Józef Glemp
Polish Cardinal and Church leader
Served as the Primate of Poland from 1981 to 2009. Played a significant role during the transition of Poland from communism to democracy. Participated in the 1980 World Synod of Bishops and was influential in Polish Catholicism. Engaged in ecumenical dialogue with other Christian denominations and took part in the establishment of the Polish bishops' conference.
Primate of Poland from 1981 to 2009
Member of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith
Contributed to ecumenical efforts in Poland
Other People Born on December 18th
Travon Walker
American football player, Georgia Bulldogs
Born
December 18th, 2000 25 years ago
Played college football at the University of Georgia, contributing to a championship-winning season in 2021. Participated in the College Football Playoff National Championship and was recognized for exceptional defensive skills. Selected as the first overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, marking a significant achievement in a professional football career.
Continue ReadingCharles Wesley
English missionary and hymn writer
Born
December 18th, 1707 318 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1788 237 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in the Methodist movement, contributed extensively to the development of Christian hymnody. Served as a missionary, spreading the teachings of Methodism while promoting social reform. Authored numerous hymns and poems that emphasized spirituality and devotion. Collaborated closely with his brother, John Wesley, to establish the Methodist Church, which emphasized personal piety and direct experience of God.
Continue ReadingCharles Griffin
American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.
Continue ReadingFrancis Burton Harrison
American politician and general
Born
December 18th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1957 68 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1873, served as the sixth Governor-General of the Philippines from 1913 to 1921. Positioned during a period of American colonial rule, focused on promoting self-governance and civil rights for Filipinos. Earned a reputation for advocating for Filipino representation in government and enhancing educational opportunities. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Philippine legislature.
Continue ReadingJalen Johnson
Basketball player, Atlanta Hawks forward
Born
December 18th, 2001 24 years ago
Professional basketball player played for the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA. Developed skills during college basketball at Duke University, where contributed significantly to the team's performance. Entered the NBA Draft in 2021, showcasing abilities as a versatile forward. Participated in league games as part of the Hawks' roster, building reputation as an emerging talent.
Continue ReadingDaniel Cleary
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 18th, 1978 47 years ago
Born in 1978, a Canadian professional ice hockey player played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams, prominently on the Detroit Red Wings. Originating from Kingston, Ontario, played junior hockey with the Belleville Bulls. Drafted in 1997, played for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Edmonton Oilers before joining the Red Wings in 2005. Contributed significantly to the team's success, helping secure the Stanley Cup in 2008.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 23rd
Florent of Hainaut
Prince of Achaea
Died
January 23rd, 1297 729 years ago — None years old
Born around 1255, this individual served as the Prince of Achaea from 1289 until death in 1297. A member of the House of Avesnes, he ruled over parts of Greece during the Frankish period. His reign was characterized by political struggles and alliances as well as military engagements involving both local nobility and external powers. In 1289, succeeded his cousin, establishing strong ties with other noble houses. His leadership faced challenges from rival factions and external threats, but he maintained authority until his death.
Continue ReadingMax Nordau
Austrian physician and author of 'Degeneration'
Born
July 29th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1923 103 years ago — 73 years old
Austrian physician and author contributed significantly to discussions on social and psychological issues of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Best remembered for the book 'Degeneration', which critiqued contemporary society, art, and culture, exploring the impact of modernity on mental health. Nordau also engaged with Zionist ideas and was active in the early Zionist movement, advocating for Jewish nationalism and the establishment of a Jewish homeland. His writings merged his interests in medicine and philosophy, influencing debates around social issues and identity during a transformative period in Europe.
Continue ReadingNikolai Ogarkov
Russian field marshal and military strategist
Born
October 30th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1994 32 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Soviet Armed Forces, commanding various military units throughout a distinguished career. Played a crucial role in the development of military strategy during the late Cold War period. Held the position of Chief of the General Staff of the Soviet Armed Forces from 1977 to 1984, overseeing numerous military operations and reforms. Contributed to advancements in military thought and technology, particularly in the realm of nuclear strategy and conventional warfare.
Continue ReadingRyszard Kapuściński
Polish journalist and author of 'Imperium'
Born
March 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2007 19 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in journalism and literature, focused on foreign affairs and culture. Worked for the Polish Press Agency and reported extensively from Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Authored several books offering deep insights into the political landscape of the regions covered. 'Imperium' stands as a prominent work, chronicling the collapse of the Soviet Union and the dynamics of post-Soviet states. The writing style combined reportage with literary techniques, blending fiction and non-fiction elements.
Continue ReadingJames Stewart
Scottish politician and 1st Earl of Moray
Born
1531 495 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1570 456 years ago — 39 years old
A prominent Scottish politician, served as the Regent of Scotland during the minority of Mary, Queen of Scots. Focused on political stability in a turbulent period marked by religious conflicts and power struggles. Held the title of 1st Earl of Moray after being granted the earldom in 1567. Played a key role in the Protestant Reformation in Scotland, supporting the Protestant cause against Catholic rivals. Organized resistance against French influence in Scotland and supported the establishment of Protestant governance.
Continue ReadingProsper Ego
Dutch activist and Oud-Strijders Legioen founder
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2015 11 years ago — 88 years old
An activist played a significant role in advocating for the rights and recognition of veterans in the Netherlands. Founded the Oud-Strijders Legioen, an organization that aimed to support former soldiers and their families. Worked to promote awareness of issues faced by veterans and lobbied for better policies regarding their care and support. Also contributed to broader discussions on peace and veterans' affairs within Dutch society until passing away in 2015.
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