Betty Wright
Singer-songwriter with Grammy Award
A prominent American singer-songwriter, contributed significantly to the R&B genre. Rose to fame in the 1970s with a string of hit songs. One of the most popular tracks, 'Clean Up Woman', became a staple in soul music. Received a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song for 'Where Is the Love' in 1976, which showcased songwriting talent and vocal prowess. Collaborated with various artists throughout a career spanning several decades. Continued to influence and mentor upcoming musicians.
Released hit song 'Clean Up Woman'
Won Grammy Award for 'Where Is the Love'
Collaborated with artists like Alicia Keys
Other People Born on December 21st
John H. Ketcham
American general and politician
Born
December 21st, 1832 193 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1906 119 years ago — 73 years old
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War and later became a politician in the post-war period. Commanded troops in several significant battles, contributing to military efforts for the Union. After the war, held various political offices, including serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. Worked on issues related to veterans and reconstruction.
Continue ReadingJoe Paterno
American football coach at Penn State
Born
December 21st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2012 14 years ago — 85 years old
A college football coach, led the Penn State Nittany Lions for 46 seasons. Achieved the most wins in NCAA Division I football history at the time of retirement. Coached the team to two national championships and numerous bowl game victories. Developed a reputation for his commitment to academic integrity and player development throughout his tenure.
Continue ReadingAnthony Powell
English soldier and author
Born
December 21st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2000 26 years ago — 94 years old
Served in the British Army during World War II. Began writing novels after the war, with a significant focus on English society. Authored the twelve-volume work 'A Dance to the Music of Time,' which explored themes of time, memory, and the passage of life. Received various literary accolades during a prolific writing career, contributing essays and criticism as well.
Continue ReadingThomas Bracken
Journalist, poet, and politician
Born
December 21st, 1843 182 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1898 128 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Ireland and later settling in New Zealand, contributed significantly to literature and politics. Bracken's poetry often reflected the themes of nationalism and the landscape of New Zealand. He served as a member of the New Zealand Parliament and was a prominent advocate for the cultural identity of the nation. His most celebrated work includes the poem 'God Defend New Zealand', which was later adopted as one of the national anthems. His efforts in journalism helped shape public discourse in 19th-century New Zealand.
Continue ReadingGustave Kahn
French poet and literary critic
Born
December 21st, 1859 166 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1936 90 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1859, this individual contributed significantly to French poetry and literary criticism. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, worked with the Symbolist movement and played a critical role in the evolution of modern poetry. Editored important literary reviews and published various poetry collections. Engaged in promoting the works of contemporary poets and critics, influencing the literary landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingLuis Arturo González López
Guatemalan supreme court judge
Born
December 21st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1965 60 years ago — 64 years old
Served as a Supreme Court judge in Guatemala and briefly held the position of acting president during a period of political turmoil. His tenure reflected a significant time in Guatemalan governance, primarily in the mid-20th century. Demonstrated commitment to legal principles and played a role in the administration of justice during challenging times for the nation, which faced various political and social issues.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 10th
Sam Rubin
American journalist and television host
Born
1960 66 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2024 2 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent journalist known for work in television and entertainment reporting. Served as the entertainment anchor for KTLA in Los Angeles, providing insights and analysis on various aspects of the film and television industry. Also contributed to numerous other media outlets, covering significant events, celebrity interviews, and industry trends. Recognized for a personable style that engaged viewers and provided entertainment news with depth and context.
Continue ReadingHorst Faas
Photographer and journalist, Pulitzer Prize
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2012 14 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent photographer and journalist, contributed extensively to coverage of the Vietnam War. Worked for the Associated Press in the 1960s and 1970s, capturing powerful images that depicted the harsh realities of war. His photographs were published worldwide, garnering attention for their stark portrayal of conflict. Received numerous awards for his work, including the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 1965. Continued to document significant global events throughout his career, influencing visual journalism.
Continue ReadingJohn Wayne Gacy
American serial killer and rapist
Born
March 17th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1994 32 years ago — 52 years old
Engaged in criminal activities starting in the 1960s, a series of murders occurred across Illinois. Worked as a contractor and was involved in local politics. Arrested in 1978, investigations uncovered numerous bodies buried on his property and in nearby areas. Convicted of the murders of 33 young men and boys, sentenced to death in 1980, and executed in 1994.
Continue ReadingKatherine Swynford
Duchess and widow of John of Gaunt
Died
May 10th, 1403 623 years ago — None years old
Widow of John of Gaunt, played a significant role in the English royal lineage. In the late 14th century, maintained a connection to the Plantagenet dynasty through her relationship with Gaunt. Their children, known as the Beauforts, were influential figures in English nobility. Married John of Gaunt after his first wife's death, achieving a union that was contentious due to issues of legitimacy. Her descendants would later connect to the royal house of Tudor, contributing to the political landscape of England.
Continue ReadingBob Lanier
American politician and banker
Born
March 10th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
May 10th, 2022 4 years ago — 97 years old
Served as the Mayor of Houston from 1974 to 1978. Prior to his political career, held various positions in banking, ultimately contributing to economic development initiatives in Houston. Played a significant role in local governance and urban planning. Actively participated in community affairs and worked to improve infrastructure and public services in the city.
Continue ReadingÉlisabeth of France
French princess, sister of Louis XVI
Born
1764 262 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1794 232 years ago — 30 years old
A French princess and the youngest sibling of King Louis XVI, Élisabeth was deeply involved in the royal family's affairs during a turbulent period in French history. She was known for her steadfast loyalty to her brother and the monarchy. Following the onset of the French Revolution, she faced increasing dangers due to her royal status. Élisabeth was arrested in 1793 and ultimately executed by guillotine in 1794. Her life and tragic end marked the downfall of the French monarchy and reflected the harsh realities experienced by royal figures during this revolutionary period.
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