Ruby Bridges

Civil rights activist and icon

Ruby Bridges - Civil rights activist and icon
Born

September 8th, 1954
70 years ago

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

In 1960, Bridges became the first African American child to integrate an all-white elementary school in the South. At just six years old, attended William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans amidst significant hostility and protests. The event was a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, symbolizing the fight for school desegregation. Bridges displayed remarkable courage and resilience during this challenging period, with her actions contributing to broader efforts for racial equality in education. Later in life, she dedicated efforts to advocating for education and civil rights.

First African American child to integrate an all-white school

Subject of the iconic Norman Rockwell painting 'The Problem We All Live With'

Established the Ruby Bridges Foundation

Other People Born on September 8th

John Samuel Bourque

Canadian colonel and politician
Born
September 8th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1974 51 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a colonel in the Canadian military and held significant political positions. Active in local and provincial politics, contributed to community development. Participated in military operations during key conflicts. Played a role in shaping policies at various governmental levels.

Continue Reading

Jean-Louis Barrault

French actor and director of 'Les Enfants du paradis'
Born
September 8th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1994 31 years ago — 83 years old

An influential French actor and director, played a prominent role in the French theatrical landscape in the 20th century. Led the acclaimed theater company, the Théâtre de la Comédie-Française, known for its distinguished productions. Directed and starred in 'Les Enfants du paradis', a classic French film that received critical acclaim upon its release. His contributions extended to various forms of theatrical performance including classical plays and modern works. Barrault's dedication to the arts helped in the revival of interest in French theatre during post-war France.

Continue Reading

Tiago Treichel

Brazilian footballer and defender
Born
September 8th, 1984 40 years ago

A Brazilian footballer played primarily as a defender. Began professional career with São Paulo FC, helping the team secure multiple championships. Later played for other clubs in Brazil and abroad, contributing experience in various leagues. Known for solid defensive skills and versatility on the field.

Continue Reading

Derek Barton

Chemist, Nobel Prize winner for chemistry
Born
September 8th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1998 27 years ago — 79 years old

An English-American chemist and academic, made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of molecular conformations. Successfully developed the concept of conformational analysis, which provided a better understanding of the shapes of molecules and their interactions. This work led to advancements in organic chemistry and biochemistry. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1987 for contributions to the development of chemical structure theory, especially regarding the influence of molecular structure on reactivity.

Continue Reading

Howard Dietz

American publicist and songwriter
Born
September 8th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1983 41 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent publicist and songwriter, created successful lyrics for many musicals and songs. Collaborated with various composers and produced memorable work during the early to mid-20th century. Contributed significantly to the Broadway scene and other entertainment forms, becoming a notable figure in the industry. Worked on projects that gained recognition and acclaim, cementing a legacy in American musical theater.

Continue Reading

Lars Nootbaar

Baseball player for St. Louis Cardinals
Born
September 8th, 1997 27 years ago

This baseball player, born in 1997, made a name playing as an outfielder in Major League Baseball (MLB). Drafted in 2018 by the St. Louis Cardinals, achieved significant recognition during the 2021 season, contributing to the team's performance. Promoting baseball in Japan, he played for the Samurai Japan team in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where the team secured victory. His strong batting skills and defensive capabilities have defined his career in the sport.

Continue Reading