William Carstares

Scottish minister and academic leader

William Carstares - Scottish minister and academic leader
Born

February 11th, 1649
376 years ago

Died

December 28th, 1715
309 years ago — 66 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Scotland

Links & References

Born in Scotland in 1649, the individual pursued a career in ministry and academia. After experiencing persecution for his religious beliefs, he contributed significantly to the Presbyterian Church in Scotland. He served as a preacher and became the principal of the University of Edinburgh. His scholarship focused on theological education and church governance. The individual participated prominently in political affairs, advocating for the rights of Presbyterians during a tumultuous period for Scotland.

Served as principal of the University of Edinburgh

Significantly contributed to Presbyterianism

Other People Born on February 11th

Joseph L. Mankiewicz

Director of All About Eve and Cleopatra
Born
February 11th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1993 32 years ago — 83 years old

An American director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to the film industry during the 20th century. Major works include directing and writing 'All About Eve,' which won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Mankiewicz also directed and co-produced 'Cleopatra,' a film notable for its elaborate production and large budget. His storytelling often featured strong character development and intricate plots, earning him recognition as a skilled filmmaker. Mankiewicz’s approach combined both commercial success with critical acclaim.

Continue Reading

Philip Dunne

American screenwriter of impactful films
Born
February 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent screenwriter in American cinema during the mid-20th century, this individual crafted screenplays that showcased strong narratives and complex characters. Significant works include 'The Grapes of Wrath', a film adaptation of John Steinbeck's novel, and 'How Green Was My Valley', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Contributions to the film industry extended beyond screenwriting, as involvement in various projects spanned across decades, influencing the craft of storytelling in films.

Continue Reading

Emil Leon Post

Mathematician and logician
Born
February 11th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1954 71 years ago — 57 years old

Contributions included work on recursive functions and mathematical logic. Served as a professor at New York University and made significant advancements in the foundations of mathematics. Published numerous papers which helped to shape the field of logic. Developed the theory of generative grammars, influencing linguistics and computer science. His work on decision problems and formal systems was pivotal in the understanding of computation and algorithmic processes.

Continue Reading

Richard Mastracchio

Astronaut and space engineer
Born
February 11th, 1960 65 years ago

Born in 1960, a prominent American engineer and astronaut participated in multiple spaceflights as part of NASA's space program. Contributions include work on critical missions to the International Space Station (ISS). Served as a mission specialist and played significant roles in both assembly and repair tasks aboard the ISS. Achieved the milestone of completing four spaceflights, totaling over 200 days in space, reflecting extensive experience in human spaceflight operations. Actively engaged in the development and testing of various space technologies throughout a distinguished career with NASA.

Continue Reading

Mike Richards

Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
February 11th, 1985 40 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player who played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL). Debuted with the Philadelphia Flyers and contributed significantly to the team's success. Won the Stanley Cup in 2012 while playing for the Los Angeles Kings. Known for strong leadership skills and competitive play, Richards also represented Canada in international competitions, earning accolades on the world stage. His career included notable stints with several NHL teams, leaving a legacy recognized by fans and analysts alike.

Continue Reading

Else Lasker-Schüler

German poet and playwright, acclaimed work
Born
February 11th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1945 80 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in German literature, contributions included poetry, plays, and essays. Frequently associated with the Expressionist movement, gained recognition through works such as 'My Daughters' and 'The Land of the Living.' Lived during a turbulent period marked by World War I and the rise of the Nazi regime, resulting in exile and a significant shift in career. Work often explored themes of love, loss, and identity, resonating deeply with audiences. Continued to write until the end of life despite facing immense challenges as an exile.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 28th

Johann Friedrich Gronovius

German scholar and critic of plants
Born
September 8th, 1611 413 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1671 353 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1611, a prominent figure in botany and classical scholarship. Focused on the study of plants and contributed significantly to the field of natural history. Published various works that illustrated and classified plant species, establishing a framework for future botanical studies. Served as a professor and emphasized the importance of empirical observation in botany. Contributions helped shape the understanding of plant taxonomy during the early modern period.

Continue Reading

Billy Taylor

American jazz pianist and composer
Born
July 24th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2010 14 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed to the genre as a pianist, composer, and educator. Played an essential role in popularizing jazz through performances and recordings. Served as a long-time host of 'Billy Taylor's Jazz' on PBS, showcasing the music and its artists. Worked extensively in music education and was active in various cultural organizations promoting the arts.

Continue Reading

Vijayakanth

Indian actor and politician
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2023 1 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in Tamil cinema and politics, this individual served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Tamil Nadu. The film career began in the early 1990s, with notable performances in films such as 'Enthiran' and 'Kavalan'. Transitioning to politics, a political party was founded, and the individual contested in several elections, securing a seat in the Tamil Nadu assembly. The individual’s work spanned decades, with a reputation built in both film and political arenas.

Continue Reading

Eugenio Espejo

Ecuadorian physician and legal scholar
Born
1747 278 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1795 229 years ago — 48 years old

A pioneering figure in Ecuador's Enlightenment, contributions included advancements in medical knowledge and the legal framework of the nation. Shared insights on human anatomy and health practices, authored important texts on medicine and law, and championed intellectual freedom. Engaged in political and social reform, aiming for a better society.

Continue Reading

Nicholas Ambraseys

Seismologist and engineer
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2012 12 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed extensively to the field of seismology and earthquake engineering. Published numerous research papers that advanced understanding of seismic activity in Greece and the eastern Mediterranean region. Developed seismic codes and guidelines that influenced building standards in earthquake-prone areas. Conducted detailed studies and analyses of significant earthquakes, assisting in disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies.

Continue Reading

Vahan Hovhannisyan

Armenian soldier and politician
Born
August 16th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2014 10 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1956, a significant figure in Armenian military and political spheres. Served in various military capacities during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Later transitioned into politics and held important government positions, shaping policies and legislation in post-Soviet Armenia. Played a role in diplomatic efforts and national defense strategies.

Continue Reading