Pedro II of Brazil
Emperor of Brazil and abolition advocate
Ruled Brazil from 1831 to 1889 as the second emperor. Ascended to the throne at a young age after the abdication of the first emperor. Oversaw significant economic development and modernization during the reign, including the expansion of railroads and telegraphs. Advocated for the abolition of slavery, leading to the signing of the Lei Áurea in 1888, which abolished slavery in Brazil. His reign ended with the Brazilian monarchy's abolition and establishment of a republic in 1889.
Abolished slavery in Brazil in 1888
Facilitated the modernization of Brazil's economy
Ruled as the second emperor from 1831 to 1889
Other People Born on December 2nd
Joseph P. Lash
American activist and author
Born
December 2nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1987 38 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1909, a prominent American activist and author engaged in leftist political movements. Contributed to various social justice causes, notably in the labor movement. Worked closely with Eleanor Roosevelt during her time as a public figure, advocating for civil rights and women's rights. Authored several works including the biography 'Eleanor Roosevelt: Volume One, 1884-1933' which detailed the life of the former First Lady, showcasing the intersection of personal and political life. Contributed to the discourse on social change and the role of government in supporting civil rights.
Continue ReadingEmmanuel Agyemang-Badu
Ghanaian footballer with Udinese FC
Born
December 2nd, 1990 35 years ago
Professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Career started at Berekum Chelsea in Ghana before moving to Europe. Joined Udinese FC in 2010 and contributed to the team's performances in Serie A. Earned caps for the Ghana national team, participating in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup. Also played for clubs like Hellas Verona and was instrumental in key matches for both club and country.
Continue ReadingDeacon White
Baseball player and manager with a notable legacy
Born
December 2nd, 1847 178 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1939 86 years ago — 91 years old
Played professional baseball from 1868 to 1890, contributing significantly to the early development of the sport in the United States. Managed teams in the National League and was a pioneer in the catcher position. Advocated for better treatment of players and was instrumental in the establishment of player rights and team management practices.
Continue ReadingDe'Andre Hunter
Basketball player with Atlanta Hawks
Born
December 2nd, 1997 28 years ago
Professional basketball player competed in the NBA. Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers as the fourth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft before being traded to the Atlanta Hawks. Played college basketball at the University of Virginia, contributing to the team's victory in the 2019 NCAA Championship. Known for defensive skills and versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingJulie Harris
American actress and stage performer
Born
December 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
August 24th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
An acclaimed actress, gained prominence in theater and film. Achieved notable success on Broadway, winning multiple Tony Awards. Starred in iconic productions such as 'The Member of the Wedding' and 'East of Eden'. Received an Academy Award nomination for 'Splendor in the Grass'. Contributed to television with a successful career, earning Emmy Awards for performances in 'Little Moon of Alban' and 'Plainsong'.
Continue ReadingJohn Barbirolli
Conductor and cellist leading orchestras
Born
December 2nd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1970 55 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent conductor and cellist, born in 1899. Barbirolli studied at the Royal Academy of Music and toured Europe as a cellist before focusing on conducting. He served as the conductor of several major orchestras, including the Hallé Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra. His expertise in interpreting and performing classical music contributed to his reputation in the music community. Barbirolli was notable for his interpretations of works by composers such as Mahler and Elgar, bringing their music to broader audiences through numerous recordings and concerts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 5th
Ernest C. Brace
American captain and pilot
Born
August 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
Served as a captain and pilot in the United States Navy. Participated in the Vietnam War, where a mission resulted in an aircraft crash and subsequent capture by North Vietnamese forces. Spent more than seven years as a prisoner of war. Returned to the U.S. after being released in 1973. Contributed to international military relations as a pilot and instructor after retirement.
Continue ReadingGaspard Bauhin
Swiss botanist and author of Pinax.
Born
January 17th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1624 401 years ago — 64 years old
Significant contributions to botanical nomenclature and classification took place, establishing the basis for modern taxonomy. Published "Pinax Theatri Botanici," which listed more than 6,000 plants and proposed a systematic way to classify them. Acted as a professor of medicine at the University of Basel, where studies in botany and medicinal plants flourished. Developed extensive illustrations and descriptions of plants, influencing later naturalists and botanists.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich Fasch
German composer and violinist
Born
April 15th, 1688 337 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1758 267 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1688, a significant figure in the Baroque music era, recognized for contributions to both instrumental and vocal music. Composed numerous orchestral works, cantatas, and chamber music. Served as a Kapellmeister in several courts, particularly in Zerbst, where he worked to develop and promote music. His compositions often reflected the stylistic transitions of the period, blending German and Italian styles. Throughout his career, contributions to the development of the concerto grosso form were notable.
Continue ReadingGwen Harwood
Australian poet and playwright with acclaim
Born
June 8th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 75 years old
Prominent in Australian literature, contributed significantly through poetry and theatrical works. Key poems include 'In the Park' and 'The Lion's Bride', both showcasing themes of identity and the human experience. Authored several plays, enhancing the cultural landscape of Australia. Achieved notable recognition, including winning the prestigious Patrick White Award and the Grace Leven Prize. Engaged in editing and literary criticism, shaping contemporary Australian poetic forms and expressions. Her works have been studied in various academic settings, inspiring new generations of writers.
Continue ReadingEalhswith
Queen consort of Alfred the Great
Died
December 5th, 902 1123 years ago — None years old
Married Alfred the Great, King of Wessex, in 868. Played a significant role in the court's affairs and the development of Wessex during Viking invasions. Ealhswith was involved in the establishment of monasteries and supported educational initiatives. After the death of her husband in 899, she continued to influence the royal household.
Continue ReadingElisabeth Murdoch
Philanthropist and community leader
Born
February 8th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 103 years old
Born in Australia in 1909, a philanthropist dedicated to various charitable endeavors. In 1962, established the Elisabeth Murdoch Foundation to support arts, education, health, and welfare initiatives. Contributed to the development of the Australian arts scene and supported various cultural institutions. Played a key role in empowering women and advancing education through numerous charitable projects throughout her life.
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