Maimonides
Spanish rabbi and philosopher
A prominent medieval rabbi and philosopher, this figure made significant contributions to Jewish law and philosophy. Born in Córdoba, Spain, in 1135, he later moved to Morocco and then Egypt. His major works include 'Mishneh Torah,' a comprehensive code of Jewish law, and 'Guide for the Perplexed,' which addresses the relationship between religion and philosophy. His writings sought to reconcile religious tradition with rational thought.
Authored 'Mishneh Torah' as a legal codex
Wrote 'Guide for the Perplexed', merging faith and reason
Other People Born on March 30th
Frankie Laine
Singer-songwriter and actor; 'High Noon'
Born
March 30th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2007 19 years ago — 93 years old
An American singer-songwriter and actor gained fame during the mid-20th century. Laine recorded numerous hit songs across various genres, prominently featuring country and pop styles. 'High Noon', a theme song for the classic Western film of the same name, became one of his signature pieces. Laine's musical career included successful collaborations and chart-topping records, marking him as a significant figure in the music industry. He also made numerous appearances on television, contributing to his popularity in entertainment during his era.
Continue ReadingDoug Wickenheiser
Ice Hockey Player and first overall pick
Born
March 30th, 1961 64 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1999 27 years ago — 37 years old
Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the St. Louis Blues, Montreal Canadiens, and New York Rangers. Wickenheiser was selected first overall in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues. His career included stints in various teams in the NHL as well as in minor leagues like the American Hockey League (AHL). After retirement, he contributed to the sport through coaching and player development. Wickenheiser faced health challenges later in life, including a battle with cancer, which led to his death in 1999.
Continue ReadingAnastasia Potapova
Russian tennis player with WTA titles
Born
March 30th, 2001 24 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis, gaining recognition on the Women's Tennis Association circuit. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of 64 in the world. Participated in Grand Slam tournaments, including the Australian Open and French Open. In 2016, won the Wimbledon girl's singles championship, marking an important milestone in professional career.
Continue ReadingZay Jones
American football wide receiver
Born
March 30th, 1995 30 years ago
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL), primarily for the Buffalo Bills and later for the Las Vegas Raiders. Achieved a career high of 102 receptions in a single season. Notable for setting the NCAA record for receptions in a season while playing at East Carolina University, contributing to a successful college career.
Continue ReadingShi Jingtang
Emperor of Later Jin dynasty
Born
March 30th, 892 1133 years ago
Died
July 28th, 942 1083 years ago — 50 years old
Ruled as the emperor of the Later Jin dynasty from 936 until his death in 942. Ascended the throne after overthrowing the Later Tang dynasty, which marked a significant transition in Chinese history during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. His reign is characterized by military maneuvers and consolidation of power, as well as struggles against rival states. Shi established the dynasty as a key player in regional politics, although it faced numerous challenges from other factions.
Continue ReadingCarl Lutz
Swiss vice-consul and humanitarian efforts
Born
March 30th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1975 50 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the Swiss vice-consul in Hungary during World War II. Facilitated the issuance of protective letters, which helped save thousands of Jews from deportation and persecution. Worked tirelessly to negotiate and provide asylum for those fleeing the Nazi regime. His efforts contributed to the survival of over 62,000 Jews, making a significant impact during a time of immense crisis. Continued advocacy for humanitarian causes after the war and focused on raising awareness about the Holocaust.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 13th
Christian Fürchtegott Gellert
German poet and academic, notable fables
Born
July 4th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1769 256 years ago — 54 years old
A significant figure in German literature, contributed to the development of the fable genre. Served as a professor of philosophy at the University of Leipzig. Gellert's works often included moral lessons and reflected Enlightenment ideals. The collection of fables, alongside poetry, showcased the language's beauty and simplicity. Authored essays and plays, which affirmed his standing in literary circles of the time.
Continue ReadingReggie Duff
Australian cricketer; Test match player
Born
August 17th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1911 114 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1878, a cricketer represented Australia at the international level. Played in the early years of Test cricket, participating in significant series that helped establish the sport in Australia. Made notable contributions as an opening batsman and was recognized for his aggressive playing style. Competed in several Ashes series, contributing to the team's efforts against England.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Volkenrath
Concentration camp supervisor
Born
September 5th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1945 80 years ago — 26 years old
Supervised prisoners at the women's concentration camp in Ravensbrück during World War II. Held the position of overseer and was involved in the administration of the camp. Volkenrath's role included the enforcement of brutal conditions for inmates. After the war, she faced trial for war crimes.
Continue ReadingLew Grade
Film producer and television executive
Born
December 25th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1998 27 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Ukraine, Grade became a significant figure in the British television landscape. His career included founding the production company Associated Television (ATV), which produced a range of popular programs. He played a pivotal role in bringing many iconic series to the screen, including 'The Avengers' and 'Thunderbirds'. As an influential producer, he also ventured into film production, contributing to movies like 'The Italian Job'. His contributions to the industry earned him numerous accolades and recognition.
Continue ReadingWassily Kandinsky
Abstract painter and art theorist
Born
December 16th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1944 81 years ago — 77 years old
An influential painter and theorist, this individual played a key role in the development of abstract art. Initially trained as a lawyer, the pivot to art occurred while residing in Munich. Early works reflected Impressionist and Post-Impressionist influences, but later compositions exhibited a segment of expressive colors and shapes independent of visual references. Authored several important texts, exploring the relationship between color and sound, and the meaning of abstraction. The individual's contributions were pivotal in shaping modern art movements such as Expressionism and Abstract Expressionism.
Continue ReadingEgas Moniz
Portuguese neurologist, Nobel laureate
Born
November 29th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1955 70 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent Portuguese physician and neurologist, this individual significantly advanced the field of neuropsychology. Contributions included the development of cerebral angiography and the introduction of lobotomy as a treatment for severe mental disorders. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1949 for pioneering these techniques. The work focused on understanding the brain's functions and exploring innovative treatment methods for psychiatric conditions.
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