Alvin Kraenzlein

American hurdler and Olympic champion

Alvin Kraenzlein - American hurdler and Olympic champion
Born

December 12th, 1876
148 years ago

Died

January 6th, 1928
97 years ago — 51 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American athlete in the early 20th century, competed in track and field events specializing in hurdles and long jump. Achieved significant success at the 1900 Paris Olympics, where victories were secured in the 110-meter hurdles, 400-meter hurdles, long jump, and 200-meter dash. These accomplishments marked a pivotal point in Olympic history, as becoming the first athlete to win four gold medals in a single Olympics. After work in coaching and education, contributions to the field of athletics continued.

Won four gold medals at the 1900 Paris Olympics

Became the first athlete to win four events in one Olympics

Other People Born on December 12th

Wilson Kipketer

Middle-distance runner with world records
Born
December 12th, 1972 52 years ago

A middle-distance runner, competed primarily in the 800 meters. Achieved success at international competitions, winning multiple medals including three World Championships and two Olympic medals. Set world records in the 800 meters, with times that remained unbeaten for years. Represented Kenya initially before switching allegiance to Denmark, where further achievements solidified a prominent athletics career. Retired from competitive athletics in 2005 after a successful career.

Continue Reading

Heiner Flassbeck

Economist and academic focusing on macroeconomics
Born
December 12th, 1950 74 years ago

Born in 1950, this economist specializes in macroeconomic theory and policy. He served as the Chief Economist at the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), working on issues related to international trade and development. This individual also held positions in the German Ministry of Finance, advising on economic strategy. As an academic, this economist authored several works on economic policies, offering insights into economic crises and growth strategies. Explorations in economic globalization and labor market dynamics characterized much of the professional focus.

Continue Reading

Adolf Bötticher

German journalist and historian
Born
December 12th, 1842 182 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1901 123 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent journalist and historian contributed significantly to German historical scholarship. Focused on the history of art, played a pivotal role in the establishment of art history as a respected discipline in Germany. Worked extensively on methodical approaches to historical research and analysis, publishing various articles and books that influenced future generations of historians and art scholars. Engaged in discussions on historical methodology and educational reform, promoting the importance of history in understanding cultural heritage.

Continue Reading

Billy Smith

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
December 12th, 1950 74 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player, contributed as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL). Played primarily for the New York Islanders and was instrumental in the team's four consecutive Stanley Cup victories from 1980 to 1983. Transitioned into coaching and management roles, influencing the sport at various levels. Available coaching experience included leading junior teams and contributing to management discussions at the NHL level.

Continue Reading

Sheree J. Wilson

American actress known for 'Dallas' role
Born
December 12th, 1958 66 years ago

An American actress gained prominence through roles in television series. Achieved significant recognition for portraying April Stevens Ewing on the long-running show 'Dallas' from 1986 to 1991. Also starred in the action films 'Missing in Action 2: The Beginning' and 'Hellmountain.' Other notable appearances included work on the series 'Walker, Texas Ranger' where played the character Alex Cahill alongside Chuck Norris. Throughout the career, depicted strong and dynamic characters, contributing to the rise of popular television drama in the 1980s and 1990s.

Continue Reading

Samuel Hood

Admiral and politician, 1st Viscount Hood
Born
December 12th, 1724 300 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1816 209 years ago — 91 years old

Served in several notable naval battles during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Earned recognition for leadership in the Battle of the Nile. Held various political offices, including a position in the House of Lords. Contributed to the Royal Navy's strategic successes against France and established a reputation for naval prowess.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 6th

Gordon Renwick

Ice hockey administrator and businessman
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2021 4 years ago — 86 years old

An influential figure in Canadian ice hockey, played a key role in the development of the sport at both amateur and professional levels. Served as president of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association and was integral in promoting the growth of youth hockey programs across Canada. Additionally, contributed to the management of professional teams and ensured the establishment of fair play standards and regulations within the sport. Focused on advancing the interests of ice hockey players and fostering a culture of excellence throughout the hockey community.

Continue Reading

José Ramón Fernández

Cuban revolution leader
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2019 6 years ago — 96 years old

Involvement in the Cuban Revolution led to significant changes in Cuba's political landscape. Played a key role in the 1959 overthrow of the Batista regime, contributing to the establishment of the socialist state under Fidel Castro. Held various governmental positions post-revolution, including Minister of Education, where efforts focused on literacy and educational reform. Served in numerous capacities in the Cuban Communist Party, leading initiatives aimed at consolidating power and influence in the region. Engaged in international diplomacy and solidarity missions across Latin America, advocating for revolutionary movements.

Continue Reading

Richard Henry Dana Jr.

American lawyer and politician
Born
August 1st, 1815 209 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1882 143 years ago — 66 years old

Engaged in law and politics, contributed significantly to legal reform and maritime issues. Authored the influential book 'Two Years Before the Mast,' providing insight into the life of sailors and the California coast during the 1830s. Served as a prominent advocate for sailor rights and marine labor reforms. Participated in the Massachusetts legislature and held various roles, including U.S. attorney for the District of California, focusing on improving legal structures and processes.

Continue Reading

Giacomo Beltrami

Italian explorer and author
Born
1779 246 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1855 170 years ago — 76 years old

An Italian jurist and explorer noted for exploring parts of North America in the early 19th century. Conducted extensive explorations in the regions around the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes. Authored several works on geography and exploration. Contributed to the understanding of North American geography of his time.

Continue Reading

Herbert Chapman

English football manager, Arsenal FC
Born
January 19th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1934 91 years ago — 55 years old

Managed Arsenal FC from 1925 to 1934, leading the team to significant successes in English football. Introduced innovative tactics and training methods that transformed the club and the game. Under management, Arsenal won two First Division titles in 1931 and 1933, and the FA Cup in 1930. Chapman's strategies laid the groundwork for future football management.

Continue Reading

A. J. Cronin

Scottish physician and author of novels
Born
July 19th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1981 44 years ago — 84 years old

A Scottish physician and author gained recognition for writing novels that explored the medical profession. Practitioner experience informed literary works, often depicting the struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by doctors. The most notable work, 'The Citadel,' published in 1937, highlighted the challenges within the healthcare system and influenced future medical reforms. Other significant novels include 'Hatter's Castle' and 'Key Above the Door,' both of which contributed to the author's prominence in the literary field. Cronin's works received widespread acclaim and adaptations into film and theatre, solidifying a legacy in both literature and popular culture.

Continue Reading