Roger J. Traynor
Chief Justice of California

Born
February 12th, 1900
125 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1983
42 years ago — 83 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as the 23rd Chief Justice of California from 1964 to 1970. Contributed to the legal framework of the state through several landmark rulings. Held a professorship in law at the University of California, Berkeley. Additionally, authored multiple influential opinions that shaped California law, particularly in the areas of torts and criminal justice.
Served as Chief Justice of California
Influenced legal principles in tort law
Taught law at the University of California, Berkeley
Other People Born on February 12th
Hong Myung-bo
Played as a central defender in South Korea's national football team and had a significant role in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, where South Korea reached the semifinals. Served as captain during the tournament and is widely regarded for leadership on the field. Transitioned to a management career after retiring, including leading the South Korean national team in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingCharles Pinot Duclos
Famed for contributions to literary criticism and narrative prose, this author published works that reflected on society in the 18th century. Some writings offered keen observations of the cultural and philosophical trends of the time. His essays and commentaries often engaged with the ideas of the Enlightenment, addressing themes of morality and human behavior. The text "The History of the French Literature" became a significant publication that influenced understanding of literary criticism during that period.
Continue ReadingHussein Onn
Served as the third Prime Minister of Malaysia from 1976 to 1981. Played a significant role in the nation's development following its independence. Established various policies aimed at promoting economic growth and national unity. Left office due to health reasons, and his tenure was marked by a focus on moderation and inclusivity in governance.
Continue ReadingJan Swammerdam
Contributions to the study of insects and biological processes occurred through meticulous observation and dissection. Developed techniques for microscopic examination that advanced the knowledge of insect anatomy and physiology. Pioneered the use of the microscope for biological research, laying groundwork for future entomology. Observed metamorphosis and provided insights into the life cycles of insects.
Continue ReadingFriedrich de la Motte Fouqué
An influential writer during the Romantic era, contributed significantly to German literature. Best recognized for the poetic novella "Undine," which tells the tale of a water nymph who desires a human soul. This work combined elements of folklore and fantasy, influencing various later adaptations in literature and arts. Also engaged in writing historical novels, some of which focused on medieval German themes. His writings reflect themes of love, nature, and the supernatural, characteristic of the Romantic movement.
Continue Reading13th Dalai Lama
The 13th Dalai Lama served as the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and the political leader of Tibet from 1895 until 1933. In 1904, faced with British military intervention, he fled to India, returning to Tibet in 1909. His reign was marked by significant reforms in Tibetan society, including modernization efforts and the establishment of a centralized administration. Advocated for Tibetan autonomy amidst growing tensions with China and sought international support for Tibetan independence. He also emphasized education and health reforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 14th
Ernst Kummer
Contributed significantly to algebraic number theory, particularly in the development of the theory of ideals. Served as a professor at various universities, including the University of Berlin. Published important works that advanced the understanding of algebra and number theory, including investigations on the properties of hypergeometric functions. Introduced the notion of Kummer extension and provided foundational work that influenced future mathematicians in the field.
Continue ReadingLou Criger
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1892 to 1910. He spent significant time with teams such as the St. Louis Browns and the Boston Red Sox. Managed the Red Sox from 1907 to 1908. Contributed to the team's success during a formative period in baseball history.
Continue ReadingWalter Rauff
Served as an SS officer during World War II, holding various positions within the Nazi regime. Played a significant role in the implementation of deportation and extermination policies. Involved in the development of mobile gas vans used for mass executions, contributing to the atrocities of the Holocaust. After the war, fled Europe and lived in South America, where he continued to evade justice until his death.
Continue ReadingMagnus Hirschfeld
A physician and sexologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of human sexuality. Founded the Scientific-Humanitarian Committee in 1897, the first advocacy group for homosexual rights. Conducted pioneering research on sexual orientation and gender identity. Instrumental in developing the concept of sexual variance within society. Published numerous works including 'Sexuality and its Problems', challenging prevailing social norms and medical theories.
Continue ReadingFrederik VIII of Denmark
Ruled as King of Denmark from 1906 until 1912. During reign, emphasized constitutional reforms and modernization of the Danish monarchy. Played a significant role in the signing of the 1901 Constitution, which further solidified the parliamentary system in Denmark. Engaged in diplomatic relations and sought to strengthen Denmark's position in international affairs. Succeeded by his son, Christian X, after death in 1912.
Continue ReadingTom Wolfe
A prominent American journalist and author, this individual played a significant role in the development of New Journalism, combining literary techniques with traditional reporting. The work featured vivid storytelling and immersive reporting, often exploring counterculture and social issues in America during the 1960s and 1970s. Books such as 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test' chronicled the experiences of Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters, using a narrative style that blurred the lines between fiction and non-fiction. The author also published 'The Right Stuff', which focused on the early days of the U.S. space program and the test pilots involved. This individual received numerous accolades for literary contributions, cementing a legacy within American literature.
Continue Reading