Natsume Sōseki
Japanese author and poet
Born in 1867, an influential Japanese author and poet. Literature primarily focused on the complexities of the human experience within the context of Japanese society. Notable works include the novels 'I Am a Cat' and 'Kokoro', both reflecting deep philosophical insights and character studies. Contributed significantly to the modernization of Japanese literature during the Meiji era.
Wrote 'I Am a Cat'
Wrote 'Kokoro'
Contributed to modern Japanese literature
Other People Born on February 9th
Gabriel Rotello
Journalist and author, founded OutWeek
Born
February 9th, 1953 73 years ago
A journalist and author, contributed significantly to LGBTQ+ media and culture. Founded OutWeek, a groundbreaking publication that focused on gay issues during the 1980s and 1990s. Wrote extensively on topics related to sexuality, politics, and culture. Published several influential works addressing the AIDS crisis and its impact on the gay community. Engaged in activism promoting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility through writing and public speaking.
Continue ReadingKermit Gosnell
Abortionist and criminal practitioner
Born
February 9th, 1941 85 years ago
Operating a West Philadelphia clinic for decades, engaged in abortion services. Faced multiple legal challenges over unsafe conditions and practices. Convicted in 2013 of various crimes including three counts of first-degree murder related to late-term abortion procedures. The trial gained national attention, highlighting issues concerning abortion practices and healthcare regulations.
Continue ReadingRandall Delgado
Baseball player, Atlanta Braves pitcher
Born
February 9th, 1990 36 years ago
A professional baseball player from Panama, he played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). Delgado made his MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2013. His career included stints with other teams as well, contributing to their pitching rotations. Throughout his career, Delgado showcased strong skills as a starting pitcher and relief pitcher.
Continue ReadingKelli Berglund
American actress and television star
Born
February 9th, 1996 30 years ago
This actress gained recognition for her role as Bree Davenport in the Disney XD series 'Lab Rats.' Born in 1996, she began acting at a young age and appeared in various television shows and films. She also starred in the movie 'How to Build a Girl' and had a role in the series 'Now Apocalypse.' Throughout her career, she showcased her talents in both comedic and dramatic roles, earning a dedicated fanbase.
Continue ReadingVince Papale
American football player, sportscaster
Born
February 9th, 1946 80 years ago
Played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1976 to 1978. Transitioned to a career in broadcasting after retiring from professional football. Papale's story inspired the movie 'Invincible,' which depicted his journey from a bartender to an NFL player. His tenacity and determination on and off the field became a story of perseverance and success.
Continue ReadingCallistus Ndlovu
Zimbabwean academic and politician
Born
February 9th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2019 7 years ago — 83 years old
An academic and politician with significant involvement in education and governance. Played a role in Zimbabwe's independence movement and served in various government positions. Contributed to the development of educational policies and institutions in Zimbabwe. Held the position of Minister of Education and Culture, overseeing liberal educational reforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Patty Donahue
Singer and member of The Waitresses
Born
March 29th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 40 years old
An American singer gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the band The Waitresses, which emerged in the late 1970s. The music group is well-known for their unique blend of punk and new wave, particularly for their hit single 'I Know What Boys Like'. The Waitresses released several albums during their career, including 'Wasn't Tomorrow Wonderful?' and 'Shake It Up'. After the band's initial success, continued to perform and contribute to various projects in the music industry until the mid-1990s.
Continue ReadingUbbo Emmius
Dutch historian and geographer
Born
December 5th, 1547 478 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1625 400 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1547, a significant historian and geographer, contributed to the understanding of Dutch history and geography. Initiated the practice of modern historical criticism in the Netherlands. Authored numerous works, including histories and geographic texts, which shaped the academic landscape of the era. Served as a rector and professor at various institutions, influencing generations of students. His scholarship provided foundational knowledge that would impact historical research methodologies in later years.
Continue ReadingAlex Moulton
Engineer and bicycle innovator
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
An English engineer and businessman, founded the Moulton Bicycle Company. Contributed to the design and development of small-wheeled bicycles known for their innovative structure and performance. Worked on various engineering projects throughout his career and developed a strong reputation in the cycling industry.
Continue ReadingMary Leakey
Archaeologist known for early hominids
Born
February 6th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
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.
Continue ReadingPope Clement IX
Pope; presided over the Papacy
Born
1600 426 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1669 356 years ago — 69 years old
Served as Pope from 1667 until death in 1669. His papacy was marked by efforts to promote peace within Europe and address the cultural and political challenges of the time. He played a role in the reconciliation of various factions within the Catholic Church and sought to harmonize relations with different European powers. His tenure witnessed the continuation of the Counter-Reformation efforts initiated by previous Popes. Notably, he oversaw the completion of the new Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome.
Continue ReadingGustaf Dalén
Swedish physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 30th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1937 88 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1869, a physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the development of gas absorption and automatic regulation systems. Established the AGA company, which pioneered the production of gas lamps, including those used for lighthouses. Achieved recognition in 1912 with the Nobel Prize in Physics for inventions related to gas lamps and the development of the sun valve, which enabled automatic operation of lighthouses. His work had a substantial influence on maritime navigation safety through improved lighthouse technology.
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