Albert Pujols
Baseball player, three-time MVP
A Dominican-American baseball player with a professional career spanning over two decades. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals, Los Angeles Angels, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Achieved significant success in Major League Baseball, winning two World Series titles with the Cardinals in 2006 and 2011. Experienced extensive success individually, capturing three Most Valuable Player Awards between 2005 and 2008. Developed a reputation as one of the most prolific hitters in the history of the sport, achieving milestones such as 700 career home runs and numerous All-Star selections.
Won two World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals
Achieved three MVP awards
Hit over 700 career home runs
Other People Born on January 16th
Clement Greenberg
Art critic and Modernist theorist
Born
January 16th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1994 31 years ago — 85 years old
Contributions to the field of art criticism established a foundation for understanding Modernist art. Promoted Abstract Expressionism, influencing key artists within the movement. Worked for various publications, including The Nation, where critiques on contemporary art were widely read. Authored influential essays that shaped art criticism, notably 'Avant-Garde and Kitsch,' which argued for the authenticity of Modernist art against popular culture. Articulated the importance of medium specificity in painting, which became a central tenet in art discussions.
Continue ReadingAnthony Denny
English politician and courtier
Born
January 16th, 1501 524 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1549 476 years ago — 48 years old
Served as a prominent courtier and Member of Parliament during the reign of King Henry VIII. Held the position of Chief Gentleman of the Privy Chamber and was involved in key decisions related to state affairs. Played a significant role in the dissolution of the monasteries and managed royal household matters. Involved in political intrigues typical of the Tudor court, Denny navigated various power struggles and the shifting loyalties of the time.
Continue ReadingRobert R. Hitt
American lawyer and politician, Assistant Secretary of State
Born
January 16th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1906 119 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 13th United States Assistant Secretary of State from 1893 to 1895 under President Grover Cleveland. Played a key role in diplomatic affairs during a time of significant political change in the United States. Engaged in various legal practices before transitioning to politics, influencing policy and governance at national levels. Was involved in the Democratic Party and contributed to the shaping of foreign relations and policy-making.
Continue ReadingRobert W. Service
Poet and author of The Cremation of Sam McGee
Born
January 16th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1958 67 years ago — 84 years old
Born in England and later immigrated to Canada, a poet and author emerged as a prominent literary figure in the early 20th century, particularly associated with the Yukon Gold Rush. Service wrote about the rugged life and landscapes of the North, capturing the spirit of frontier life. His most famous poem, 'The Cremation of Sam McGee,' gained widespread acclaim and remains a classic of Canadian literature. Service's work often reflected themes of adventure, nature, and the hardships of life in the Canadian wilderness, solidifying his reputation as a voice of the Yukon.
Continue ReadingFulgencio Batista
Cuban politician and military leader
Born
January 16th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a colonel in the Cuban army and held the position of President of Cuba from 1940 to 1944 and again from 1952 until 1959. Initially came to power through a military coup, Batista implemented several social and economic reforms during his first term. His second term was marked by repression and corruption, leading to widespread opposition. Eventually, Fidel Castro's revolutionary movement resulted in Batista fleeing Cuba in January 1959.
Continue ReadingStephan Lichtsteiner
Footballer, UEFA Euro 2008 participant
Born
January 16th, 1984 41 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a right-back. Started his career at Grasshopper Club Zürich, contributing to the team's success in the Swiss Super League. Later joined Lazio, winning the Coppa Italia in 2013. Transferred to Juventus, where he secured multiple Serie A titles and noted contributions to the team's performances in the UEFA Champions League. Represented the Swiss national team, featuring in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups.
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