Zygmunt Bauman
Polish sociologist and theorist
A prominent sociologist, one of the leading voices in contemporary social theory. Focused on issues such as modernity, postmodernity, consumerism, and the complexities of life in a fluid society. Authored several influential works, including 'Liquid Modernity', which critiques the rapid changes in society and their impact on individuals. Explored themes of identity, morality, and the implications of globalization. His scholarship provided frameworks to understand social cohesion in a world of increasing individualism.
Published 'Liquid Modernity'
Developed concepts of liquid modernity
Analyzed consumer culture
Other People Born on November 19th
James B. Sumner
Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 19th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1955 70 years ago — 67 years old
Significant contributions to enzymology and biochemistry occurred during an academic career. Achievements included demonstrating that enzymes could be crystallized, providing substantial evidence towards understanding their structure and function. Research focused on urease, leading to insights into enzyme mechanisms. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1946 for work in this field, recognized for pioneering techniques that advanced scientific understanding of catalysis.
Continue ReadingJack Dorsey
Businessman, co-founder of Twitter
Born
November 19th, 1976 49 years ago
Co-founded Twitter in 2006, which became a significant social media platform affecting communication and information dissemination. Played a pivotal role in developing Square, a financial services and mobile payment company, launched in 2009. Served as CEO of Twitter twice, from 2006 to 2008 and then from 2015 to 2021. Contributed to the evolution of social media by introducing innovative features and fostering digital discourse.
Continue ReadingTom Villard
Actor in 'Weird Science'
Born
November 19th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1994 31 years ago — 40 years old
An American actor gained recognition for roles in various television shows and films during the 1980s and 1990s. Most notably, appeared in the cult classic film 'Weird Science' as one of the lead characters. Villard also had a recurring role on the television series 'The Golden Girls' and participated in various made-for-TV movies. His work spanned across multiple genres, showcasing talents in comedic and dramatic roles, contributing to his popularity during that era. In addition to acting, Villard was involved in stage performances and demonstrated significant skills in improvisational comedy. His career continued until his passing in 1994.
Continue ReadingEleanor Audley
American actress and voice artist
Born
November 19th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1991 34 years ago — 86 years old
An actress associated with early television and animation. Gained popularity for voice roles in animated films produced by Disney, alongside live-action performances in television series. Featured prominently as the voice of Maleficent in 'Sleeping Beauty' and Lady Tremaine in 'Cinderella'. Had a significant career in radio and stage, contributing to various performances throughout the mid-20th century. Appeared in multiple television shows, leaving a mark on the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingReid Scott
Actor in 'Veep' and 'My Boys'
Born
November 19th, 1977 48 years ago
An American actor appeared primarily in television and film. Gained prominence for portraying Dan Egan in the HBO series 'Veep', which received critical acclaim and multiple awards. Featured as Greg in the TBS series 'My Boys', showcasing comedic talent. Acted in films such as 'The Kevin Hart Show' and 'The Last of the Good Guys'.
Continue ReadingFerdinand de Lesseps
French diplomat and Suez Canal builder
Born
November 19th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1894 131 years ago — 89 years old
A French diplomat and engineer, contributed significantly to the construction of the Suez Canal, which connected the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. The canal was completed in 1869 and marked a major advancement in global trade and maritime travel. De Lesseps was also involved in various diplomatic negotiations throughout his career, enhancing relations between France and other nations. His work on the canal demonstrated innovative engineering techniques and played a crucial role in transforming the economic landscape of the region.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 9th
Paul Koslo
German-Canadian actor in films and TV
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2019 7 years ago — 75 years old
A German-Canadian actor specialized in film and television. Achieved notable recognition for roles in 'The Omega Man' and 'The Last Chase'. Participated in various television series, contributing to shows such as 'The A-Team' and 'Knight Rider'. Career spanned several decades, portraying a variety of characters across different genres.
Continue ReadingAdrien-Marie Legendre
French mathematician and theorist
Born
September 18th, 1752 273 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1833 193 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in number theory and statistics. Developed Legendre polynomials and introduced the method of least squares. His work in number theory included the formulation of Legendre's conjecture concerning prime numbers. Authored influential texts on analysis and number theory, which became standard references in mathematics.
Continue ReadingAnne of Brittany
Queen consort of France
Born
January 25th, 1477 549 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1514 512 years ago — 36 years old
Served as queen consort of France through marriages to Charles VIII and Louis XII. Played a crucial role in the integration of Brittany into the French crown. Oversaw the growth of arts and architecture in France during the Renaissance. Actively supported the establishment of the 'Edict of Nantes' in 1598, providing tolerance for Protestants in France.
Continue ReadingW. Cleon Skousen
American author and political theorist
Born
1913 113 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2006 20 years ago — 93 years old
An academic authored significant works on American government and history, with a focus on the Constitution. Developed an influential multi-volume work that detailed the history of the United States, including political philosophy and its founding principles. Contributed to the establishment of several educational institutions and courses dedicated to teaching constitutional principles. Worked as a law enforcement officer and a political commentator, advocating for individual liberties and conservative values. Engaged in numerous public speaking events and published extensively in conservative publications.
Continue ReadingThomas Birch
Historian and author
Born
November 23rd, 1705 320 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1766 260 years ago — 60 years old
An English historian and author, contributed significantly to historical documentation and literature in the 18th century. Focused on compiling and editing important historical texts. Published works included various biographies and historical accounts, which became crucial references for scholars. Engaged in efforts to document and preserve the history of England and its notable figures.
Continue ReadingImi Lichtenfeld
Martial artist, creator of Krav Maga
Born
May 26th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1998 28 years ago — 87 years old
Born in Hungary, a martial artist, boxer, and gymnast developed Krav Maga, a self-defense system integrating techniques from various martial arts and boxing. Emigrated to Israel and became involved in training military and law enforcement personnel. The system emphasized practical defense against real-world threats, contributing to its widespread adoption across the globe. Established a training center in Israel, further promoting the discipline. His work laid a foundation for the evolution of modern self-defense.
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