Orval Faubus
36th Governor of Arkansas during desegregation
Served as the 36th Governor of Arkansas from 1955 to 1967. Gained national attention for opposing the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School in 1957, utilizing the Arkansas National Guard to prevent nine African American students from entering the school. This act of defiance against federal authority prompted intervention by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who deployed federal troops to enforce the desegregation order. Faubus's tenure included a focus on education and infrastructure but was overshadowed by his stance on civil rights.
Opposed desegregation at Little Rock Central High School
Served as Governor of Arkansas for 12 years
Other People Born on January 7th
Jann Wenner
Publisher, co-founder of Rolling Stone
Born
January 7th, 1946 80 years ago
Co-founded Rolling Stone magazine in 1967, which became a leading voice in music and culture. Served as editor and publisher, shaping the publication's direction and influence. Played a significant role in the rise of rock journalism, providing a platform for influential artists and writers. Founded Men's Journal in 1992, further expanding the media portfolio. Authored the book 'Sticky Fingers: The Life and Times of Jann Wenner and Rolling Stone Magazine' which provides insights into his experiences and the evolution of the publication.
Continue ReadingLee Sun-bin
South Korean actress and singer
Born
January 7th, 1994 32 years ago
Born in South Korea, a career in entertainment began with appearances in television dramas and music. Gained recognition for roles in series such as 'Chief Kim' and 'The Lady in Dignity'. Also appeared in films like 'The Swindlers'. In addition to acting, engaged in music projects, showcasing vocal talent through various singles and performances. Continues to work in both acting and music, contributing to the South Korean entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingGerald Durrell
Zookeeper and conservationist, author
Born
January 7th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
1995 31 years ago — 70 years old
An Indian-English zookeeper, conservationist, and author founded Durrell Wildlife Park in Jersey, which focuses on conserving endangered species. Authored several books detailing adventures in the natural world, including 'My Family and Other Animals,' which reflects childhood experiences in Greece. Championed wildlife conservation through establishing the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. Promoted public awareness of wildlife preservation through television documentaries.
Continue ReadingAleksandr Dugin
Political analyst and strategist
Born
January 7th, 1962 64 years ago
Born in 1962, this individual has been a significant figure in Russian political thought and strategy. He developed the concept of Eurasianism, advocating for a geopolitical alliance between Russia and various countries across Eurasia. This individual has played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary Russian nationalism and has been associated with far-right ideologies. Engaging with the political landscape, writings have influenced some segments of Russian politics and have become essential in the discourse surrounding Russia's foreign policy.
Continue ReadingBernadette Soubirous
French nun and saint of Lourdes
Born
January 7th, 1844 182 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1879 147 years ago — 35 years old
Born in 1844, this individual became a nun and gained attention after experiencing visions of the Virgin Mary in a grotto in Lourdes, France. These apparitions led to the site becoming a major place of pilgrimage. This individual spent most of life in a convent and devoted years serving in a religious capacity. Canonized as a saint in 1933, her life story and the events at Lourdes have inspired countless faithful and are central to Catholic devotion.
Continue ReadingGeorge Elphinstone
Scottish admiral and politician
Born
January 7th, 1746 280 years ago
Died
1823 203 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1746, served as a Royal Navy officer during pivotal naval battles. Promoted to the rank of admiral, played key roles in the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. Appointed Governor of Cape Colony and Lord of the Admiralty, influenced naval policy. Elevated to the peerage as 1st Viscount Keith, recognized for strategic leadership and contributions to military reform.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 14th
Friedrich of Saxony
Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights
Born
October 26th, 1473 552 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1510 515 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1473, served as the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights from 1510 until 1525. Led the Order during a pivotal period following the loss of the Battle of Sztum. Oversaw the transformation of the Order's territory into a duchy under Polish sovereignty, significantly altering its political landscape. Continued to engage in diplomatic negotiations to uphold the interests of the Order during this transition.
Continue ReadingSalvador de Madariaga
Historian and diplomat with notable scholarship
Born
July 23rd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1978 47 years ago — 92 years old
This individual served as a historian and diplomat. An advocate for peace and international cooperation, contributed to various academic works focused on political science and history. Notable publications include "The Spanish Civil War" and "The Life of Columbus." Held influential roles in organizations aimed at promoting understanding among nations. Also engaged in public service as a diplomat, representing Spain in various international forums. Worked to foster cultural exchanges and understanding between countries throughout his career.
Continue ReadingPaulo Evaristo Arns
Brazilian cardinal and activist
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2016 9 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the Archbishop of São Paulo from 1970 to 1998. Played a significant role in advocating for human rights during the military dictatorship in Brazil. Promoted social justice and worked to improve the conditions of the poor and marginalized. Contributed to the development of liberation theology, emphasizing the need for the church to address social issues. Actively participated in public debates on religious and political matters, gaining prominence for work in pastoral care and social activism.
Continue ReadingVadym Tyshchenko
Footballer and manager with FC Metalurh
Born
March 24th, 1963 63 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2015 10 years ago — 52 years old
Born in Ukraine, a professional footballer began his career at FC Metalurh Zaporizhzhia. Transitioned to a management role after retiring from playing, taking charge of various teams including FC Metalurh and FC Dnipro. During playing career, recognized for defensive skills and leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingIsak Andic
Billionaire businessman and founder
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
December 14th, 2024 1 years ago — 71 years old
A Turkish-Spanish businessman founded the fashion retailer Mango in the late 1980s. Established a global brand with a presence in over 100 countries. Expanded the company's product range to include women's, men's, and children's clothing, as well as accessories. Successfully navigated the company through various economic climates and fashion trends, keeping it relevant and competitive in the retail industry.
Continue ReadingJohan Georg Forchhammer
Danish mineralogist and geologist
Born
July 24th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1865 160 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1794, a primary figure in mineralogy and geology. Conducted extensive research on minerals and their compositions, providing foundational contributions to the field. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen, influencing future generations of geologists. Authored several key publications, including work on mineral classification and geological surveys of Denmark.
Continue Reading