Oscar Lewis

American anthropologist of Latin America

Oscar Lewis - American anthropologist of Latin America
Born

December 25th, 1914
110 years ago

Died

December 16th, 1970
54 years ago — 55 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the field of anthropology with a focus on the lives and cultures of the poor in Latin America. Developed the concept of the 'culture of poverty' based on extensive fieldwork in Mexico and Puerto Rico. Spent much of his career studying the socio-economic conditions affecting marginalized communities and published numerous works that highlighted social conditions and human behavior.

Formulated the concept of the culture of poverty

Published 'Five Families: Mexican Case Studies in the Culture of Poverty'

Conducted extensive field research in Puerto Rico

Other People Born on December 25th

Wilson Fittipaldi Júnior

Race car driver with F1 success
Born
December 25th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Brazil in 1943, a prominent race car driver achieved success in Formula One during the early 1970s. Competed for teams such as Wilsão and the Emerson Fittipaldi team, establishing a legacy in the sport. Transitioned from racing to a successful business career after retiring from competitive racing in the late 1970s, contributing to the automotive industry with various ventures.

Continue Reading

China Machado

Fashion model and television producer
Born
December 25th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

Born in China, a Portuguese-American fashion model, editor, and television producer. Gained recognition as one of the first Asian models to achieve success in the fashion industry during the 1950s and 1960s. Worked with prominent designers and contributed to major fashion publications. Served as a model and later as an editor, significantly influencing the fashion landscape. Expanded her career into television production, where she produced content that showcased the arts and culture.

Continue Reading

Jacqui McShee

English singer with Pentangle
Born
December 25th, 1943 81 years ago

A prominent figure in the British folk music scene, gained recognition as the lead vocalist of the band Pentangle. The group formed in 1967 and became known for blending traditional folk music with jazz, blues, and rock elements. Released several influential albums, including "Basket of Light" and "Reflection," during the late 1960s and early 1970s. McShee's distinctive vocal style contributed significantly to the band's unique sound. Continued to perform both with Pentangle and as a solo artist, showcasing a consistent dedication to folk music throughout the decades.

Continue Reading

Ahmed Ben Bella

Algerian soldier and politician, 1st President
Born
December 25th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

A soldier and politician played a key role in Algeria's struggle for independence from France. Served as the first President of Algeria from 1963 to 1965 after leading the National Liberation Front (FLN) during the war. After being overthrown in a coup, spent many years in exile. Returned to Algeria after the end of the civil war, becoming a respected figure in the country.

Continue Reading

Hugo Bergmann

Czech-Israeli philosopher and academic
Born
December 25th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1975 50 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1883, this philosopher and academic contributed significantly to Jewish thought and philosophy. Educated in Berlin and influenced by the Berlin School of Jewish Philosophy, he later became a prominent figure in the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. This individual was instrumental in promoting the philosophical legacy of Jewish thinkers and writers during the early 20th century. A proponent of integrating Western philosophy with Jewish thought, he engaged in dialogue with existentialism and phenomenology. His work addressed themes such as ethics, metaphysics, and the role of Jewish identity in modern society.

Continue Reading

John IV Laskaris

Byzantine Emperor during the 13th century
Born
December 25th, 1250 774 years ago
Died
1305 720 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1250, a Byzantine emperor reigned during a time of significant turmoil. Ascended to the throne as a child after the fall of Constantinople to the Latin Empire. His reign was marked by the struggle against Latin rule and the efforts to restore Byzantine sovereignty. His rule faced challenges from within the empire and external pressures from rival factions. The emperor spent part of his reign under the influence of his guardian, Michael VIII Palaiologos, who eventually took control of the throne. Despite efforts to secure Byzantine territories, his reign ultimately ended with the rise of the Palaiologos dynasty.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 16th

Johann Adolph Hasse

German singer and composer known for operas
Born
March 25th, 1699 326 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1783 241 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1699, a prominent figure in 18th-century opera, contributed significantly to the development of Italian opera in Germany. Studied in Naples and became associated with the Neapolitan school. Held positions in various European courts, including those in Dresden and Venice. Composed over 20 operas, which were well received during his lifetime. His works often featured elaborate vocal lines and dramatic orchestration, showcasing the style of the time. His influence extended to later composers, shaping the evolution of opera.

Continue Reading

Keely Smith

American singer and actress known for 'The Tonight Show'
Born
March 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2017 7 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1928, a prominent American singer and actress achieved recognition through a successful career in music and television. Smith gained fame as a vocalist in the 1950s, particularly for her partnership with Louis Prima. The duo's performances blended jazz and popular styles, with Smith's powerful voice complementing Prima's energetic showmanship. Smith's appearances on national television, especially on 'The Tonight Show' during the 1960s, contributed to her widespread acclaim. She also recorded several acclaimed albums showcasing her vocal ability. Her career spanned decades, during which she became known for her exceptional skills in both singing and performing. Smith continued to entertain audiences until her later years.

Continue Reading

Aileen Pringle

American actress in silent films
Born
July 23rd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1989 35 years ago — 94 years old

An American actress, significant contributions were made to the silent film era during the 1910s and 1920s. Pringle appeared in over 30 films, starting her career after participating in various theatrical productions. Leading roles in films such as "The Whispering Chorus" and "The Devil's Playground" showcased her talent. Transitioning to sound films, she remained active in the industry until the late 1930s, before retiring from acting.

Continue Reading

Fumimaro Konoe

Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
October 12th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1945 79 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the 39th Prime Minister of Japan from 1940 to 1941. As Prime Minister, played a significant role during a crucial period of World War II. Advocated for military expansion and sought to strengthen Japan's position in Asia. Resigned amid increasing pressures and the changing tide of the war, later involved in post-war politics.

Continue Reading

Dick Van Arsdale

American basketball player, All-Star
Born
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2024 0 years ago — 81 years old

Played basketball professionally in the NBA from 1965 to 1977. Spent the majority of career with the Phoenix Suns. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1970 and established a reputation as a skilled scorer and tenacious defender. After retirement, contributed to the sport as a coach and executive in the Suns' organization.

Continue Reading

Nicol Williamson

Scottish actor in 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution'
Born
September 14th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2011 13 years ago — 73 years old

An accomplished Scottish actor, recognized for his versatile performances in film and theater. Gained prominence with roles in productions such as 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution' where he portrayed Sherlock Holmes and 'Excalibur' as Merlin. Most notable for a commanding stage presence and an ability to embody complex characters.

Continue Reading