William B. Edmondson
American diplomat and ambassador
Born
1927
98 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as a diplomat specializing in African affairs. Held the position of United States Ambassador to South Africa from 1995 to 1998. Played a significant role during the transition to a post-apartheid government, working on diplomatic relations and initiatives aimed at fostering democracy and economic development in the region. Prior to the ambassadorship, worked in various capacities within the U.S. government and involved in international diplomacy throughout a distinguished career.
Served as U.S. Ambassador to South Africa
Promoted diplomatic relations between the U.S. and South Africa
Other People Who Died on December 5th
Alexander Atabekian
Anarchist publisher and physician
Born
February 2nd, 1869 156 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1933 92 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1869, this individual practiced medicine in Armenia while also engaging in anarchist publishing. Contributing to the political discourse of the time, active involvement in revolutionary movements characterized the career. Published significant works that advocated for anarchist principles, becoming a prominent figure in the intellectual circles of the early 20th century. This individual played a crucial role in the promotion of libertarian socialist ideas in the region. Later in life, faced repression due to political beliefs but continued to influence anarchist thought.
Continue ReadingEalhswith
Queen consort of Alfred the Great
Died
December 5th, 902 1123 years ago — None years old
Married Alfred the Great, King of Wessex, in 868. Played a significant role in the court's affairs and the development of Wessex during Viking invasions. Ealhswith was involved in the establishment of monasteries and supported educational initiatives. After the death of her husband in 899, she continued to influence the royal household.
Continue ReadingClair Cameron Patterson
Geochemist, developed uranium-lead dating
Born
June 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 73 years old
A geochemist made significant contributions to the field of geochronology. Developed the uranium-lead dating technique that established the age of the Earth as 4.5 billion years. Conducted research on lead contamination and its effects on human health. Advocated for environmental protection and helped raise awareness about lead in the environment, influencing public policy and regulation.
Continue ReadingGaspard Bauhin
Swiss botanist and author of Pinax.
Born
January 17th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1624 401 years ago — 64 years old
Significant contributions to botanical nomenclature and classification took place, establishing the basis for modern taxonomy. Published "Pinax Theatri Botanici," which listed more than 6,000 plants and proposed a systematic way to classify them. Acted as a professor of medicine at the University of Basel, where studies in botany and medicinal plants flourished. Developed extensive illustrations and descriptions of plants, influencing later naturalists and botanists.
Continue ReadingJackie Healy-Rae
Irish Politician and Public Representative
Born
March 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old
A significant figure in Irish politics, served as a member of the Dáil Éireann, representing the Kerry constituency. Elected in 1997, played a pivotal role in local governance and community issues. Contributed to discussions on rural development, healthcare, and transportation policies. Engaged with constituents through various initiatives aimed at addressing local concerns. Retained a strong presence in regional politics throughout his career.
Continue ReadingDave Brubeck
Jazz pianist and composer of 'Take Five'
Born
December 6th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributions spanned several decades, resulting in a fusion of contrasting musical elements. Advanced the popularity of jazz with unique time signatures and innovative improvisation techniques. Founded the Dave Brubeck Quartet, which gained widespread acclaim during the 1950s and 1960s. The album 'Time Out', featuring the hit 'Take Five', became one of the best-selling jazz albums, noted for its distinctive 5/4 time signature. Conducted numerous collaborations with orchestras and released over 50 albums throughout a prolific career.
Continue Reading