Sacvan Bercovitch

Author and critic of American literature

Sacvan Bercovitch - Thinkers & Philosophers born 1933
Born

1933
93 years ago

Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Canada

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the study of American literature as an author, critic, and academic. Explored the role of Puritanism in American thought and literature. His work often centered around themes of identity and cultural representation. Served as a professor at several prestigious universities, influencing many students and scholars in the field. Published influential texts that examined the complexities of the American literary canon.

Authored 'The Puritan Origins of the American Mind'

Edited 'The Cambridge History of American Literature'

Developed the concept of the American literary marketplace

Other People Who Died on December 9th

Mary Leakey

Archaeologist known for early hominids
Born
February 6th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old

An archaeologist and anthropologist, significant contributions to the discovery of early hominid fossils were made. Conducted extensive research at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, where the first fossilized footprints of early hominids were discovered. Developed techniques for studying human evolution and excavated several notable prehistoric sites. Authored numerous publications detailing findings in paleoanthropology, influencing the field's development.

Continue Reading

Robert Baldwin

Canadian politician and lawyer
Born
May 12th, 1804 222 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1858 167 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the third Premier of Canada West from 1848 to 1851. Played a significant role in the introduction of responsible government in Canada. Contributed to the establishment of public education in Canada West. Advocated for civil liberties and democratic reforms.

Continue Reading

Johann Reinhold Forster

German botanist and pastor, known for Arctic research
Born
October 22nd, 1729 296 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1798 227 years ago — 69 years old

A German botanist and pastor contributed significantly to the field of botany during the 18th century. Conducted extensive research on plant species, particularly during an expedition to the Arctic in 1772 alongside James Cook. Published several works on botany, exploring the flora of various regions. Served as a professor at the University of Halle and influenced the study of natural history through education and his writings.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand Brunetière

French literary critic and scholar
Born
July 19th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1906 119 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent literary critic and scholar specializing in French literature, contributions focused on the analysis of drama and novels during the late 19th century. He served as a professor at the Collège de France, influencing many through lectures and publications. Significant works include 'Les Écrivains de la France' which outlined the achievements of French novelists and 'L'Évolution de la poésie lyrique en France' examining the development of French lyric poetry. Brunetière played a key role in the establishment of the modern examination of literature, advocating for the importance of literary criticism in understanding cultural currents.

Continue Reading

Eva Nansen

Norwegian mezzo-soprano and skiing pioneer
Born
December 17th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1907 118 years ago — 48 years old

Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a prominent mezzo-soprano singer achieved recognition in the world of opera and concert performances. Her contributions to the art of singing were complemented by notable performances in various opera houses across Europe. Additionally, the individual made significant strides in promoting women's skiing, advocating for women's participation in the sport at a time when it was largely male-dominated. Through participation in ski events and visibility in the skiing community, the individual helped facilitate the acceptance of women in competitive skiing.

Continue Reading

Julio Terrazas Sandoval

Bolivian cardinal and religious leader
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and as the Archbishop of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Contributed to the spiritual and social life of Bolivia, overseeing various diocesan activities and initiatives. Participated in the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, marking a significant moment in the church's history. Dedicated efforts to address social issues within Bolivia, promoting education and community development.

Continue Reading