William O. Douglas
American jurist and Supreme Court Justice

Born
October 16th, 1898
126 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1980
45 years ago — 81 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1939 to 1975. Played a significant role in the development of constitutional law and civil rights. Authored numerous opinions that shaped the interpretation of the First Amendment and environmental law. Advocated for individual rights and a broad interpretation of the Constitution.
Served as Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court for 36 years
Authored landmark decisions on civil liberties
Played a crucial role in environmental protection laws
Other People Born on October 16th
John Mayer
An influential composer and musician, contributed significantly to Indian classical music. Worked extensively in film scoring and collaborative projects. Also engaged in music education, inspiring younger generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingCaroline Garcia
Accomplished a successful career in professional tennis, achieving a high ranking in singles and doubles. Began playing at a young age, quickly rising through the junior circuits. Won the prestigious 2016 Wuhan Open and the 2022 WTA Finals. Represented France in the Fed Cup and contributed to the team's success. Excelled in both singles and doubles formats, displaying versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingBob Weir
An influential figure in American rock music, a founding member of the Grateful Dead, contributed to the band’s distinctive sound with unique guitar playing and vocal harmonies. Played a significant role in the development of the jam band genre and has engaged in various side projects, including RatDog and Bob Weir & Wolf Bros. Released solo albums showcasing songwriting abilities and explored folk and country influences. Participated in numerous live performances and festivals, solidifying a legacy within the music community.
Continue ReadingDavid Zucker
This film director, producer, and screenwriter is recognized for contributions to the comedy genre. Early work included co-directing 'Airplane!' and creating the 'Naked Gun' film series. These productions defined a style of parody that has influenced many comedic films. Collaborations with Jim Abrahams and Jerry Zucker helped shape successful comedic narratives in Hollywood. Later projects continued to reflect a commitment to humor, maintaining a distinctive style.
Continue ReadingTodd Stashwick
An American actor and writer, he gained recognition for roles in television series and film. Best known for portraying various characters, most notably in the series '12 Monkeys' and 'The Riches'. Also contributed as a writer in multiple projects, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingRembrandt Bugatti
An influential sculptor specializing in animal figures, created bronze sculptures that captured the intricate details of various animals. Worked in a realistic style that portrayed both movement and emotion. Gained recognition in the early 20th century and became associated with the Art Nouveau movement. His sculptures were featured in numerous exhibitions, garnering admiration from art collectors and critics alike. Tragically passed away at a young age, leaving behind a significant legacy in the world of sculpture.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 19th
August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben
A poet and scholar from Germany, contributed significantly to the German literary landscape in the 19th century. Best recognized for the creation of the lyrics to the German national anthem, 'Das Lied der Deutschen'. Engaged in scholarly pursuits related to the German language and folk literature, Hoffmann von Fallersleben collected and published numerous folk songs. His works often explored themes of nationalism and cultural identity, reflecting the political atmosphere of his time. In addition to poetry, he wrote essays and critiques aimed at promoting the appreciation of German culture and heritage. His contributions remain a part of Germany's cultural history.
Continue ReadingHrant Dink
A journalist and activist focused on Armenian issues and human rights. Founded and edited the Armenian-Turkish newspaper Agos. Advocated for reconciliation between Turkey and Armenia. Sought to address the historical events of the Armenian Genocide. Faced numerous legal challenges and threats due to his views. Assassinated in 2007, prompting widespread protests and discussions on freedom of expression.
Continue ReadingRichard Levins
An American ecologist and geneticist contributed significantly to the fields of ecology and genetics. Focused on mathematical models in ecology, emphasizing the complexities of ecosystems and evolutionary processes. Co-authored the influential book 'The Dialectical Biologist' which explored the relationship between biology and environmental factors. Advocated for a holistic approach to scientific research, integrating multiple disciplines to understand ecological systems. Engaged with social issues affecting science and proposed that scientific practices should be informed by social context.
Continue ReadingThomas Hart Benton
A prominent American painter and muralist, this individual played a key role in the Regionalist art movement during the early 20th century. Training at the Chicago Art Institute and in Paris, this artist's works celebrated American life and culture through vivid colors and dynamic forms. Significant contributions included murals in various public buildings, and the artist also served as an educator, influencing a new generation of artists and educators. This individual’s artistic style reflected a fascination with the American landscape, history, and people.
Continue ReadingLiang Qichao
A prominent journalist, philosopher, and scholar, contributed significantly to modernization efforts in China during the late Qing dynasty and early Republic period. Advocated for constitutional reform and social change through writings and publications. Established influential journals that promoted new ideas and intellectual thought. Engaged in political activism and played a role in the reformist movement, emphasizing the importance of education and civic responsibility.
Continue ReadingCarl Reichenbach
Contributed to the fields of chemistry and philosophy, emphasizing the concept of odic force, which he proposed as a vital energy present in all living things. Developed theories on the properties of light and various organic compounds. Published works that explored the relationship between science and spirituality, influencing later esoteric movements. Engaged in extensive research on electromagnetic phenomena and its implications for understanding nature.
Continue Reading