Willibald Pirckheimer
German lawyer and Renaissance author
A prominent figure of the German Renaissance, extensively contributed to humanist literature. Engaged in legal practice while also serving as a patron of the arts. Collaborated with notable artists of the period, influencing the cultural landscape. Authored letters and treatises that showcased classical learning and the significance of education. Played a vital role in the promotion of humanist thought in Germany.
Played a significant role in the humanist movement
Authored influential letters and treatises
Contributed to the cultural discourse of the Renaissance
Other People Born on December 5th
Pope Julius II
Renaissance Pope, architect of St. Peter's
Born
December 5th, 1443 582 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1513 512 years ago — 69 years old
One of the most notable popes of the Renaissance era, this figure served as the 216th pope from 1503 until 1513. A patron of the arts, he commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and begin work on St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. His papacy is often referred to as the 'Warrior Pope' due to his military involvement in the Italian Wars, striving to reclaim territories for the Papal States. He also convened the Fifth Lateran Council to address various issues within the Church. His leadership marked a significant shift in the role of the papacy during the Renaissance, focusing on territorial expansion and cultural patronage.
Continue ReadingLevy Rozman
Chess International Master and YouTuber
Born
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago
An International Master in chess, contributed significantly to online chess content creation through streaming and YouTube. Focused on educating and entertaining chess enthusiasts with instructional videos and live gameplay. Engaged audiences with a blend of humor and strategic insights. Gained popularity for promoting chess through innovative digital platforms.
Continue ReadingPaul Kogerman
Chemist and academic specializing in chemistry
Born
December 5th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1951 74 years ago — 59 years old
Born in Estonia, a chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of chemistry. Kogerman focused on organic chemistry and authored numerous scholarly articles. His work mainly revolved around the study of phenolic compounds and their derivatives. Throughout his career, he held various academic positions and was involved in scientific research that enhanced the understanding of chemical processes. Kogerman's contributions were crucial in advancing research methodologies in Estonia and beyond.
Continue ReadingEsther Borja
Cuban soprano and actress
Born
December 5th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 100 years old
A prominent soprano and actress from Cuba, distinguished for contributions to opera and theater during the 20th century. Significant performances included roles in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'La Traviata'. Her career spanned decades, captivating audiences both in Cuba and internationally. Borja was celebrated for her vocal talent and artistry, becoming a notable figure in the cultural landscape of Cuban music. She also participated in various theatrical productions, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
Continue ReadingHelen Dettweiler
American golfer and U.S. Women's Open winner
Born
December 5th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1990 35 years ago — 75 years old
Helen Dettweiler was an American golfer who achieved significant success in women's golf during the mid-20th century. Born in December 1914, Dettweiler began competing in amateur tournaments and quickly rose to prominence. She won the 1943 U.S. Women's Open, which solidified her status in the sport. In addition to her U.S. Women’s Open victory, she was a member of the victorious American team at the Curtis Cup in 1948. Throughout her career, Dettweiler competed in numerous national and international tournaments, contributing to the growing popularity of women's golf in the United States.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Cabot Agassiz
Philosopher, co-founder of Radcliffe College
Born
December 5th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1907 118 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1822, a distinguished philosopher and academic, contributed significantly to women's education by co-founding Radcliffe College in 1879. This institution became a vital part of Harvard University, providing higher education opportunities for women. Promoted scientific education and participated in various academic discussions related to the sciences. Engaged in writing and compiling educational materials, specifically focusing on natural history, which reflected the interests of the time. Actively involved in social reform movements that advocated for women's rights and education. Organized activities that fostered learning among women and supported their entry into higher fields of study.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 22nd
Ma Rainey
American singer-songwriter of blues music
Born
April 26th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1939 86 years ago — 53 years old
A prominent figure in the development of the blues genre, this singer-songwriter advanced the sound and style of early 20th-century music. Rising to fame in the 1920s, performances included recordings that showcased powerful vocals and a rich emotional style. Known for stage presence, she garnered a reputation that would inspire future generations of artists. The influence on blues music remains significant as a leading figure associated with the genre's evolution.
Continue ReadingSimcha Rotem
last survivor of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 94 years old
Participated in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising during World War II. Fought against Nazi occupation and survived the brutal conflict. After the war, dedicated life to commemorating the events of the Holocaust and educating future generations about the atrocities. Engaged in various activities to preserve the memory of those who perished and the struggles of the Jewish people during this period.
Continue ReadingJean-Victor Poncelet
Mathematician known for projective geometry
Born
July 1st, 1788 237 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1867 158 years ago — 79 years old
A mathematician and engineer, contributions largely centered around projective geometry. Pioneered the concepts of duality and the principle of continuity in geometry. Served as an officer in the French army and participated in the Napoleonic Wars. After being captured, imprisonment in Russia prompted introspection and work on mathematical theories. Authored 'Traité des propriétés projectives des figures,' which became a significant text in mathematics. Believed to have influenced future developments in geometry and algebra, establishing a foundation for further research in these fields.
Continue ReadingPaddy Ashdown
British politician and soldier
Born
February 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a British soldier in the Royal Marines and later became a prominent politician. Co-founded the Liberal Democrat party in 1988 and served as its first leader until 1999. Represented Yeovil in the House of Commons and played a significant role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Worked on various international assignments, including the role of High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Continue ReadingPaul de Lagarde
German biblical scholar and orientalist
Born
1827 199 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1891 134 years ago — 64 years old
Contributed significantly to biblical studies and Oriental languages. Focused on the critical examination of biblical texts and their historical context. Advocated for the importance of Hebrew and Aramaic in biblical research. Served as a professor at the University of Halle, where major works on biblical criticism and Oriental studies were produced.
Continue ReadingDesmond Hoyte
Guyanese politician and President
Born
March 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the President of Guyana from 1985 to 1992 after holding various ministerial positions. Initially a member of the People's National Congress, took office following the death of the previous president. Implemented economic reforms and attempted to transition the country towards a free-market economy. Focused on improving international relations and fostering diplomatic ties with other nations. Played a significant role in the non-aligned movement and represented Guyana in several international forums.
Continue Reading