Rewi Alley
Writer and political activist
A writer and political activist associated with New Zealand, played a significant role in the Chinese revolution and social movements. Spent many years in China, contributing to literature and education. Established schools and worked with various organizations to promote literacy and social welfare. Wrote extensively about his experiences in China and advocated for cooperative farming and rural development.
Authored influential works on Chinese society
Established education programs in China
Other People Born on December 2nd
John Cobb
Race car driver and pilot with record attempts
Born
December 2nd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1952 73 years ago — 52 years old
Achieved prominence as a race car driver and pilot in the early 20th century. Competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving significant success in endurance racing. Pursued speed records on land and water, becoming known for setting multiple world records throughout his career. Also served in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I, showcasing skills as a pilot. Engaged in various attempts to break speed records, both on the ground with cars and on water with hydroplanes. Tragically died in a record attempt in 1952, leaving behind a legacy in motorsport and aviation.
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 ReadingPaul Watson
Environmental activist and founder
Born
December 2nd, 1950 75 years ago
An environmental activist, founded the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in 1977 to protect marine life and ecosystems. Engaged in direct action campaigns against whaling and illegal fishing practices. Has been involved in various high-profile interventions to stop hunting of seals and dolphins. Watson's efforts have drawn international attention to environmental issues and prompted discussions on maritime conservation.
Continue ReadingHenry Yesler
American businessman and politician
Born
December 2nd, 1810 215 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1892 133 years ago — 82 years old
A businessman and politician served as the 7th Mayor of Seattle. He established a successful sawmill, which played a significant role in the city's economic development during the 19th century. Yesler was influential in the growth of Seattle as an important trade center and facilitated the development of infrastructure, including roads and public services. His tenure as mayor was marked by efforts to improve the city’s governance and urban planning, contributing to Seattle's transformation into a key Pacific Northwest city. Yesler was also active in real estate and local politics.
Continue ReadingGary Becker
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 2nd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2014 12 years ago — 83 years old
An American economist and academic contributed to various fields, including the economics of family, education, and discrimination. Becker authored several influential books, most notably 'The Economic Approach to Human Behavior' which applied economic theory to social issues. His work prominently featured the concept of human capital, emphasizing the value of education and skills in economic development. Becker's theories reshaped understanding of labor market dynamics and contributed to policy debates on education and social issues. As a professor at the University of Chicago, he influenced generations of economists and students. In 1992, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his analysis of family behavior and human capital.
Continue ReadingJoseph 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on December 27th
Achilles Alferaki
Russian composer and politician
Born
July 3rd, 1846 179 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1919 106 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1846, a prominent composer and politician in Russia, served as the Governor of Taganrog. Contributed significantly to the musical landscape of the region while engaging in political affairs. His compositions reflected the cultural milieu of 19th-century Russia. Maintained a dual focus on both governance and music, illustrating a commitment to public service and artistic expression.
Continue ReadingLester B. Pearson
Canadian Prime Minister and Nobel laureate
Born
April 23rd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1972 53 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the 14th Prime Minister of Canada from 1963 to 1968. Played a significant role in establishing Canada's modern welfare state and promoting peacekeeping initiatives. Instrumental in the creation of the United Nations Emergency Force, which aimed to resolve the Suez Crisis. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for efforts in peacekeeping and international diplomacy.
Continue ReadingHugh Blair
Scottish minister and author of sermons
Born
April 7th, 1718 308 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1800 225 years ago — 82 years old
An important figure in the Church of Scotland, this individual served as a minister and became a prominent preacher. Recognized for preaching influential sermons, he also contributed to the literary world as an author. His works focused on eloquence and moral improvement. Notably, he published a series of sermons that reflected his views on ethics and religion, which gained significant attention during his time. Through his writings, he engaged with contemporary issues and offered insights into moral philosophy and public discourse.
Continue ReadingJulian Tuwim
Polish poet and playwright, wrote 'The Locomotive'
Born
September 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1953 72 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1894, a significant figure in Polish literature, especially noted for works in poetry, drama, and children's literature. Tuwim was part of the Skamander group of poets, which aimed to revitalize Polish poetry. His poetry often combined humor with serious themes, making it accessible yet profound. Notably, 'The Locomotive' became a classic in Polish children's literature. Active in the interwar period and later during World War II, Tuwim contributed to the Polish cultural scene, writing plays and poetry that resonated with the challenges of his time. Following the war, he continued to write and support the arts until his death in 1953.
Continue ReadingChris Bell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, Big Star
Born
January 12th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1978 47 years ago — 27 years old
A prominent figure in the power pop genre, this musician formed the band Big Star in the early 1970s, which gained critical acclaim despite limited commercial success. The band's albums, particularly 'No Sex' and 'Radio City', featured innovative songwriting and arrangements and have since influenced many artists. Following Big Star, this artist pursued a solo career, producing the album 'I Am the Cosmos', which showcased songwriting skills and melodic sensibility. His work garnered recognition retrospectively, influencing future generations in alternative rock.
Continue ReadingKay Boyle
American novelist and short story writer
Born
February 19th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1992 33 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1902, this individual dedicated a significant portion of life to writing and education. Educated at the University of Washington and the Sorbonne, contributions to literature included novels, short stories, and essays. Many works reflected concerns about social justice and human rights, and some gained attention in the literary community. The individual also taught writing at universities, influencing a generation of writers with a focus on narrative techniques and innovative forms.
Continue Reading