Alcides Ghiggia
Footballer, 1950 FIFA World Cup winner
A talented footballer and manager, this individual played as a winger. Gained prominence playing for Peñarol and represented Uruguay in international competitions. Most notable achievement occurred during the 1950 FIFA World Cup, where Uruguay defeated Brazil in the final, culminating in one of the most celebrated moments in football history. Transitioned to management after retiring as a player, leading various clubs in Uruguay and abroad.
Scored the winning goal in the 1950 FIFA World Cup final
Played for Peñarol and the Uruguay national team
Other People Born on December 22nd
José Fonte
Footballer and UEFA Euro 2016 Champion
Born
December 22nd, 1983 42 years ago
This professional footballer played primarily as a central defender. Early career included stints at clubs such as Olhanense and Estoril. Later joined Southampton in 2010, earning promotion to the Premier League. Subsequently played for clubs like Crystal Palace and Lille. His national team career featured participation in UEFA Euro 2016, contributing to Portugal's championship victory. He played a key role in the defense throughout the tournament.
Continue ReadingSergei Aschwanden
Swiss martial artist champion
Born
December 22nd, 1975 50 years ago
Achieved significant success in martial arts, specializing in various disciplines. Competed at a high level in international tournaments, earning recognition for exceptional skills. Secured multiple titles reflecting expertise and dedication to the sport. Actively contributed to the martial arts community through teaching and mentorship, fostering the growth of new practitioners in the field.
Continue ReadingLasse Bengtsson
Swedish journalist and media figure
Born
December 22nd, 1951 74 years ago
A prominent Swedish journalist with a career spanning several decades in broadcasting and print media. Played a crucial role in delivering news and current affairs, influencing public understanding of key issues. Worked extensively with Swedish Television and radio, contributing to various programs that highlighted national and international events. Received recognition for journalistic integrity and dedication to factual reporting.
Continue ReadingViola Kibiwot
Kenyan middle-distance runner, Olympian
Born
December 22nd, 1983 42 years ago
Competed in middle-distance running events, primarily the 3000 meters steeplechase. Achieved significant success in international competitions including the World Championships and Olympic Games. Secured a gold medal at the World Championships in 2007, establishing a prominent presence in the sport. Also represented at the 2012 London Olympics, contributing to Kenya's strong tradition in athletics.
Continue ReadingGreg Finley
Actor in 'The Secret Life of the American Teenager'
Born
December 22nd, 1984 41 years ago
Began acting career with appearances in television series and films. Gained recognition for the role of Jack Pappas in the series 'The Secret Life of the American Teenager'. Also appeared in 'Star-Crossed' and 'Grey's Anatomy'. Finley has contributed to various television projects showcasing a range of characters. Work in the industry encompasses both drama and science fiction genres.
Continue ReadingJean Racine
French playwright and poet, author of Phèdre
Born
December 22nd, 1639 386 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1699 326 years ago — 59 years old
Racine became a prominent figure in French classical tragedy during the 17th century. He studied at Port-Royal des Champs, where he developed a strong interest in classical literature. Rising to fame with plays such as 'Andromaque' and 'Phèdre', Racine's works showcased emotional depth and complex characters. His tragedies often drew on themes from Greek mythology and classical history. In addition to writing plays, Racine held a position as a royal historiographer under King Louis XIV. His contributions to theatrical literature influenced subsequent generations of playwrights and established a standard for dramatic writing in France.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 16th
Johnny Winter
Blues guitarist and music producer
Born
February 23rd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1944, a prominent figure in the blues and rock music scenes. Became known for exceptional guitar skills and a distinct slide guitar technique. Released several influential albums throughout the career, including 'Johnny Winter' and 'Still Alive and Well'. Worked with various notable artists, enhancing the blues genre with a mix of rock elements. Continued to perform and record music until death in 2014.
Continue ReadingAlex Colville
Canadian painter and academic
Born
August 24th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent Canadian painter and academic, contributions spanned several decades, with works reflecting realism and themes of everyday life. Developed a distinctive style characterized by precision and clarity, often utilizing symbolism. Served as a professor at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, influencing a generation of artists. Several exhibitions featured artworks, including major retrospectives, highlighting the impact of visual narrative in art.
Continue ReadingCharles Sweeney
American general and pilot during WWII
Born
December 27th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2004 21 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a general in the United States Air Force and achieved prominence during World War II. Played a significant role in the Pacific theater, particularly in the delivery of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. His career spanned several decades, leading important missions and fostering developments in military aviation.
Continue ReadingBiz Markie
Rapper and actor from "Just a Friend"
Born
April 8th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in hip-hop, this artist gained recognition in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The debut album, "Goin' Off," released in 1988, showcased his distinctive style blending humor and storytelling. The single "Just a Friend" became a top hit in 1989, solidifying his place in music history. Apart from rapping, involvement in various television shows, including appearances on shows such as "Yo Gabba Gabba!" and "The Simpsons," highlighted versatility. Also known for producing music and mentoring upcoming artists, contributions to the genre remained relevant over the years.
Continue ReadingGeorge A. Romero
Filmmaker, director of 'Night of the Living Dead'
Born
February 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent filmmaker renowned for pioneering the zombie horror genre. Directed the influential film 'Night of the Living Dead' in 1968, which became a cultural landmark and critical success. Continued to direct several sequels, including 'Dawn of the Dead' and 'Day of the Dead'. His works often included social commentary, addressing issues such as consumerism and the human condition within horror narratives. Contributed to the development of independent horror cinema and influenced numerous filmmakers across the globe until his passing in 2017.
Continue ReadingGeorge Busbee
Governor of Georgia, lawyer
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2004 21 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 77th Governor of Georgia from 1975 to 1983. Focused on educational reforms and economic development during tenure. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Georgia International Convention Center. Advocated for major infrastructure improvements and was instrumental in the state's response to various challenges.
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