Moses Mendelssohn
German philosopher and theologian
An influential philosopher and theologian, contributed significantly to the Jewish Enlightenment movement in Germany. Advocated for religious tolerance and the integration of Jews into European society. Played a critical role in the development of modern Jewish thought. Translated works of prominent philosophers such as John Locke and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz into German, making them accessible to a wider audience. His major work, 'Jerusalem, or on Religious Power and Judaism', addressed the relationship between religion and state.
Wrote 'Jerusalem, or on Religious Power and Judaism'
Translated classical philosophical texts into German
Other People Born on September 6th
Schalk Willem Burger
South African commander and politician
Born
September 6th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1918 107 years ago — 66 years old
Served as the 6th President of the South African Republic from 1900 to 1902. Played a significant role during the Second Boer War, overseeing military operations and engaging in negotiations with British officials. Worked as a lawyer before venturing into politics, becoming a prominent figure in the Boer leadership. Contributed to the establishment of the South African Republic's governance and policies during a turbulent period in South African history.
Continue ReadingMilan Lukić
War criminal convicted by the ICTY
Born
September 6th, 1967 58 years ago
A Bosnian Serb convicted of war crimes by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). In 2012, received a life sentence for crimes against humanity, including murder and persecution during the Bosnian War. The tribunal outlined Lukić's role in the Srebrenica massacre and other atrocities in 1992 and 1993. Significant evidence presented included testimonies from survivors and documentation of the violent acts committed during the conflict.
Continue ReadingMichaëlle Jean
Journalist and 27th Governor-General of Canada
Born
September 6th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in Haiti and later moving to Canada, served as the 27th Governor-General of Canada from 2005 to 2010. Prior to this role, engaged in journalism and was a prominent figure in broadcasting. Actively involved in various humanitarian causes and cultural initiatives both in Canada and internationally.
Continue ReadingKorczak Ziolkowski
Sculptor, designer of Crazy Horse Memorial
Born
September 6th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 74 years old
An American sculptor focused on monumental art, particularly recognized for designing the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota. The undertaking aimed to honor the Lakota leader, Crazy Horse, and symbolizes Native American culture. Ziolkowski began the project in 1948 and dedicated his life to its realization, although it remained incomplete at the time of his death in 1982. The memorial has since become a symbol of reconciliation and understanding between Native Americans and other communities.
Continue ReadingWilliam Lane
Journalist and founder of New Australia
Born
September 6th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 56 years old
Born in England and later moving to Australia, engaged in journalism and social reform. Founded the New Australia settlement in Paraguay, promoting a communal lifestyle based on socialist principles. Contributed to several publications, advocating for workers' rights and political change.
Continue ReadingFelix Salten
Austrian-Swiss author of Bambi
Born
September 6th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1945 80 years ago — 76 years old
An author and critic, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Wrote the children's novel 'Bambi, A Life in the Woods', published in 1923, which explored themes of nature and life in the forest. The story was later adapted into a successful animated film by Disney in 1942, bringing the narrative to a broader audience. Besides children's literature, engaged in journalism and theater, contributing to various publications throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 4th
Joseph Hubert Reinkens
Bishop and academic in Germany
Born
March 1st, 1821 204 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1896 129 years ago — 74 years old
Ordained as a priest, held significant roles within the Catholic Church. Contributed to theological scholarship while engaging in ecclesiastical matters. Played a pivotal role in the Old Catholic movement. Opposed the dogma of papal infallibility established at the First Vatican Council. Advocated for a more regional and independent church governance.
Continue ReadingIron Eyes Cody
Actor and stuntman of Native American roles
Born
April 3rd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1999 26 years ago — 94 years old
An actor and stuntman, contributed significantly to the portrayal of Native American characters in film and television. Gained recognition for performances in classic Westerns. Starred in the 1972 anti-littering public service announcement, which became iconic. Featured in various films throughout the 1940s to the 1990s, embodying the Native American experience and advocating for cultural representation.
Continue ReadingEve Arnold
Photographer and journalist recognized for portraiture
Born
April 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2012 13 years ago — 99 years old
Achieved acclaim as a documentary photographer and photojournalist. Worked extensively with publications such as Magnum Photos and Life magazine. Captured intimate portraits of notable subjects including Marilyn Monroe and the working-class population in America. Published several photography books and was recognized for contributions to the field of photojournalism.
Continue ReadingGlynis Johns
British actress known for Mary Poppins
Born
October 5th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 100 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, she gained prominence for her performances in film, television, and theater. The role of Winifred Banks in 'Mary Poppins' showcased her musical talent and charm, leading to lasting recognition. A distinguished career spanned several decades, featuring notable performances on stage and screen. Work includes appearances in productions such as 'The Court Jester' and 'The Happiest Millionaire'. The versatility in her performances earned critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
Continue ReadingMaktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Emirati politician, 1st Prime Minister UAE
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2006 19 years ago — 60 years old
Served as the first Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates from 1971 until death in 2006. Oversaw the development of the nation post-independence, implementing significant infrastructure projects and promoting modernization. Also held the title of Ruler of Dubai, contributing to the emirate's rapid economic growth and global tourism appeal. Enhanced the UAE's international standing through various initiatives and collaborations.
Continue ReadingXavier Chamorro Cardenal
Nicaraguan journalist and editor
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2008 17 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Nicaraguan journalist, played a critical role in shaping the media landscape. Served as the editor of the newspaper La Prensa, one of the most significant publications in Nicaragua. Faced persecution during the Sandinista government due to editorial stances and coverage of political events. Advocated for freedom of the press and democratic values in the country. His career was marked by a commitment to independent journalism and protecting journalistic integrity.
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