in New Deal policies during the 1930s while also engaging in various political initiatives. Worked as a special assistant to the Attorney General of the United States, focusing on issues related to civil rights and justice. Contributed to the legal landscape of California and shaped judicial practices within the state.
Served as U.S. District Judge in California
Contributed to New Deal policies
Worked as special assistant to the Attorney General
Other People Born on January 11th
Albert Hofmann
Swiss chemist who discovered LSD
Born
January 11th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
April 29th, 2008 17 years ago — 102 years old
A prominent Swiss chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of pharmaceuticals. Synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in 1938 while working at Sandoz Laboratories. First ingested LSD personally in 1943, leading to the discovery of its psychedelic effects. Conducted further research on hallucinogenic substances and their potential therapeutic uses. Authored several books on psychedelic substances and their implications in psychology and culture.
Continue ReadingCai Yuanpei
Chinese philosopher and academic leader
Born
January 11th, 1868 158 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1940 85 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent philosopher, academic administrator, and politician, this individual played a significant role in modern Chinese education. As the president of Peking University, efforts focused on promoting academic freedom and reforming the university system in China. Engaging with Western educational practices, contributions included advocating for new cultural and educational movements in early 20th-century China, which facilitated the exchange of ideas between Eastern and Western philosophies. Additionally, involvement in political movements reflected a commitment to the modernization of Chinese society.
Continue ReadingCarroll Shelby
Race car driver and automotive designer
Born
January 11th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
Achieved prominence as a race car driver and automotive designer. Competed in various race events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Developed the Shelby Cobra sports car, which became an iconic symbol of American automotive performance. Established Shelby American, a company that manufactures high-performance cars and parts. Collaborated with Ford to create the Mustang Cobra and the GT350, contributing significantly to the automotive industry.
Continue ReadingTheodoros Pangalos
Greek politician and military leader
Born
January 11th, 1878 148 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1952 73 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a prominent general and politician in Greece during the early 20th century. Held the position of President of Greece from 1926 to 1929. Participated in military campaigns and was involved in the political landscape during a tumultuous period in Greek history. Took part in the Greco-Turkish War and held various governmental positions, shaping the political environment of the era.
Continue ReadingWajima Hiroshi
Sumo wrestler, 54th Yokozuna
Born
January 11th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 70 years old
Acclaimed as the 54th Yokozuna, celebrated in the world of sumo wrestling. Achieved the prestigious title following a successful career marked by remarkable performance and technique. Competed for the Dewanoumi stable and demonstrated exceptional skill in the ring over multiple tournaments.
Continue ReadingGrant Tinker
Television producer, co-founder of MTM Enterprises
Born
January 11th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 91 years old
Co-founded MTM Enterprises, a television production company recognized for creating successful television series. Played an instrumental role in developing popular shows such as 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and 'The Bob Newhart Show'. Tinker served as chairman and CEO of NBC from 1973 to 1978, a period marked by significant ratings growth and the introduction of innovative programming. After leaving NBC, continued to produce television content, contributing to the landscape of American television.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 8th
Ernst Krenkel
Geographer and Arctic Explorer
Born
December 24th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1971 54 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1903, contributions to Arctic exploration included leadership in significant expeditions. Explored Siberia and the Arctic Ocean, conducting scientific research and mapping uncharted territories. Participated in Soviet scientific missions and became a prominent figure in polar exploration. Development of geographical education and promotion of scientific understanding in exploration launched overseas expeditions and contributed to geopolitical knowledge.
Continue ReadingJohn Pym
English politician and parliamentarian
Born
1583 443 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1643 382 years ago — 60 years old
A notable English politician during the early 17th century, played a key role in the English Civil War. Actively involved in the Long Parliament, advocated for the rights of Parliament against King Charles I. Instrumental in promoting the cause of Parliamentarians and opposing royal authority. Advocated for legal reforms and supported the establishment of a commonwealth government after the king's defeat. Pym's efforts helped shape the political landscape of England during a turbulent period in history.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Charlotte
Princess Palatine of Germany
Born
May 27th, 1652 373 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1722 303 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1652, a princess of the Palatinate, she became the Duchesse of Orléans through marriage. She served as a key figure at the French court, known for her correspondence with prominent intellectuals and politicians of the time. Elizabeth Charlotte's letters provide significant insights into the culture and politics of 17th-century France. Her life unfolded during the reign of Louis XIV, where she navigated the complexities of court life and familial duties.
Continue ReadingMaximilian von Spee
Admiral during World War I
Born
June 22nd, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1914 111 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1861, served as an admiral in the Imperial German Navy. Commanded the East Asia Squadron, engaging in naval battles during World War I. Led the fleet that participated in the Battle of Coronel, which resulted in a significant naval victory for Germany. Engaged in the Battle of the Falkland Islands, where the squadron faced defeat. Instrumental in establishing German naval presence in the Pacific region.
Continue ReadingMarty Robbins
Country singer-songwriter and race car driver
Born
September 26th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1982 43 years ago — 57 years old
An American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor, gained prominence in the country music genre during the mid-20th century. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'El Paso' and 'Big Iron', which established a legacy in the music industry. Additionally, engaged in auto racing, participating in NASCAR events while also pursuing a career in music. Acted in several films, including 'Gunfight at OK Corral'. Experienced a successful career that spanned several decades, concluding with a notable contribution to both music and racing.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shawn
Journalist and editor of The New Yorker
Born
August 31st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1992 33 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent journalist and editor, this individual led The New Yorker for over 35 years, shaping its editorial voice and content. Under this leadership, the magazine grew in prominence as a platform for literary and journalistic excellence. This individual prioritized serious journalism and showcased the works of numerous writers and artists, establishing a space for critical and cultural commentary. Renowned for commitment to editorial integrity, the editorial policies emphasized in-depth reporting and narrative storytelling.
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