Benjamin A. Gilman
American soldier and politician
Served as a U.S. Representative from New York from 1973 to 1998. Participated in World War II as a soldier in the Army, where significant contributions included leadership roles. Actively engaged in international relations, particularly in Latin America and Eastern Europe during the post-Cold War era. Advocated for veterans' issues and supported various community initiatives throughout the congressional tenure.
represented New York's 22nd congressional district
chaired the House International Relations Committee
Other People Born on December 6th
Viktor Antipin
Ice hockey player, KHL champion
Born
December 6th, 1992 33 years ago
Began professional career in 2010 with Metallurg Novokuznetsk. Played in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) for teams such as Salavat Yulaev Ufa and Metallurg Magnitogorsk. Competed at the international level, representing Russia in various tournaments. Achieved the Gagarin Cup with Metallurg Magnitogorsk in 2019.
Continue ReadingAngelīna Kučvaļska
Latvian figure skater
Born
December 6th, 1998 27 years ago
Competed for Latvia in figure skating events, participating in international competitions including the World Junior Figure Skating Championships. Achieved notable placements, representing the country on various platforms. Skated in both singles and pairs disciplines, showcasing talent and dedication to the sport.
Continue ReadingA Boogie wit da Hoodie
Rapper with notable album 'Hoodie SZN'
Born
December 6th, 1995 30 years ago
An American rapper and singer-songwriter gained prominence in the music industry with the debut studio album 'Hoodie SZN' in 2018, which reached number two on the Billboard 200 chart. The artist is recognized for blending melodic elements with hip-hop, often reflecting themes of love and street life in lyrics. Early mixtapes, such as 'Artist' (2016), helped establish a dedicated fan base. Collaborations with various artists in the rap and hip-hop genre contributed to a growing discography, including singles that charted on the Billboard Hot 100.
Continue ReadingJohnny Manziel
American football player, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
December 6th, 1992 33 years ago
Played college football at Texas A&M University. Won the Heisman Trophy in 2012, becoming the first freshman to achieve this honor. Selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. Played two seasons with the Browns before facing off-field issues that affected career longevity. Also played in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the Alliance of American Football (AAF).
Continue ReadingTautau Moga
Rugby league player, Brisbane Broncos
Born
December 6th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, played professional rugby league primarily in Australia. Started a career with the Brisbane Broncos in the National Rugby League (NRL), where contributions on the field showcased significant athletic abilities. Also played for the Newcastle Knights and made appearances for the North Queensland Cowboys. Had a solid junior career before transitioning to the professional level, demonstrating skills as a center. Represented Samoa at the international level, participating in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
Continue ReadingCoco Vandeweghe
American tennis player, US Open semifinalist
Born
December 6th, 1991 34 years ago
Competed as a professional tennis player, achieving significant success in singles and doubles. Reached the semifinals of the US Open in 2017 and finished the year ranked as high as No. 9 in the WTA singles rankings. Achieved notable performances in Grand Slam tournaments, contributing to her reputation in the sport. Also represented the United States in Fed Cup and was part of the team that won the Fed Cup title in 2017. Known for a powerful serve and aggressive playing style on the court.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Peter Warlock
English composer and music critic
Born
October 30th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1930 95 years ago — 36 years old
A significant figure in early 20th-century music, contributed to the English musical landscape through composition and criticism. Worked under the pseudonym Peter Warlock and was influential in the revival of interest in English music, particularly through compositions for choral and vocal music. His most notable works include the famous collection of songs titled 'The Curlew' and orchestral pieces that combined traditional forms with modern techniques. Engaged in music criticism, providing insights and commentary that shaped public perception of contemporary composers and their works.
Continue ReadingLarry Sherry
Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
July 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2006 19 years ago — 71 years old
A professional baseball player and coach, played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1959 to 1962. Played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 1963 World Series victory, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player award. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, applying experience and knowledge of the game to help develop players.
Continue ReadingDorothy L. Sayers
English author and poet of detective fiction
Born
June 13th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1957 68 years ago — 64 years old
An English author and poet, contributions spanned novels, plays, and essays. Achieved acclaim for the creation of the fictional detective Lord Peter Wimsey, debuting in 'Whose Body?' in 1923. Was also a respected playwright and translator, notably adapting Dante's 'Divine Comedy' into English. In addition to fiction, engaged in writing about theology and literary criticism. Pursued academic studies in modern languages and held diverse roles in the publishing field.
Continue ReadingLaurier LaPierre
Historian and politician in Canada
Born
November 21st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 83 years old
A historian, journalist, and politician contributed significantly to the Canadian political landscape. Served as a Member of Parliament and played a role in the Liberal party. Worked extensively in media, including roles with the CBC, where discussions on historical and political issues were prominent. Authored several works examining Canadian identity and history, helping to shape the national narrative. Engaged in various political and cultural discussions, often appearing as a commentator.
Continue ReadingFrancis Beaufort
Irish hydrographer and Royal Navy officer
Born
May 27th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1857 168 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to maritime navigation and meteorology. Developed the Beaufort Scale, which classifies wind strength based on observed sea conditions. Served in the Royal Navy and undertook various surveys, enhancing understanding of oceanography. His work laid the foundation for modern meteorological practices and navigational standards.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory VIII
Pope during the Third Crusade
Born
1100 926 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1187 838 years ago — 87 years old
Elected as pope in 1187, this religious leader played a significant role during the Third Crusade. His papacy was marked by efforts to rally support for Christian forces against Muslim armies. The pontiff issued the papal bull 'Audita Tremendi' to encourage European monarchs to unite for the campaign to reclaim Jerusalem following its capture by Saladin. His tenure as pope lasted only a few months until his death later that year.
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