Andrew Johnson
17th President of the United States
Served as the 17th President of the United States from 1865 to 1869 after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Vice President and served as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee. Implemented a lenient Reconstruction policy following the Civil War, which aimed to reunite the nation. His presidency faced significant challenges, including conflicts with Congress and impeachment proceedings due to his opposition to Congressional Reconstruction efforts.
Served as Vice President under Abraham Lincoln
First U.S. President to be impeached
Implemented Reconstruction policies
Other People Born on December 29th
Steven Caulker
English footballer and defender
Born
December 29th, 1991 34 years ago
An English footballer played as a defender, primarily in the Premier League. Started youth career at Tottenham Hotspur and made first-team appearances. Played for clubs including Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers, and Southampton. Also represented the England national team at various levels, including under-21. In 2012, made senior debut for England in a friendly match against Sweden, scoring a goal. Known for strong aerial ability and defensive skills.
Continue ReadingVictor Osimhen
Footballer and Serie A top scorer
Born
December 29th, 1998 27 years ago
Born in Nigeria, this footballer began his career at Ultimate Strikers Academy before moving to Europe. Osimhen played for VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga and later joined Charleroi in Belgium, where he made a significant impact. A standout season in Ligue 1 with Lille led to him becoming the league's top scorer. Osimhen transferred to Napoli in 2020 for a club-record fee, where he continued to showcase exceptional talent, helping the team secure the Serie A title in 2023. Renowned for his speed and scoring ability, contributions have been crucial at various levels.
Continue ReadingRoss Lynch
American singer and actor known for Disney roles
Born
December 29th, 1995 30 years ago
An American singer and actor gained recognition as a member of the band R5, which released several albums and toured extensively. Achieved prominence through roles in Disney Channel's 'Austin & Ally' and 'Teen Beach Movie'. Pursued a successful career in acting and music separate from Disney, appearing in the Netflix series 'Chilling Adventures of Sabrina'.
Continue ReadingMadame de Pompadour
Mistress of King Louis XV
Born
December 29th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1764 261 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent figure at the French court, served as the official chief mistress of King Louis XV. Played a crucial role in the political and artistic life of France during the 18th century. Engaged in the patronage of the arts, contributing to the commissioning of various works and fostering the development of the Rococo style. Established a significant cultural salon that attracted many influential thinkers and artists of the time.
Continue ReadingJohannes Zollikofer
Swiss vicar and theologian
Born
December 29th, 1633 392 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1692 333 years ago — 58 years old
Served as a prominent vicar in Switzerland, focusing on Reformed theology. Contributed to various theological writings and discussions of the time. His works reflected the religious sentiments and doctrinal frameworks of the Reformation. Engaged with local congregations and aimed to strengthen community ties through faith and spiritual guidance.
Continue ReadingJulio Rodríguez
Baseball player for Seattle Mariners
Born
December 29th, 2000 25 years ago
A Dominican baseball player debuted in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Seattle Mariners. Rodríguez excelled as an outfielder and displayed remarkable skills both offensively and defensively. In his rookie season, he achieved significant milestones, including being named the American League Rookie of the Year. Known for his powerful batting and speed on the bases, Rodríguez quickly became a key player for the Mariners, contributing to their offense and earning recognition throughout the league.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 31st
Roddy Piper
Professional wrestler and actor
Born
April 17th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2015 10 years ago — 61 years old
A Canadian professional wrestler and actor, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Gained popularity in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where developed the character 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper. Featured in the cult classic film 'They Live' which showcased both acting and wrestling skills. Wrestled in major promotions across North America, returning to WWE as a commentator and manager.
Continue ReadingTony Sly
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 4th, 1970 55 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent figure in the punk rock scene, Sly was a key member of the band NOFX. He gained recognition for his songwriting and melodic style, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Sly released solo albums, showcasing his acoustic and lyrical talents. His work resonated with fans, solidifying his status in the music community. In addition to performing, Sly participated in various collaborations, further expanding his reach in the genre.
Continue ReadingWilliam Keepers Maxwell Jr.
American editor and novelist
Born
August 16th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2000 25 years ago — 91 years old
An editor, novelist, short story writer, and essayist born in 1908. Served as a chief editor at The New Yorker, contributing significantly to the magazine's literary quality. Authored several novels, with 'They Came Like Swallows' recognized as a prominent work. Also engaged in short story writing, editing, and teaching literature. His literary career spanned several decades, showcasing a variety of themes and styles.
Continue ReadingGore Vidal
American novelist and screenwriter
Born
October 3rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2012 13 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American writer, contributed significantly to literature and political discourse through novels, essays, and screenplays. Wrote critically acclaimed works such as 'Burr' and 'Myra Breckenridge', engaging with themes of politics, sexuality, and culture. Vidal also wrote for television and film, creating sharp commentaries on American society. His essays reflected a keen intellect and controversial opinions on various issues. Engaged in public debates and served in various political capacities, influencing both literature and public thought.
Continue ReadingAlbert Leduc
Canadian ice hockey player
Born
1902 124 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1990 35 years ago — 88 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in the NHL primarily as a forward. Represented teams including the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Contributed to various teams in the Eastern Hockey League and the American Hockey League. Known for strong performance during his playing career.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Franz
Hereditary Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin
Born
1910 116 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2001 24 years ago — 91 years old
Held the title of Hereditary Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, serving as a ceremonial figure in a traditional region of Germany. Involved with the Mecklenburg-Schwerin duchy during a time of political transition in Germany. Participated in various cultural and historical activities related to the duchy, contributing to regional heritage. Managed the family estate and engaged in charitable activities for local communities.
Continue Reading