Mona Hanna-Attisha
Pediatrician and public health advocate
A pediatrician and professor at Michigan State University, engaged in public health advocacy. Played a crucial role in uncovering the Flint water crisis, highlighting lead contamination affecting children in Flint, Michigan. Her research and outreach efforts aimed to protect vulnerable communities and raise awareness about environmental health issues.
Led research on lead exposure in Flint's water
Authored the book 'What the Eyes Don't See'
Testified before Congress on water safety
Other People Born on December 9th
Metius
Dutch mathematician and astronomer
Born
December 9th, 1571 454 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1635 391 years ago — 63 years old
A mathematician and astronomer contributed to the fields of trigonometry and astronomy. Developed a star catalog and worked on improving astronomical instruments. Associated with the introduction of a novel method for surveying. Helped in the advancement of mathematical techniques in the 17th century.
Continue ReadingMackenzie Blackwood
Canadian ice hockey player and goaltender
Born
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago
Drafted 42nd overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Made professional debut with the Devils in 2018. Established as the team's starting goaltender during the 2019-2020 season. Played significant games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs as a key player for the Devils. Represented Canada at international competitions, contributing to the team's success in tournaments.
Continue ReadingBuck Henry
American screenwriter and director
Born
December 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2020 6 years ago — 89 years old
An influential screenwriter, director, and actor, contributions spanned the 1960s to the 2000s. Co-created and wrote for the television series "Get Smart," which became a cultural touchstone for comedic television. Directed films including "Heaven Can Wait" and "The Graduate," receiving critical acclaim and award nominations. Served as a frequent host of "Saturday Night Live," showcasing comedic talents and writing prowess.
Continue ReadingFritz Haber
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1934 92 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1868, a chemist contributed significantly to the development of chemical processes and agricultural practices. Developed the Haber-Bosch process for synthesizing ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen, which revolutionized fertilizer production. This process greatly influenced agricultural productivity worldwide. In 1918, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for this work. Additionally, worked on chemical warfare during World War I, which sparked ethical controversies surrounding scientific contributions to warfare. Died in 1934.
Continue ReadingKirsten Gillibrand
American politician and U.S. senator
Born
December 9th, 1966 59 years ago
Elected to the United States Senate in 2009, served as a representative for New York. Advocated for women's rights, military reform, and health care issues. Played a significant role in the Senate committees on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Armed Services. Previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York's 20th congressional district. Appointed to fill the vacancy left by Hillary Clinton, completed the full term and was re-elected multiple times.
Continue ReadingÉmile Waldteufel
French composer of waltzes and operettas
Born
December 9th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1915 111 years ago — 77 years old
A pianist and conductor from France, celebrated for composing a variety of waltzes and operettas during the late 19th century. Waldteufel gained prominence with works that blended catchy melodies and light orchestration. His most famous piece, "Les Patineurs," made a significant mark in the world of light classical music and continues to be widely performed today. He served as the conductor for several prominent orchestras and became a respected figure in the Paris musical scene, collaborating with various notable artists and organizations. His contributions to the waltz genre cemented his place in music history.
Continue Reading