Shneur Zalman

Rabbi and founder of Chabad

Shneur Zalman - Thinkers & Philosophers born 1745
Born

1745
281 years ago

Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Russia

Links & References

A prominent Russian rabbi and author, established the Chabad movement. The movement emphasized Jewish mysticism and outreach to Jews worldwide. Created the Tanya, a foundational text for the Chabad philosophy. His leadership contributed to the spread of Hasidism in Eastern Europe and laid the groundwork for future religious scholarship.

Founded the Chabad-Lubavitch movement

Authored the Tanya

Promoted Jewish mysticism and outreach

Other People Who Died on December 15th

Alp Arslan

Seljuk Sultan and military leader
Born
January 20th, 1029 997 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1072 953 years ago — 43 years old

Ruled as the second sultan of the Seljuk Empire from 1063 until 1072. Expanded the empire's territory significantly, securing victories against both Byzantine and Fatimid forces. His leadership during the Battle of Manzikert in 1071 led to a decisive defeat of Byzantium, paving the way for Turkish settlement in Anatolia. Alp Arslan was characterized by a commitment to Islamic unity and governance based on justice and equity.

Continue Reading

Paul Lévy

Mathematician and theorems in probability
Born
September 15th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1971 54 years ago — 85 years old

Contributions to probability theory included foundational work on stochastic processes and Brownian motion. Developed concepts that bear his name, such as Lévy processes. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and influenced the field through published works. In addition, introduced Lévy-Cramér theorem and Lévy continuity theorem, impacting theoretical and practical applications in mathematics.

Continue Reading

Charles Laughton

Actor and director, celebrated for 'Witness for the Prosecution'
Born
July 1st, 1899 126 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1962 63 years ago — 63 years old

An English-American actor and director, contributions to film and theater are notable. Laughton received acclaim for portraying complex characters, particularly in the film adaptations of literary works. Directed films showcasing his vision, particularly 'The Night of the Hunter'. His performance in 'Witness for the Prosecution' earned a nomination for an Academy Award, solidifying his status in cinematic history. Laughton's theater work included significant performances in London and New York, reflecting a deep commitment to the craft of acting.

Continue Reading

Louis Victor de Rochechouart de Mortemart

French nobleman and courtier
Born
1636 390 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1698 327 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a prominent figure in the French court during the reign of King Louis XIV. Played a significant role in the political and social life of France in the late 17th century. Held the title of Governor of the Province of Île-de-France. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and was involved in several court intrigues.

Continue Reading

Anatole Litvak

Film director of 'The Snake Pit'
Born
May 21st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1974 51 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Ukraine, a significant figure in American cinema, directing a variety of influential films. Early career included work in European theater and cinema before relocating to the United States. Gained recognition for directing 'The Snake Pit', which addressed mental health issues and featured a groundbreaking performance by the lead actress. Also directed various other successful films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the film noir genre and creating works that incorporated social themes.

Continue Reading

Heinz Wolff

Physiologist and engineer, Wolff's Periodic Table
Born
April 29th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old

A physiologist and engineer, contributed significantly to the fields of physiology and biomedical engineering. Served as a professor at Brunel University in London and was a prominent figure in promoting science education through television programs. Developed the Wolff's Periodic Table as a tool in psychophysics and engineering. His work focused on the relationship between physiology and engineering principles.

Continue Reading