Alberto Vargas
Painter and illustrator of pin-up art
Born in Peru, this artist gained prominence in the United States as a painter and illustrator. Vargas became renowned for his pin-up art, which featured idealized depictions of women. His style combined techniques from classical painting with modern illustration. Working with various publications, he created iconic imagery that defined the pin-up genre, particularly during the mid-20th century. Throughout his career, Vargas contributed cover illustrations to magazines such as Esquire and Life, showcasing glamorous models and actresses. The artistry was marked by its sensuality and attention to detail, securing a place in American pop culture.
Created iconic pin-up art for Esquire magazine
Developed a unique painting style that mixed classical and modern techniques
Illustrated for Life magazine, featuring prominent models
Other People Born on February 9th
Raul Martirez
Filipino Roman Catholic prelate
Born
February 9th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 86 years old
Ordained as a priest in the Roman Catholic Church in 1964, served in various capacities within the ecclesiastical community. Appointed as bishop in 1987, and later became an archbishop. Contributed to the spiritual leadership of the church in the Philippines, emphasizing pastoral care and community service.
Continue ReadingDioner Navarro
Baseball catcher, All-Star selection
Born
February 9th, 1984 41 years ago
Played Major League Baseball primarily as a catcher. Made his debut in 2004 and had stints with teams including the New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays, and Toronto Blue Jays. Achieved All-Star status in 2008 as a member of the Rays and contributed to the team's postseason efforts. Throughout his career, known for solid defensive skills and a reliable batting average.
Continue ReadingK. J. McDaniels
Basketball player and NBA player
Born
February 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Played college basketball at Clemson University before entering the NBA. Selected in the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. Competing as a shooting guard and small forward, McDaniels was known for his defensive abilities and athleticism. Had a stint with the Houston Rockets and played in the NBA G League, continuing to showcase skills in professional basketball.
Continue ReadingJalen Green
Basketball player, NBA rookie standout
Born
February 9th, 2002 23 years ago
Professional basketball player entered the NBA in 2021. Drafted second overall by the Houston Rockets. Played college basketball for the G League Ignite, showcasing exceptional scoring ability and athleticism. Made an immediate impact in the league, earning a reputation for his explosive playing style and scoring prowess. Recognized as one of the top young talents in basketball.
Continue ReadingNigel Dawes
Ice hockey player with the Calgary Flames
Born
February 9th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, a professional ice hockey player participated in the NHL, including stints with the Calgary Flames and the New York Rangers. Debuted in 2006 and played primarily as a forward. After leaving the NHL, continued a successful career in various leagues, including contributions to teams in Europe and Asia. Dawes was also part of the Kazakhstani national team, representing Kazakhstan in international competitions.
Continue ReadingDespina Papamichail
Greek tennis player with Grand Slam appearance
Born
February 9th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, a tennis player represented Greece in international competitions. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 150 in 2019. Competed in various Grand Slam tournaments including the Australian Open and French Open, showcasing talent on both the ITF and WTA tours. Participated in the women's doubles category as well, contributing to Greece's efforts in tennis.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Rita Levi-Montalcini
Neurologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 103 years old
Completed medical studies and began research in neurobiology. Conducted pioneering work on nerve growth factor, leading to significant advancements in understanding nervous system development and function. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1986 for discoveries regarding growth factors. Served as a professor of neurobiology at Washington University in St. Louis and received numerous honors and accolades throughout her career in academia and research.
Continue ReadingJohnny Orr
Basketball coach, Iowa State Cyclones
Born
June 10th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
Began coaching career in the 1950s at Michigan, leading the Wolverines to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Transitioned to Iowa State, resurrecting the program and achieving significant success in the 1980s. Under tenure, the team reached notable postseason tournaments, including the NCAA tournament. Renowned for developing talent and his coaching philosophy, contributing to the future success of numerous players.
Continue ReadingWang Shenzhi
Founder of the Min Kingdom
Died
December 30th, 925 1100 years ago — None years old
Founded the Min Kingdom in 909 during the chaotic Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Established a regime that maintained a level of independence from the central authorities of the time. Set the groundwork for the regional governance of the area now known as Fujian Province in China. Governed until death in 925, shaping local politics and culture during his reign.
Continue ReadingAlfred North Whitehead
Mathematician and philosopher of science
Born
February 15th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 78 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and philosophy. Co-authored the seminal work 'Principia Mathematica' with Bertrand Russell, which laid foundational aspects of mathematical logic. Developed process philosophy, emphasizing the processual nature of reality and the interconnectivity of all entities. Served in various academic roles, including at Harvard University, influencing future generations of scholars.
Continue ReadingMaximilian III Joseph
Elector of Bavaria, significant ruler
Born
March 28th, 1727 298 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1777 248 years ago — 50 years old
Served as Elector of Bavaria from 1745 until 1777. As a ruler, focused on consolidating power and enhancing the administration of the electorate. Implemented reforms that improved the financial situation and developed the region's infrastructure. Fostered the arts and culture, supporting figures like the composer Leopold Mozart. Held an important role in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during his reign, navigating relations with neighboring states.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Occhialini
Physicist and academic with major findings
Born
December 5th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1993 32 years ago — 86 years old
Born in Italy and later became a French citizen, significant contributions were made to the field of particle physics. Engaged in research at CERN and the University of São Paulo, collaborating on numerous experiments. Discovered the existence of the positron and researched cosmic rays. Also contributed to advancements in the understanding of particle interactions.
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