Alexander Hamilton (January 11, 1755 or 1757)
Alexander Hamilton was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and a key figure in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. He served as the first Secretary of the Treasury under President George Washington and played a crucial role in establishing the nation’s financial system. Hamilton’s contributions include writing the majority of the Federalist Papers and creating the first national bank. An intriguing detail about him is that he was killed in a duel with Aaron Burr in 1804.
Eva Hesse (January 11, 1936)
Eva Hesse was a German-born American sculptor known for her innovative work in post-minimalist art. Her sculptures often incorporated unconventional materials, such as latex and fiberglass, and she played a significant role in the art scene of the 1960s. Hesse’s work is recognized for its exploration of form and materiality. An intriguing detail about her is that despite her relatively short career, her influence on contemporary art has been profound.
Mary J. Blige (January 11, 1971)
Mary J. Blige is an American singer-songwriter and actress, known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.” She has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, for her contributions to R&B and hip-hop music. Blige’s albums, such as “What’s the 411?” and “My Life,” are considered classics in the genre. An intriguing detail about her is that she has also found success as an actress, receiving critical acclaim for her role in the film “Mudbound.”
Naomi Judd (January 11, 1946)
Naomi Judd is an American country music singer and songwriter, best known as one half of the mother-daughter duo The Judds, along with her daughter Wynonna Judd. The Judds achieved numerous country music hits in the 1980s and ’90s. Naomi Judd is also recognized for her advocacy work on mental health issues. An intriguing detail about her is that she had a successful solo career after The Judds disbanded.
Albert Hofmann (January 11, 1906)
Albert Hofmann was a Swiss chemist known for discovering the psychedelic effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). He synthesized LSD in 1938 and accidentally experienced its effects in 1943, an event known as Bicycle Day. Hofmann’s research contributed to the understanding of hallucinogenic substances and their potential applications. An intriguing detail about him is that he advocated for the careful and controlled use of psychedelics in scientific and therapeutic contexts.
Amanda Peet (January 11, 1972)
Amanda Peet is an American actress known for her roles in films such as “The Whole Nine Yards” and “Something’s Gotta Give,” as well as the television series “Togetherness.” She has received critical acclaim for her performances and has been involved in various film and theater projects. An intriguing detail about her is that she is an ambassador for the humanitarian organization CARE.
Ezra Cornell (January 11, 1807)
Ezra Cornell was an American businessman and philanthropist, best known for founding Western Union and being a co-founder of Cornell University. He played a significant role in the development of the telegraph industry and the expansion of the American railroad system. An intriguing detail about him is that he endowed Cornell University with a substantial gift, emphasizing the importance of practical education.
Alice Paul (January 11, 1885)
Alice Paul was an American suffragist, feminist, and women’s rights activist. She played a key role in the women’s suffrage movement and was instrumental in the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Paul also advocated for the Equal Rights Amendment and was a driving force in the fight for gender equality. An intriguing detail about her is that she co-founded the National Women’s Party.
Phyllis Logan (January 11, 1956)
Phyllis Logan is a Scottish actress known for her role as Mrs. Hughes on the television series “Downton Abbey.” She has had a successful career in film, television, and theater, receiving critical acclaim for her performances. An intriguing detail about her is that she won a BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer for her role in the film “Another Time, Another Place.”
Jean Chretien (January 11, 1934)
Jean Chretien is a Canadian politician who served as the 20th Prime Minister of Canada from 1993 to 2003. He played a key role in addressing issues such as the Quebec sovereignty movement and implementing budgetary reforms. Chretien is known for his folksy and straightforward political style. An intriguing detail about him is that he is bilingual, fluent in both English and French.
Famous People Born January 11
