Álvaro de Bazán
Spanish admiral and naval commander
Born
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
Spain
Links & References
Served as a prominent Spanish admiral during the 16th century, achieving significant military successes. Commanded the Spanish fleet against the Ottoman Empire and in various naval battles of the Mediterranean. Instrumental in the construction of the Spanish navy and established naval tactics that were influential in subsequent conflicts. Held the title of 1st Marquis of Santa Cruz, demonstrating both military prowess and noble status.
Commanded the Spanish navy at the Battle of Lepanto
Played a key role in the Spanish Armada
Established naval dominance in the Mediterranean
Other People Born on December 12th
Stand Watie
American Confederate general
Born
December 12th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
1871 155 years ago — 65 years old
Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Received appointment as the only Native American general in the Confederate forces. Led the Cherokee regiment in notable battles including the Battle of Pea Ridge and the Battle of Honey Springs. After the war, became a political leader in the post-war Cherokee Nation, influencing tribal governance.
Continue ReadingRussell Batiste Jr.
Funk and R&B drummer with Soulive
Born
December 12th, 1965 60 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 58 years old
A drummer renowned for contributions to the funk and R&B genres. Began professional career in the 1990s, performing with various artists and bands. Gained prominence as a member of the band Soulive, which fused jazz, funk, and soul elements, influencing the instrumental music scene. Worked with numerous celebrated musicians and bands, contributing to their recordings and live performances.
Continue ReadingNate Clements
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
December 12th, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) from 2001 to 2015. Started career with the Buffalo Bills, where significant contributions were made over four seasons. Later signed with the San Francisco 49ers, achieving Pro Bowl selections and winning Super Bowl XLVII. Concluded career with the Cincinnati Bengals, showcasing defensive skills and leadership.
Continue ReadingIolanda Balaș
Romanian high jumper Olympic champion
Born
December 12th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2016 9 years ago — 79 years old
Achieved significant success in high jump during the 1950s. Competed in international events representing Romania. Won a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Set multiple world records throughout her career, including a remarkable jump of 1.85 meters in 1961. Retired in 1965, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingOrlando Hudson
Baseball player, 2004 Gold Glove Award
Born
December 12th, 1977 48 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a second baseman from 2002 to 2014. Teams included the Montreal Expos, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago White Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, and San Diego Padres. Contributed to multiple playoff appearances and earned recognition for defensive skills. Achieved the Gold Glove Award in 2004, indicating excellence in fielding. Career statistics include a batting average of .273 with more than 1,000 hits during tenure.
Continue ReadingEdvard Munch
Norwegian painter, 'The Scream' creator
Born
December 12th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1944 82 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent figure in the Expressionist movement, the painter and illustrator focused on emotional experiences rather than physical reality. His most famous work, 'The Scream', exemplifies the exploration of anxiety and existential dread. This piece has become one of the most iconic images in the history of art. Munch's work often delved into themes of love, anxiety, and death, deeply influenced by his personal experiences and tragedies. He produced a variety of paintings, prints, and other artworks throughout his career, showcasing a distinct style characterized by bold colors and dynamic forms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 9th
Bill Haley
Rock and roll pioneer with 'Rock Around the Clock'
Born
July 6th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1981 44 years ago — 55 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist played a central role in the development of rock and roll music during the 1950s. Achieved widespread popularity with the hit single 'Rock Around the Clock', which became an anthem for the rock and roll era. Formed the band Bill Haley & His Comets, which gained fame not only in the United States but also internationally. Contributed significantly to the genre's evolution with an energetic style that blended rhythm and blues with country music.
Continue ReadingWalter Frederick Morrison
Inventor of the Frisbee
Born
January 23rd, 1920 106 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 90 years old
An American businessman invented the flying disc toy known as the Frisbee in the 1940s. Initially created as a cake pan, it became popular when its design was refined for recreational use. The toy gained widespread popularity in the 1960s, leading to the establishment of the Frisbee brand and various games associated with it. Morrison's invention has become a staple of outdoor play and has inspired numerous competitions and events around the world. The manufacturing and marketing of the Frisbee transformed the toy industry and created a new category of play.
Continue ReadingRowland Taylor
English priest and martyr
Born
October 6th, 1510 515 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1555 470 years ago — 44 years old
Rowland Taylor served as a priest during the 16th century, advocating for Protestant reforms within the Church of England. His clerical career was marked by his unwavering commitment to his faith despite the rising tension surrounding religious practices of the time. Taylor was arrested in 1555 for his beliefs and subsequently became a martyr when executed for heresy. His resolute stance against Catholic doctrine and his ultimate sacrifice made him a prominent figure in the history of the Protestant Reformation in England.
Continue ReadingJunnosuke Inoue
Japanese businessman and banker
Born
May 6th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1932 93 years ago — 62 years old
Established a prominent banking career and played a significant role in the growth of the Japanese banking industry during the early 20th century. Contributed to the development of various financial institutions and played a key role in shaping Japan's economic landscape. Involved in several banking ventures that facilitated trade and industry in Japan. Served as a leader guiding financial policies and practices during a transformative period for the country's economy.
Continue ReadingChick Corea
Jazz composer and pianist
Born
June 12th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, his career spanned over five decades. Contributed to the development of jazz fusion through innovative compositions and collaborations. Formed the influential band Return to Forever, blending jazz with rock, Latin, and classical elements. Experimented with various musical styles and worked with numerous notable musicians throughout his career. Corea's contributions to music earned various awards, including several Grammy Awards.
Continue ReadingGeorge "Gabby" Hayes
Actor in western films and television
Born
May 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1969 56 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor and singer, became prominent in the Western genre during the early to mid-20th century. Achieved fame through roles in films like 'Stagecoach' and 'The Trail of the Lonesome Pine'. Starred in numerous B-movies and became a familiar face for portraying sidekicks, particularly in films featuring stars such as John Wayne. Transitioned into television with roles in series like 'The Gabby Hayes Show', which showcased his personality and storytelling ability, further solidifying his popularity.
Continue Reading