Matthew Shepard

Hate crime victim and LGBTQ+ symbol

Matthew Shepard - Hate crime victim and LGBTQ+ symbol
Born

December 1st, 1976
48 years ago

Died

October 12th, 1998
27 years ago — 21 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1976, this individual became a symbol of the plight against hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ community after suffering a brutal attack in 1998. The incident garnered national attention and highlighted issues of homophobia and violence. Following the tragic death, advocacy efforts surged, leading to increased awareness and legislative changes regarding hate crime laws in the United States.

Victim of a hate crime in Wyoming

Inspiration for the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act

Other People Born on December 1st

Pat Spillane

Irish footballer and sportscaster
Born
December 1st, 1955 69 years ago

Played Gaelic football for Kerry from 1973 to 1988. Won five All-Ireland Senior Football Championships. Transitioned into a successful career in sports broadcasting, providing commentary and analysis on Gaelic games. Remains a prominent figure in sports media in Ireland.

Continue Reading

Reggie Sanders

Baseball player with World Series titles
Born
December 1st, 1967 57 years ago

A professional baseball player, had a career spanning from 1986 to 2006. Played for multiple Major League Baseball teams, including the San Diego Padres, Cincinnati Reds, and Kansas City Royals. Achieved notable success by winning two World Series championships during tenures with the Florida Marlins and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Renowned for versatility in the outfield and base running skills, with a career batting average of approximately .273.

Continue Reading

Sebastián Piñera

Chilean businessman and politician
Born
December 1st, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 35th President of Chile, with terms from 2010 to 2014 and 2018 to 2022. Completed degrees in commercial engineering and economics at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile and earned a Ph.D. in economics from Harvard University. Developed a successful career in business and became one of the wealthiest people in Chile through investments in various sectors, particularly in airlines and telecommunications. Additionally, held various roles in government, including serving as a senator. Played a significant role in Chile's political landscape during both presidencies, facing significant social movements and protests during the second term, which led to initiatives aimed at reforming the Chilean political system.

Continue Reading

Jan Brett

Children's book author and illustrator
Born
December 1st, 1949 75 years ago

An author and illustrator of children's books, this individual has created a significant body of work that includes enchanting illustrations and engaging stories. Titles include 'The Mitten', 'The Hat', and 'Gingerbread Friends', featuring rich, detailed artwork inspired by folk tales and nature. A passion for storytelling and visual artistry has characterized the career, leading to widespread recognition and readership.

Continue Reading

Ledi Sayadaw

Burmese monk and philosopher
Born
December 1st, 1846 178 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 77 years old

Born in Burma, a prominent monk and philosopher shaped modern Burmese Buddhism. Focused on the adaptation of traditional teachings to contemporary contexts, emphasizing meditation and ethical conduct. Established the Ledi Tradition of Vipassana meditation, which attracted many followers. Authored numerous texts on Buddhism, contributing to the clarity and accessibility of the teachings for lay practitioners. Involved in the revival of the Theravada tradition during a time of colonial influence.

Continue Reading

Judith Hackitt

Chemist and engineer with HSE acclaim
Born
December 1st, 1954 70 years ago

An English chemist and engineer played a significant role in advancing safety regulations in the UK. Served as the Chair of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) from 2007 to 2016, focusing on improving workplace safety standards. Led investigations into major incidents and worked on comprehensive safety frameworks, particularly after the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy. Authored the 'Building a Safer Future' report, which outlined necessary reforms in building regulations and safety practices.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on October 12th

Alf Landon

American politician and governor of Kansas
Born
September 9th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1987 38 years ago — 100 years old

Served as the 26th Governor of Kansas from 1933 to 1937. Landon pursued a career in banking prior to entering politics, which established his financial expertise. In 1936, Landon was the Republican Party's nominee for President of the United States but lost to Franklin D. Roosevelt. His political career included efforts to modernize state operations and reform government functions in Kansas.

Continue Reading

Edith Cavell

Nurse and humanitarian during WWI
Born
December 4th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1915 110 years ago — 49 years old

Worked as a nurse in Belgium during World War I, providing care to wounded soldiers from both the Allied and German forces. Established the first nursing school in Belgium and played a pivotal role in developing nursing practices. Assisted over two hundred Allied soldiers in escaping German-occupied Belgium, leading to her arrest. Executed by a German firing squad in 1915, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals during wartime. Her legacy extends through numerous memorials and the continued recognition of her contributions to nursing and humanitarian efforts.

Continue Reading

Ram Manohar Lohia

Indian politician and activist
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1967 58 years ago — 57 years old

Active in the Indian independence movement, played a significant role in the political landscape of India post-independence. Advocated for social justice and opposed the British colonial rule. Founded the Azad Dosti League and the Samyukta Socialist Party. Worked on issues of poverty alleviation, caste discrimination, and government accountability. Influenced the political discourse through writings and speeches.

Continue Reading

Richard Molesworth

Irish field marshal and politician
Born
1680 345 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1758 267 years ago — 78 years old

Served as an Irish field marshal during the 18th century. Held the title of 3rd Viscount Molesworth. Participated in military campaigns and engaged in political affairs. Contributed to military strategy and governance in Ireland. Passed away in 1758.

Continue Reading

Frank Vandenbroucke

Cyclist with multiple Grand Tour victories
Born
November 6th, 1974 51 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2009 16 years ago — 34 years old

A Belgian cyclist achieved significant success in road racing during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Vandenbroucke won the prestigious 1999 Paris-Nice race and claimed victory in the 2000 Tour of Flanders. His career also included notable achievements in one-day races. His talents were evident when he also secured stages in major tours, showcasing prowess in both climbing and sprinting. Vandenbroucke represented several professional teams, including Mapei and Cofidis, and garnered attention for his performances in both the Grand Tours and World Championships. Despite personal challenges, his cycling abilities earned him recognition in the sport. Vandenbroucke's legacy includes contributions to the competitive cycling scene in Belgium.

Continue Reading

Angelika Machinek

Glider pilot and world champion
Born
November 17th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2006 19 years ago — 49 years old

A glider pilot achieved significant success in competitive soaring. Won multiple championships, including the Women's World Gliding Championships. Competed at various international events, showcasing skills in glider navigation and performance. Contributed to the sport through mentorship and promoting soaring activities globally.

Continue Reading