Bernard Pollard
American football player and safety
Played as a safety in the National Football League for several teams, including the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Baltimore Ravens. Contributed to the Baltimore Ravens' victory in Super Bowl XLVII. Recognized for strong defensive skills and ability to make key plays in crucial moments. Retired from professional football and transitioned to sports commentary.
Contributed to Baltimore Ravens' Super Bowl XLVII win
Recorded multiple interceptions during career
Played for teams including Kansas City Chiefs and New England Patriots
Other People Born on December 23rd
Jorma Kaukonen
American guitarist and singer-songwriter
Born
December 23rd, 1940 85 years ago
A singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributions to music began with the band Jefferson Airplane in the 1960s, where pivotal performances at the Woodstock Festival took place. Later, transitioned to Hot Tuna, a band formed with Jack Casady, focusing on blues and folk music. Released solo albums that showcased unique guitar skills and songwriting. A skilled fingerstyle guitarist, influenced many within the genres of rock and folk. Continues to perform and teach guitar.
Continue ReadingTim Hardin
Folk singer-songwriter and musician
Born
December 23rd, 1941 84 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 39 years old
An influential folk singer-songwriter and musician emerged in the 1960s, contributing to the genre with a distinctive voice and poignant lyrics. Hardin's songwriting gained attention and was covered by various artists, showcasing the emotional depth of his work. Hardin recorded several albums, with significant acclaim for his self-titled debut. His most notable songs include 'If I Were a Carpenter' and 'Reason to Believe', which became popular through covers by other artists. Struggling with personal demons, Hardin's career was marked by periods of instability but left a lasting imprint on the folk music scene.
Continue ReadingRayner Unwin
English publisher and editor
Born
December 23rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 75 years old
An English publisher and editor, contributed significantly to children's literature. Led the publishing house Unwin Hyman, which published acclaimed children's books. Worked closely with authors such as Roald Dahl and Richard Adams, helping to shape their works for younger audiences. Played a pivotal role in promoting various literary talents in the UK publishing scene during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingDick Weber
Professional bowler and PBA champion
Born
December 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in professional bowling, Weber competed in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) and achieved significant accolades throughout a career spanning multiple decades. Weber won 26 PBA Tour titles, including the prestigious PBA National Championship in 1970. He was a key figure in popularizing the sport and served as a mentor to many aspiring bowlers. Weber was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1975 and the ABC (American Bowling Congress) Hall of Fame in 1987. His contributions to the sport have influenced generations of bowlers.
Continue ReadingTerry Peder Rasmussen
American serial killer and criminal
Born
December 23rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2010 15 years ago — 67 years old
Active in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, committed multiple murders across several states. Linked to various cold cases, including the disappearance of several individuals. Adopted different aliases to evade law enforcement, complicating investigations. Convicted for the murders of at least four people, with evidence suggesting involvement in several others. Executed a series of killings often in connection with his tumultuous personal life. Death occurred while serving a prison sentence.
Continue ReadingAkihito
Emperor of Japan; post-war era reign
Born
December 23rd, 1933 92 years ago
Ascended to the throne in 1989 following the death of the Shōwa Emperor. As Emperor, engaged in various ceremonial duties and state visits, contributing to Japan's international relations. In 2016, announced intention to abdicate, citing concerns about age and health. Abdication occurred in April 2019, marking the first abdication of a Japanese emperor in over two centuries. Participated in the Jōmon period archaeological research and promoted various cultural and educational initiatives throughout reign.
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