Kurt Tucholsky
Journalist and author of 'Deutschland, Deutschland über alles'
Born in 1890, this journalist and author contributed significantly to the Weimar Republic's intellectual landscape. As a member of the literary cabaret movement, worked to critique the political and social issues of the time through satire and journalism. Employed various pseudonyms including 'Peter Panter' and 'Theobald Tiger'. Exiled during the rise of the Nazi regime, continued to write from abroad, focusing on German society and politics. Died in 1935, leaving behind a legacy of sharp commentary and literary skill.
Authored 'Deutschland, Deutschland über alles'
Critiqued Weimar Republic politics in 'Weltbühne'
Faced persecution and exile under Nazi rule
Other People Born on January 9th
Gracie Fields
English actress and singer, comedy star
Born
January 9th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1979 46 years ago — 81 years old
Fields was an English actress and singer who gained prominence during the early to mid-20th century. She starred in a number of films, including 'Sing As We Go' and 'Looking on the Bright Side'. Additionally, Fields achieved success in theatrical performances and music, particularly in the genre of music hall. Her talent and charisma made her a beloved figure in entertainment.
Continue ReadingTiberius Hemsterhuis
Dutch philologist and critic
Born
January 9th, 1685 341 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1766 259 years ago — 81 years old
Born in the Netherlands, significant contributions were made to the fields of philology and criticism. Focused on the study of ancient Greek and Latin languages, work included the editing and translation of classical texts. A prominent academic figure in the 18th century, promoted the investigation of classical antiquity and stressed the importance of linguistic precision. Influenced contemporary thought through teaching and scholarly publications.
Continue ReadingJohn B. Watson
Psychologist and behaviorism founder
Born
January 9th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1958 67 years ago — 79 years old
An influential psychologist, contributed to the establishment of behaviorism, a theory which emphasized observable behaviors over internal mental states. Developed the Little Albert experiment, demonstrating the principles of classical conditioning by conditioning a child to fear a white rat. Established the psychological school of thought that became predominant in the early 20th century, emphasizing the importance of environment in shaping human behavior. Held a professorship at Johns Hopkins University, influencing future generations of psychologists through teaching and published works.
Continue ReadingJack Campbell
Professional ice hockey goaltender
Born
January 9th, 1992 34 years ago
Born in 1992, this professional ice hockey goaltender started his career in the NHL after being drafted in 2010. He played in multiple seasons with the Dallas Stars and gained recognition for his performance with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Campbell achieved success as a playoff goaltender, contributing significantly during the team's postseason runs. In 2021, he helped lead the Maple Leafs to achieve a strong regular season record. His skills as a netminder were showcased during crucial games, where he demonstrated composure and athleticism under pressure.
Continue ReadingAnthony Mamo
Maltese lawyer and 1st President of Malta
Born
January 9th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 1st, 2008 17 years ago — 99 years old
Served as the first President of Malta from 1974 to 1976 after Malta became a republic. Contributed to the legal framework of the country as a prominent lawyer. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Malta during the transition from British colonial rule to independent governance. Previously held positions in the Maltese Parliament and served as the Minister for Health and Social Welfare. Engaged in various legal and political reforms that shaped modern Maltese society.
Continue ReadingJennie Jerome
Socialite and mother of Winston Churchill
Born
January 9th, 1854 172 years ago
Died
1921 105 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Brooklyn, a prominent figure in British society and a socialite, played a significant role in high society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Married Lord Randolph Churchill, a notable British politician, and became the mother of Winston Churchill, who later served as British Prime Minister. Actively participated in political discussions and hosted many influential figures at her gatherings. Her connections and influence were vital in shaping her son's political career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 21st
Kaarlo Koskelo
Wrestler and businessman, Olympic medalist
Born
1888 138 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1953 72 years ago — 65 years old
A Finnish-American wrestler achieved notable success in amateur wrestling. Competed in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the lightweight category. Transitioned to a successful career in business after retiring from wrestling, contributing to the local community and promoting the sport.
Continue ReadingMichelle Botes
South African actress in television drama
Born
October 12th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2024 1 years ago — 62 years old
Botes began a career in acting in the 1980s and gained recognition for the role of Gladys in the long-running South African soap opera, 'Egoli: Place of Gold'. The portrayal contributed to the show's popularity and Botes became a household name in South Africa. In addition to her work on 'Egoli', she appeared in various stage productions and television series, showcasing her range as an actress. Botes has also participated in several local films and television projects, further establishing her presence in the South African entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingCatherine Vasa
Swedish princess and queen consort
Born
1539 487 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1610 415 years ago — 71 years old
Born into Swedish nobility, served as the wife of King Sigismund III Vasa of Poland. Played a significant role in the political landscape of the time through her connections and influence. Actively participated in court life and supported her husband's claim to the Swedish crown. Her marriage linked the Swedish and Polish thrones, impacting relations between the two kingdoms. After the death of Sigismund, her presence continued to influence the royal court.
Continue ReadingSitor Situmorang
Indonesian poet and author of works
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
Contributed significantly to Indonesian literature as a poet and author. Authored numerous poetry collections that reflect the struggles and beauty of Indonesian life. His works have been influential in shaping modern poetry in Indonesia, incorporating themes of nationalism and identity. Belonged to a generation of writers who engaged with social and political issues through literary forms.
Continue ReadingUdo Jürgens
Singer-songwriter and pianist known for 'Aber heute Abend'
Born
September 30th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1934 in Klagenfurt, this Austrian-Swiss singer-songwriter and pianist became a prominent figure in the pop music scene. Jürgens composed numerous songs, many of which achieved significant popularity in German-speaking countries. His career spanned several decades, during which he released more than 50 albums. He gained international fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1966 with the song 'Merci, Chérie,' representing Austria. Jürgens' music often featured themes of love and social issues, resonating with broad audiences. He continued to perform and produce music until his passing in 2014.
Continue ReadingLion Feuchtwanger
German author and playwright of notable works
Born
July 7th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1958 67 years ago — 74 years old
An influential German author and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early to mid-20th century. Worked in various genres, including novels and plays, often emphasizing themes of social justice and identity. Emigrated to the United States in the 1930s due to the rise of the Nazi regime. Many works were critical of totalitarianism, including the well-regarded novels 'The Oppermanns' and 'Jew Süss'. Maintained an active role in literary circles, producing works that resonated deeply during times of political upheaval. Continued to write and publish until death in 1958, leaving a legacy that influenced later generations of writers.
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