Antti Aarne
Finnish historian, scholar of folklore
Contributed significantly to the field of folklore studies. Developed the Aarne-Thompson classification system for folktales, which served as the foundation for categorizing and analyzing folk narratives. Published numerous articles and books on Finnish folklore, making primary sources more accessible to scholars and the public. His work laid the groundwork for future research in comparative folklore and mythology.
Developed the Aarne-Thompson classification system
Published influential works on Finnish folklore
Other People Born on December 5th
Pieter Oud
Dutch politician, Minister of Finance
Born
December 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 82 years old
Born in the Netherlands in 1886, a prominent figure in Dutch politics and academia. Served as the Minister of Finance from 1945 to 1948, playing a significant role in the post-World War II economic recovery of the Netherlands. Emphasized the importance of economic reforms and was influential in shaping fiscal policies during a critical time in Dutch history. Besides political work, also contributed to the field of history through academic pursuits.
Continue ReadingDon Robertson
American pianist and composer
Born
December 5th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
An American pianist and composer created numerous popular songs and instrumental works throughout a career spanning several decades. Active primarily in the mid-20th century, compositions included a mix of pop and traditional genres. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to the music industry with original pieces that achieved commercial success. In addition to composing, performed extensively, showcasing talent at various venues.
Continue ReadingDanny Levi
Rugby league player with NRL experience
Born
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago
Played as a hooker in the National Rugby League (NRL) and represented teams like the Newcastle Knights and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Participated in international competitions, representing New Zealand in rugby league. Played at a high level in the NRL, contributing to team dynamics and performance.
Continue ReadingRoss Barkley
English footballer, Chelsea FC star
Born
December 5th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional footballer specialized in attacking midfield roles, with significant career achievements starting at Everton. Joined Chelsea in 2018, contributing effectively to the team's performances. Also represented England at various levels, including the senior national team.
Continue ReadingSemi Ojeleye
Basketball player with the Boston Celtics
Born
December 5th, 1994 31 years ago
A professional basketball player, participated in college basketball at Southern Methodist University, earning All-Conference recognition. Entered the NBA in 2017, selected by the Boston Celtics. Contributed significantly to the team's playoff runs and maintained a role as a versatile defender. Achieved notable performances in the NBA playoffs, particularly in series against the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Miami Heat.
Continue ReadingAlexander Sørloth
Norwegian footballer with RB Leipzig
Born
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer active in forward positions, Sørloth began his career at Kristiansund before moving to Viking FK. He gained further attention at FC Midtjylland, where strong performances led to a transfer to Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Following a loan spell at Göztepe, he contributed significantly to the Turkish Super Lig with Trabzonspor, finishing as the league's top scorer. In 2021, he joined RB Leipzig, furthering his presence in one of Europe's top leagues. Sørloth also represented the national team, making appearances in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 2nd
Billy Henderson
Singer and member of The Spinners
Born
August 9th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 2007 18 years ago — 67 years old
Became part of The Spinners in the mid-1960s, a vocal group that achieved significant success in the music industry. The Spinners were influential in the genre of soul and R&B, earning multiple hits throughout the 1970s. Several of their songs reached the top of the charts, and the group received Grammy nominations. Henderson's contributions helped the group gain an enduring legacy in American music, marked by their harmonious vocal arrangements and engaging performances. The group toured extensively and delighted audiences with their charismatic stage presence before Henderson's passing in 2007.
Continue ReadingBernhard Gregory
Chess player and author
Born
April 22nd, 1879 146 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1939 86 years ago — 59 years old
Estonian-German chess player played a significant role in the chess community during the early 20th century. He made contributions to chess literature, authoring several books on the game. Gregory competed in numerous tournaments, showcasing his skills at both national and international levels. His analytical approach to chess strategy influenced many players.
Continue ReadingDonald Pleasence
Actor in Halloween and The Great Escape
Born
October 5th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1995 30 years ago — 75 years old
An accomplished actor, his career spanned several decades, beginning in the theater before transitioning to film and television. Featured in multiple genres, he gained prominence for roles that showcased his ability to portray complex characters. Played Dr. Sam Loomis in the Halloween horror film series and appeared as the iconic character in The Great Escape. Received critical acclaim for performances in various stage productions and films, establishing a reputation as a versatile actor.
Continue ReadingJulius Kuperjanov
Estonian lieutenant in the War of Independence
Born
October 11th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1919 106 years ago — 24 years old
Served as a lieutenant during the Estonian War of Independence, contributing to the establishment of Estonia as an independent nation. Participated in significant battles against Soviet forces, demonstrating leadership and strategic capabilities. Kuperjanov was instrumental in organizing and training troops, playing a critical role in the military efforts of the newly formed Estonian state. His service and dedication to Estonia's independence are commemorated.
Continue ReadingTruxtun Hare
American football player and hammer thrower
Born
October 12th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1956 69 years ago — 77 years old
Competed as a hammer thrower during the early 20th century and played American football primarily as a tackle. Participated in the 1904 Summer Olympics, representing the United States in athletics. Contributed to the development of football as a competitive sport in collegiate athletics, playing for institutions where the game evolved significantly. His athletic career spanned different events, showcasing versatility in both throwing and football.
Continue ReadingBert Parks
Television host and beauty pageant emcee
Born
December 30th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 77 years old
An American television personality and singer, hosted the Miss America pageant from 1955 to 1979. Started a career in entertainment with performances in radio and musical theatre. Gained considerable fame as the master of ceremonies for the annual Miss America pageant, becoming synonymous with the event. Parks showcased singing talent on various television shows and made guest appearances across multiple platforms, including game shows and variety programs.
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