Leopold I of Belgium

Belgian King and constitutional monarch

Leopold I of Belgium - Belgian King and constitutional monarch
Born

December 16th, 1790
234 years ago

Died

December 10th, 1865
159 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Belgium

Links & References

Reigned as the first King of the Belgians from 1831 until death in 1865. Ascended the throne following Belgium's independence from the Netherlands. Established a constitutional monarchy, providing stability to the nation during its formative years. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to gain international recognition for Belgium's sovereignty and worked to modernize the country. Oversaw the establishment of various institutions and infrastructures, promoting trade and industry.

First King of the Belgians

Constitutional monarchy established

Other People Born on December 16th

Frederick Rotimi Williams

Nigerian lawyer and politician
Born
December 16th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent Nigerian lawyer and politician, he played a significant role in the legal framework and political landscape of Nigeria. Williams served as a legal advisor and advocate for various political movements and was deeply involved in Nigeria's transition to democracy. He contributed to the establishment of numerous legal institutions and reforms in the country, shaping the modern legal system. As a senior advocate of Nigeria, his expertise and influence in law garnered respect both nationally and internationally. Williams was also a key figure in several political parties and movements, working towards the betterment of the nation's governance.

Continue Reading

Stephan James

Canadian actor from 'If Beale Street Could Talk'
Born
December 16th, 1993 31 years ago

Born in Canada, a prominent actor emerged in the entertainment industry, achieving recognition through various compelling performances. Notable roles include the character Fonny in 'If Beale Street Could Talk', which earned critical acclaim. Additionally, starred in the television series 'Homecoming', showcasing versatility and depth in character portrayal. A dedicated performer, engaged in several projects that highlight significant cultural themes.

Continue Reading

Bill Young

American politician and sergeant
Born
December 16th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2013 11 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Florida's 10th congressional district from 1971 to 2014. Participated in various committees including Appropriations and Transportation and Infrastructure. Prior military service in the United States Army during the Korean War.

Continue Reading

Viktor Bunyakovsky

Mathematician and academic figure
Born
December 16th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1889 135 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions included significant advancements in the field of mathematical analysis. Developed the Bunyakovsky inequality, which plays a crucial role in various branches of mathematics. Held a position at the University of Saint Petersburg. Published works that explored number theory and inequalities, influencing future research and education in mathematics.

Continue Reading

Remedios Varo

Surrealist painter & anarchist
Born
December 16th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1963 61 years ago — 54 years old

Born in Spain, a prominent surrealist painter and anarchist painted magical and fantastical imagery that often blended elements of mysticism and science. Emigrating to Mexico during the Spanish Civil War, became part of the vibrant art community in Mexico City, collaborating with fellow surrealists and contributing to the development of surrealism in Latin America. Varo's work explored themes of transformation, feminism, and the subconscious, gaining attention for unique visual language. Major exhibitions of works took place posthumously, solidifying significance within the art world.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Carter

English poet and translator
Born
December 16th, 1717 307 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1806 219 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1717, contributions included poetry and translations of works from Greek and Latin to English. Published original poems that reflected philosophical themes and cultural matters. Became associated with prominent intellectual circles of the time and engaged in the study of classical literature. Notable for her translation of Epictetus's Enchiridion. Also recognized for her friendships with notable figures of her time, serving as a correspondent and supporter of the intellectual community.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 10th

Ashok Kumar

Indian film actor and pioneer of cinema
Born
October 13th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2001 23 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent figure in Indian cinema, this actor initiated a successful career in the film industry during the 1930s. Starting with the movie 'Jeevan Naiya' in 1936, performances spanned several decades, contributing significantly to the development of Bollywood. Notable for versatile roles in both comic and serious films, achieved success in films such as 'Kismet', 'Mahal', and 'Chhoti Si Baat'. Received multiple accolades including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, which recognized contributions to Indian cinema. Continued to act in films until the early 1990s, making lasting contributions to the industry.

Continue Reading

Jacob Frank

Polish religious leader and founder of Frankism
Born
1726 299 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1791 233 years ago — 65 years old

Established Frankism, a religious movement that diverged from Judaism and incorporated elements of Christianity and other beliefs. Frank led a group of followers who viewed him as the Messiah and advocated for radical beliefs and practices. The movement attracted attention and controversy, leading to confrontations with Jewish authorities. After facing persecution, relocated to various regions in Europe, continuing to spread the teachings of Frankism until death.

Continue Reading

Greta Kempton

Austrian-American painter with notable works
Born
March 22nd, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1991 33 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Austria, became an American painter and portrait artist. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. Emigrated to the United States in 1926, where she gained recognition for her portraits. Worked in various mediums, including oils and watercolors. Her subjects included notable figures in politics and the arts. Famed for her ability to capture likeness and personality in her work. Exhibited at prestigious venues, contributing to the American art scene.

Continue Reading

Tarquinio Merula

Italian composer and organist
Born
1594 431 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1665 359 years ago — 71 years old

An Italian organist, violinist, and composer contributed significantly to the early Baroque music period. Merula served in various churches, notably in his role as the organist at the church of San Bartolomeo in Cremona. He composed a wide range of music including sacred works, instrumental sonatas, and vocal music, showcasing innovative use of harmony and instrumental combinations. His collections include 'Cento Concerti Ecclesiastici' and 'Canzoni et Sonate,' which reflect the stylistic developments of the time. Merula's music influenced subsequent generations of composers, and his works are still studied and performed today.

Continue Reading

Jim Hall

Guitarist and composer of jazz music
Born
December 4th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2013 11 years ago — 83 years old

An influential guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre, particularly known for innovative techniques and voice-like expressions on the guitar. Rose to prominence in the 1960s and collaborated with various renowned artists, shaping modern jazz guitar playing. His work includes significant albums and performances that showcased both improvisational skill and compositional excellence. Hall also taught and influenced numerous musicians, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of jazz music.

Continue Reading

Joseph Carruthers

Australian politician, Premier of NSW
Born
December 21st, 1857 167 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1932 92 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 16th Premier of New South Wales from 1904 to 1907. Contributed to the development of the state's infrastructure and economic policies. Participated actively in the establishment of a public railway system, promoting transport and trade. Advocated for educational reforms. Held membership in various parliamentary committees, influencing legislative progress.

Continue Reading