B. J. Vorster
South African politician and statesman
Served as the 4th State President of South Africa from 1966 to 1978. Held various ministerial positions prior to presidency, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Police. Focused on the policies of apartheid, emphasizing security and law enforcement. Promoted the interests of the Afrikaner population and supported strong ties with the United States during the Cold War. His administration faced international criticism and economic sanctions due to apartheid policies.
Served as State President from 1966 to 1978
Held the position of Minister of Justice
Implemented policies supporting the apartheid regime
Other People Born on December 13th
Eric XIV of Sweden
King of Sweden, claimed throne in 1560
Born
December 13th, 1533 492 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1577 448 years ago — 43 years old
Became King of Sweden in 1560, ruling until 1577. His reign was marked by various military conflicts and attempts to solidify power in the Baltic region. Eric XIV engaged in wars against Denmark and Russia, aimed at expanding the kingdom's influence. His marriage to Karin Månsdotter, a commoner, caused friction with the nobility and led to political instability. In 1570, he faced a coup that resulted in his imprisonment and eventual forced abdication. Died in captivity in 1577.
Continue ReadingLaura Hodges
Australian basketball player, Opals member
Born
December 13th, 1983 42 years ago
Played professional basketball in Australia and internationally. Competed for the Australian national team, the Opals, participating in multiple FIBA World Championships and Olympic Games. Played for club teams including the Australian WNBL teams and earned recognition for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingPanagiotis Kanellopoulos
Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
December 13th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1986 39 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 138th Prime Minister of Greece during the early 1960s. Played a significant role in Greek politics and was active during a period marked by considerable political turmoil. Contributed to several key reforms and policies aimed at modernizing Greek society. Engaged in philosophical writings that explored various societal issues and government practices. His political career included involvement in multiple governments and discussions surrounding Greece's socio-economic challenges.
Continue ReadingJames Kyson
American actor in 'Heroes'
Born
December 13th, 1975 50 years ago
An American actor, recognized for significant roles in television and film. Gained prominence for portraying Ando Masahashi in the NBC sci-fi series 'Heroes'. Also appeared in various other television series and films, showcasing a range of characters throughout a thriving career in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPaul Bracq
Renowned French automotive designer
Born
December 13th, 1933 92 years ago
An influential automotive designer, contributed to several iconic vehicles throughout a lengthy career. Worked with prestigious manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Significant designs include the Mercedes-Benz 600 and the BMW Turbo, showcasing innovative aesthetics and engineering. His design philosophy emphasized elegance and functionality, leaving a lasting imprint on automotive styling.
Continue ReadingEmma Corrin
English actor, starred in The Crown
Born
December 13th, 1995 30 years ago
An English actor gained prominence through a breakthrough role in the Netflix series 'The Crown' portraying Princess Diana. This role earned critical acclaim and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama. Following this success, involvement in several other projects drew attention, showcasing the ability to tackle complex characters in both film and television. Recent work includes roles in films such as 'Pennyworth' and 'The Pursuit of Love,' further establishing a dynamic presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on September 10th
John the Fearless
Duke of Burgundy during the Hundred Years War
Born
May 28th, 1371 654 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1419 606 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1371, the Duke of Burgundy played a significant role in the politics of France during the Hundred Years War. Ascending to the title in 1404, he actively engaged in the power struggles between the Armagnacs and the Burgundians. His leadership led to the consolidation of Burgundian influence in northern France. John the Fearless also engaged in alliances through strategic marriages, notably with the English crown. His reign was marked by political maneuvering, which often led to conflict with rival factions within France. His assassination in 1419 significantly altered the dynamics of the ongoing conflict, leading to further struggles for control during a tumultuous period in French history.
Continue ReadingThomas Hopkins Gallaudet
Educator and founder of school for deaf
Born
December 10th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1851 174 years ago — 63 years old
An American educator dedicated to the education of the deaf. Founded the American School for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1817, which was the first permanent school for deaf children in the United States. Pioneered methods of instruction for the deaf, utilizing sign language as an essential tool for communication and learning. Collaborated with Laurent Clerc, a deaf educator from France, to establish a curriculum that would influence deaf education significantly.
Continue ReadingRichard Kiel
Actor and voice artist, starred in Bond films
Born
September 13th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2014 11 years ago — 74 years old
An American actor and voice artist, gained recognition for portraying the iconic villain Jaws in the James Bond films 'The Spy Who Loved Me' and 'Moonraker'. Kiel's career spanned several decades, during which he appeared in a variety of television series and movies. His imposing height and distinctively menacing presence made him a memorable figure in the film industry. Aside from his role in the Bond franchise, contributed to various projects that showcased his versatility and appeal. In addition to acting, he lent his voice to animated series, adding another dimension to his entertainment career.
Continue ReadingWilfrid Scawen Blunt
English poet and social activist
Born
August 17th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1922 103 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1840, a poet and activist focused on social justice and the rights of marginalized communities. Active in the movement for Irish Home Rule, he also opposed the British intervention in Egypt. His poetry often reflected his political views and his engagement with issues of imperialism and freedom. Blunt published several volumes of poetry and wrote extensively on Middle Eastern politics and society, advocating for the rights of the Arab people against colonial powers.
Continue ReadingPier Angeli
Italian actress best known for film roles
Born
June 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1971 54 years ago — 39 years old
Born in Italy on June 19, 1932, an actress achieved fame during the 1950s and 1960s. Breakthrough roles included performances in films such as 'The Silver Chalice' and 'The Glass Wall'. Gained attention for portraying complex characters that resonated with audiences. Spent much of her career in the United States, where collaborations with various directors led to notable recognition. Besides acting, engaged in philanthropy and was involved in charitable causes.
Continue ReadingSukumar Ray
Indian-Bangladeshi author and poet
Born
October 30th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1923 102 years ago — 35 years old
An influential author, poet, and playwright, created a distinctive body of work that includes children's literature and humorous poetry. Contributed to Bengali literature with notable writings, blending imagination and humor. Worked as an editor for the magazine Sandesh, which became a popular platform for his literary creations. His work often reflected a deep understanding of child psychology and an appreciation for the whimsical aspects of life.
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