Simone de Beauvoir
Philosopher and author of The Second Sex

Born
January 9th, 1908
117 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1986
38 years ago — 78 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
France
Links & References
A prominent French philosopher and writer, contributed significantly to existentialism and feminist theory. The publication of 'The Second Sex' in 1949 brought attention to the construction of women's roles in society and challenged traditional views on gender. Engaged in intellectual debates and maintained a lifelong partnership with philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, influencing the post-war cultural landscape in France. Wrote novels, essays, and criticisms, engaging with social, political, and ethical questions.
Authored 'The Second Sex'
Contributed to existentialist philosophy
Wrote the novel 'She Came to Stay'
Other People Born on January 9th
Félix-Gabriel Marchand
Served as the 11th Premier of Quebec from 1897 to 1898. Involved in the legislature for numerous years, holding the position of Conservative Party leader. Participated in various initiatives promoting education and transportation, significantly influencing provincial policy. Played a critical role in the negotiation of the 1898 Quebec Hydro Bill.
Continue ReadingLucas Leiva
Professional footballer spent the majority of career as a defensive midfielder. Began career at Grêmio in Brazil before transferring to Liverpool in 2007, where contributed to the team winning multiple domestic and international titles. Played a significant role in Liverpool's successes during his tenure, including reaching the UEFA Champions League final. Later joined Lazio in Italy, continuing to display strong performances in Serie A.
Continue ReadingJohn B. Watson
An influential psychologist, contributed to the establishment of behaviorism, a theory which emphasized observable behaviors over internal mental states. Developed the Little Albert experiment, demonstrating the principles of classical conditioning by conditioning a child to fear a white rat. Established the psychological school of thought that became predominant in the early 20th century, emphasizing the importance of environment in shaping human behavior. Held a professorship at Johns Hopkins University, influencing future generations of psychologists through teaching and published works.
Continue ReadingCaleb Strong
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 6th Governor of Massachusetts from 1800 to 1807 and again from 1812 to 1813. Played a key role in the Massachusetts Constitutional Convention in 1780. Participated in the debates surrounding the ratification of the United States Constitution. Had a significant influence on the state's early political landscape during the formative years of the United States.
Continue ReadingAlma Ziegler
Played professional baseball in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Competed in women's golf tournaments, including the 1947 U.S. Women's Open. Contributed to the popularization of women's sports during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingMarcus Peters
Born in 1993, this cornerback played college football at the University of Washington before entering the NFL. Drafted in 2015, played for the Kansas City Chiefs and later for the Los Angeles Rams and Baltimore Ravens. Selected for multiple Pro Bowls and recognized for strong defensive skills and playmaking ability. Known for numerous interceptions and defensive touchdowns throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 14th
Mstislav I of Kiev
Ruled as Prince of Kiev from 1125 until death in 1132. Directed military campaigns against Polish and German territories. Played a pivotal role in the eastern European power dynamics through strategic alliances and conflicts. Worked to maintain the autonomy of Kievan Rus amidst external pressures, including invasions and internal strife. Known for strengthening the influence of the Kievan state in the region.
Continue ReadingF. R. Leavis
An influential English educator and literary critic. Contributed significantly to literary criticism and education in the 20th century. Emphasized the importance of close reading and the moral dimension of literature. Edited and contributed to various literary journals, championing modern English literature and criticism.
Continue ReadingGeorge Frideric Handel
Born in Germany, Handel became a prominent composer who settled in England. His work encompassed various musical forms, including operas, oratorios, and instrumental compositions. Handel's most acclaimed piece, the oratorio Messiah, premiered in 1742 and has since become a cornerstone of classical choral music. His contributions to the development of English opera were notable, with productions such as Rinaldo and Giulio Cesare. Handel's Water Music suite, originally performed on the Thames River for King George I in 1717, remains popular in concert repertoire. Handel's influence extended beyond his lifetime, significantly shaping the evolution of Western classical music.
Continue ReadingRichard Armstedt
A philologist, historian, and educator focused on Slavic studies and language. Authored important works on the relationship between Slavic and Germanic languages. Contributed significantly to the academic field of philology through teaching and research. Engaged in educational reforms that enhanced the study of languages in Germany. Worked as a professor at various institutions and published extensively on Slavic linguistics.
Continue ReadingRachel Carson
An influential biologist and author concentrated on the study of environmental science. Authored the groundbreaking book Silent Spring, which highlighted the dangers of pesticides, particularly DDT, to the environment and human health. Advocated for the conservation of natural resources and the responsible use of chemicals in agriculture. Her work sparked worldwide environmental movements and led to policy changes in pesticide regulation.
Continue ReadingDon Ho
A prominent figure in Hawaiian music, this individual gained widespread recognition through the hit song 'Tiny Bubbles'. Regular performances at the landmark Honey's nightclub in Waikiki contributed to the popularity of Hawaiian music during the 1960s and 1970s. A successful television personality, appeared on various shows, including his own series, 'The Don Ho Show'. The music career spanned multiple decades, showcasing the ukulele and traditional Hawaiian sounds.
Continue Reading