Mary Leakey
Archaeologist known for early hominids
An archaeologist and anthropologist, significant contributions to the discovery of early hominid fossils were made. Conducted extensive research at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, where the first fossilized footprints of early hominids were discovered. Developed techniques for studying human evolution and excavated several notable prehistoric sites. Authored numerous publications detailing findings in paleoanthropology, influencing the field's development.
Discovered footprints of early hominids in Laetoli
Excavated sites at Olduvai Gorge
Contributed to the understanding of human evolution
Other People Born on February 6th
Gerard K. O'Neill
American physicist and space advocate
Born
February 6th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1992 33 years ago — 65 years old
Contributions to physics included pioneering work in high-energy particle physics and the development of concepts for space colonization. Established the Space Studies Institute in 1977 to promote research in space technology and utilization. Published influential works including 'The High Frontier: Human Colonies in Space,' which proposed building space habitats and transforming the human experience beyond Earth. Served as a professor at Princeton University and had a significant impact on both theoretical and practical aspects of space exploration.
Continue ReadingKris Humphries
Basketball player for the New Jersey Nets
Born
February 6th, 1985 40 years ago
A basketball player participated in the NBA from 2004 to 2017. Played for several teams with notable time spent at the New Jersey Nets. Achieved an outstanding performance during the 2010-2011 season with the Nets, averaging 10.0 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Competed in various playoff series, contributing significantly to team efforts. Transitioned to other endeavors post-career.
Continue ReadingJoanna
Princess of Portugal
Born
February 6th, 1452 573 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1555 470 years ago — 103 years old
Born in 1452, a prominent nobility figure, she was the daughter of King Afonso V of Portugal. Married to King Manuel I of Portugal, contributed to the unification of Portugal through royal alliances. Her life was marked by the political reconfigurations of the Iberian Peninsula. Despite personal challenges, she played a significant role in the court and supported her husband in governance. Passed away in 1490, leaving a legacy tied to the Portuguese monarchy.
Continue ReadingTakashi Yanase
Poet and illustrator, creator of Anpanman
Born
February 6th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 94 years old
Born in 1919, a notable poet and illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature in Japan. Created the beloved character Anpanman, which became a staple in Japanese culture. Worked on various illustrations and poems that resonated with both children and adults. Engaged in artistic endeavors throughout life and emphasized themes of kindness and imagination.
Continue ReadingFrederic William Henry Myers
English poet and philologist
Born
February 6th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
1901 124 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1843, this individual was a prominent English poet and philologist who co-founded the Society for Psychical Research. The society aimed to promote the study of psychic phenomena, focusing on topics such as mediumship and spiritualism. Myers authored significant works in both poetry and the study of philology, contributing to literature and the understanding of language. His exploration of the human mind and spirit laid foundational work in areas related to psychical research, influencing subsequent studies in the field.
Continue ReadingEdward Lansdale
American general and CIA agent
Born
February 6th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 79 years old
Served in the United States Army during World War II, later became a prominent figure in the CIA. Played a significant role in counterinsurgency operations and psychological warfare during the Vietnam War. Contributed to the development of strategies that combined military and political efforts to combat communist influence in Southeast Asia. Authored several works on military strategy and counterinsurgency.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Norman Breslow
Statistician with significant academic contributions
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent statistician and academic contributed extensively to biostatistics and epidemiology. Worked on important statistical methods and model development, impacting various fields including public health. Served as a professor at the University of Washington, influencing many students and researchers in the statistical community. Published numerous research papers, advancing methodologies for analyzing complex data. Involved in various national statistical programs that shaped research practices.
Continue ReadingGyörgy Sándor
Hungarian pianist and composer
Born
September 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2005 20 years ago — 93 years old
Born in 1912, this pianist and composer became influential in the world of classical music. Studied under notable teachers and developed a style reflecting both traditional and modern influences. Performed extensively across Europe and North America, earning acclaim for interpretations of both classical and contemporary works. Contributed to the art of piano performance through dedication to teaching and performance. Composed several pieces that displayed a unique blend of styles and techniques, showcasing the evolution of piano music.
Continue ReadingJorge María Mejía
Argentinian cardinal and church leader
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old
A cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church, served as Prefect of the Vatican Library and played a key role in the modernization of the institution. Contributed to interfaith dialogue and emphasized the importance of cultural heritage within the Church. Participated in various synods and church councils, advocating for a pastoral approach to the faithful throughout his career. Focused on the theological reflections of Catholic teachings and the role of the Church in contemporary society.
Continue ReadingBéla Nagy Abodi
Hungarian painter and academic
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 94 years old
A Hungarian painter and academic specialized in the visual arts. Significant contributions included teaching at art institutions and exhibiting widely. The work reflected themes of Hungarian identity and contemporary art. Engaged in both traditional and modern techniques, the artist gained recognition for unique perspectives in visual storytelling.
Continue ReadingNorm Sloan
Basketball coach and player
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2003 22 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to college basketball as a head coach. Coached the University of Florida from 1970 to 1989, achieving notable success in the NCAA tournament. Later served as the athletic director at the same institution. Played at the University of North Carolina and had a subsequent professional career in the NBA.
Continue ReadingDemaryius Thomas
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl champion
Born
December 25th, 1987 37 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 33 years old
A wide receiver who played in the National Football League (NFL), contributed significantly to the success of the Denver Broncos. Recorded a standout career marked by impressive statistics, including over 9,000 receiving yards and 60 touchdowns. Achieved prominence during the 2015 season, playing a key role in the Broncos' Super Bowl 50 victory. Earned recognition for exceptional performances in crucial games and established himself as a reliable target for quarterbacks.
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