Les Haylen
Journalist and Australian politician
Started a career in journalism before entering politics. Served as a member of the Australian House of Representatives representing the Division of Parkes from 1943 to 1949. Worked with various media outlets and contributed to political discourse through writing and public speaking. Engaged in significant political reforms and advocacy during tenure.
Served in the Australian House of Representatives
Contributed to political journalism
Other People Born on September 23rd
Kublai Khan
Mongol emperor and conqueror
Born
September 23rd, 1215 810 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1294 731 years ago — 78 years old
Founded the Yuan dynasty in China, ruling from 1271 to 1294. Expanded the Mongol Empire to include significant parts of East Asia. Established Beijing as the capital and promoted trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. Implemented administrative reforms and supported the arts and sciences.
Continue ReadingHilly Kristal
Founder of legendary punk club CBGB
Born
September 23rd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 28th, 2007 18 years ago — 75 years old
A businessman established a music venue in New York City that became a cornerstone of the punk rock and new wave movements. Opened CBGB in 1973, creating a space for emerging bands to perform. The club hosted iconic groups including The Ramones, Blondie, and Talking Heads, shaping the city's music scene. Closed in 2006 due to landlord disputes, the club’s legacy continued to influence artists and musicians. Passed away in 2007.
Continue ReadingEmperor Kōkaku of Japan
Japanese Emperor during the Edo period
Born
September 23rd, 1771 254 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1840 185 years ago — 69 years old
Reigned from 1779 to 1817, emphasized cultural development and administration reform. Guided the nation through a period characterized by stability and relative peace, known as the Edo period. Oversaw significant changes in Japanese society, including art, literature, and the economy. Advocated for the growth of traditional Japanese arts and encouraged interaction with Western cultures, leading to gradual modernization. After abdication, continued to influence the imperial court.
Continue ReadingPrincess Marie Elisabeth of Saxe-Meiningen
German Princess and Royal Figure
Born
September 23rd, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1853, a member of the Saxe-Meiningen dynasty. Engaged in charitable work, focusing on the welfare of children and women. Contributed to various social causes throughout life, particularly emphasizing education and healthcare improvements. Involved in royal events and represented the dynasty in public affairs. Known for participation in cultural and social initiatives.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Paulus
German general, commander at Stalingrad
Born
September 23rd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1957 68 years ago — 66 years old
A German general during World War II, served in the Wehrmacht. Commanded the 6th Army during the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the conflict's turning points. Led troops during significant campaigns in North Africa, participating in operations aimed at securing oil supplies. Captured by Soviet forces in February 1943 at Stalingrad, Paulus became a prisoner of war until the end of the war.
Continue ReadingPrincess Juliane of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld
Noblewoman, Queen of the Belgians
Born
September 23rd, 1781 244 years ago
Died
1860 165 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1781, she belonged to the Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld family and later became the Queen of Belgium as the consort of King Leopold I. The marriage took place in 1816, and she played a significant role in the early years of the Belgian monarchy after independence was achieved. Her efforts contributed to establishing the royal family's presence in Belgian society. The couple had several children, many of whom would marry into other European royal families, further solidifying alliances. After her husband's death in 1865, she took on various charitable activities and remained a respected figure in Belgium.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 12th
Joe Sample
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
February 1st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the genre of jazz, particularly in the fusion subgenre. Played with the Grammy Award-winning group The Jazz Crusaders, which became well-known for their innovative sound and style. Sample recorded numerous solo albums and collaborated with various artists across different genres, enriching the music scene with a blend of jazz, blues, and gospel influences. His compositions and performances have left a lasting legacy in the world of jazz music.
Continue ReadingFederico Moreno Torroba
Spanish composer and conductor
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1982 43 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent Spanish composer and conductor, contributions included the creation of numerous zarzuelas, which are traditional Spanish operettas. Significant works include 'Luisa Fernanda' and 'Maravilla.' Moreno Torroba also composed symphonic and chamber music, achieving recognition for his efforts in establishing a modern approach to Spanish music. Conducted various symphony orchestras and worked with renowned classical performers throughout his career. Received honors for his dedication to Spanish cultural heritage and music.
Continue ReadingJudith Merril
Science fiction writer and editor
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1997 28 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in science fiction, played a crucial role in shaping the genre through writing and editing. Contributed to anthologies and magazines, including The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. Engaged in political activism and supported various social causes. Co-founded the feminist speculative fiction organization, the Speculative Literature Foundation.
Continue ReadingʻAkilisi Pōhiva
Tongan Prime Minister and activist
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2019 6 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Tonga from 2014 until his death in 2019. Elected to the Tongan Parliament in 1999, played a fundamental role in advocating for democratic reforms and transparency in government. Worked extensively for the rights of the Tongan people and promoted educational initiatives throughout the nation. His leadership was marked by efforts to enhance the political landscape of Tonga and push for greater accountability among public officials.
Continue ReadingBruce Matthews
American football player and coach
Born
August 8th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1991 34 years ago — 30 years old
Played as an offensive lineman in the National Football League (NFL) for 19 seasons, primarily with the Houston Oilers. Selected to the Pro Bowl 14 times, he was part of the All-Pro team on multiple occasions and recorded over 250 career games. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and served as an assistant coach with several teams, including the Tennessee Titans. In 2007, inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingJon Finlayson
Australian Actor and Screenwriter
Born
March 23rd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1938, this Australian actor and screenwriter gained recognition for contributions to film and television. Career highlights include significant roles in productions such as 'The Spy Who Came In from the Cold' and 'The Mummy'. Known for versatility, worked in both dramatic and comedic genres, contributing to a variety of screenplays and performances. Active in the industry for decades, the focus remained on creating engaging narratives and memorable characters.
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