Louis Braille

Inventor of the Braille writing system

Louis Braille - Inventor of the Braille writing system
Born

January 4th, 1809
216 years ago

Died

January 6th, 1852
173 years ago — 43 years old

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

France

Links & References

An educator developed a tactile writing system that enables visually impaired individuals to read and write. At the age of 15, created a simplified version of a code for reading and writing using raised dots based on the military night writing system. Established a school for the blind in France, dedicated to teaching this innovative method, which significantly improved literacy among visually impaired people.

Invented the Braille writing system

Founded the first school for the blind in France

Other People Born on January 4th

Victor Wembanyama

French basketball player, NBA rookie
Born
January 4th, 2004 21 years ago

A professional basketball player, played for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. Achieved international recognition during performance in the 2021 FIBA U19 World Cup, helping France secure a silver medal. Established a reputation for exceptional height and skill, being touted as a generational talent in basketball.

Continue Reading

Everett Dirksen

American politician & Senate Minority Leader
Born
January 4th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1969 55 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Illinois from 1959 to 1969. Played a significant role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Served as Senate Minority Leader from 1959 until 1969, shaping key legislative strategies during this period. Promoted a conservative agenda and was instrumental in fostering bipartisan cooperation on major national issues.

Continue Reading

John A. McCone

6th Director of Central Intelligence
Born
January 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 6th Director of Central Intelligence from 1961 to 1965 during a critical period of the Cold War. Prior to this role, held positions such as chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and president of the Bechtel Corporation. Contributed to significant intelligence operations and policy developments affecting national security. Played a notable role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, overseeing intelligence assessments that shaped U.S. responses to the Soviet Union's actions.

Continue Reading

Amadeus VI

Count of Savoy
Born
January 4th, 1334 691 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1383 642 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1334, Amadeus VI served as Count of Savoy, leading the territory through various military and diplomatic engagements. His rule extended across regions including modern-day Switzerland and northern Italy. He expanded his family's influence in the region and actively participated in military campaigns during the Hundred Years' War. The count cultivated alliances with other noble houses, contributing to the stability and expansion of the Savoy region. His efforts in governance and military strategy solidified the Savoy dynasty's control.

Continue Reading

Zehava Gal-On

Israeli politician, Meretz leader
Born
January 4th, 1956 69 years ago

A prominent Israeli politician, played a significant role in the Knesset, representing the Meretz party. Focused on social justice, women’s rights, and peace initiatives throughout a lengthy political career. Served as the party leader and was involved in various legislative efforts aimed at civil liberties and human rights. Was vocal about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and advocated for a two-state solution. Contributed to discussions on issues including minority rights and democratic processes within Israel.

Continue Reading

A. E. Coppard

English poet and short story writer
Born
January 4th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1957 68 years ago — 79 years old

Coppard was an English poet and short story writer. His literary career included contributions to various periodicals and the production of several collections of poetry and short stories. Coppard's work often explored themes of nature and human experience with a unique style. He published notable works that gained attention during his lifetime, receiving critical acclaim for his contributions to literature. His narratives often conveyed rich imagery and vivid detail, showcasing his command of language. In 1930, he received the Hawthornden Prize for his poetry, highlighting recognition within literary circles.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 6th

Basil John Mason

Meteorologist and academic author
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed extensively to the field of meteorology, particularly in atmospheric dynamics and weather prediction. Served as a professor at the University of Reading, where research on weather patterns and statistical methods advanced the understanding of meteorological phenomena. Published numerous papers and books, including texts on computer models for weather forecasting. Worked with various meteorological organizations, influencing both academic and practical applications of weather science.

Continue Reading

David Alfaro Siqueiros

Mexican muralist and political artist
Born
December 29th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1974 51 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Mexican painter, engaged in the socialist movement and became one of the most important figures in the Mexican muralist movement. His works reflect themes of social justice and revolutionary ideals, often incorporating complex techniques and vibrant colors. Siqueiros participated in the Mexican Revolution and used his art to promote political messages. His notable works include large-scale murals in public places, which combined historical narratives with modern artistic techniques. His engagements in various political movements and his artistic vision contributed significantly to the cultural landscape in Mexico during the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Arthur Jackson

American lieutenant and target shooter
Born
May 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2015 10 years ago — 96 years old

Served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Armed Forces and excelled in target shooting competitions. Achieved notable success in various shooting events, contributing to the military's marksmanship programs. Worked extensively in training and mentoring upcoming shooters in the discipline. Held various leadership positions within the shooting community, promoting the sport and enhancing competitive standards.

Continue Reading

Abo of Tiflis

Iraqi Martyr and Saint
Died
January 6th, 786 1239 years ago — None years old

Abo of Tiflis was an Iraqi martyr and saint born in 756. He is associated with the early spread of Christianity in the region. His life is marked by his steadfast faith, leading to his martyrdom in 786. The historical context includes the religious conflicts of the time, which shaped the experiences of early Christian figures in the Middle East. The legacy includes veneration among saints within the Christian tradition.

Continue Reading

Octavio Lepage

Venezuelan politician and president
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the President of Venezuela from 1991 to 1993. Focused on economic reforms and governance during a politically tumultuous period in the country. October 1992 saw an attempted coup against his administration, leading to significant political challenges. Resigned from the presidency after a series of protests and political instability. Contributed to discussions about democracy and political structures in Venezuela following his term.

Continue Reading

Pavel Cherenkov

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner in physics
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1990 35 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in the study of particle radiation. Developed the Cherenkov radiation phenomenon, which occurs when charged particles travel faster than the speed of light in a medium. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1958 for the discovery of this effect, alongside other scientists. Published numerous scientific works and was involved in academic research throughout a distinguished career.

Continue Reading