Bob Hawke
Australian Prime Minister and union leader
A prominent political figure, served as the 23rd Prime Minister of Australia from 1983 to 1991. Initially gained prominence as a trade union leader and played a significant role in union movement activities. Under leadership, Australia experienced economic reforms and a significant shift in industrial relations policy. Worked towards advancing educational policies and environmental reforms, influencing social and economic aspects of Australian society.
Served as Prime Minister from 1983 to 1991
Implemented significant economic reforms
Promoted social policies including education and environment
Other People Born on December 9th
Germain Gagnon
Ice hockey player and Olympic competitor
Born
December 9th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 71 years old
Germain Gagnon was a Canadian ice hockey player who competed at the international level and played professionally in the National Hockey League (NHL). He was part of the Canadian team that participated in the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France, finishing in seventh place. Gagnon had a prominent career in the minor leagues, where he played for teams including the Quebec Aces and the Portland Buckaroos. His contributions to the sport during his career spanned various leagues, showcasing his skills and dedication to ice hockey.
Continue ReadingAlbert Weisbord
American activist, Communist League founder
Born
December 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 77 years old
An activist involved in the labor movement, played a significant role in the early 20th-century communist movement in the United States. Founded the Communist League of Struggle, which aimed to unite and organize workers under communist principles. Engaged in political education and organizing efforts throughout the 1930s and 1940s. The organization worked to address worker rights and advocated for socialist policies during a time of economic hardship in the U.S.
Continue ReadingMargaret Hamilton
Actress and voice artist from America
Born
December 9th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1985 40 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished American actress and voice artist, Hamilton is recognized for her work in film and television, particularly for the role of the Wicked Witch of the West in the 1939 film 'The Wizard of Oz'. In addition to her iconic film role, she had a notable career in television. Hamilton performed in various series, earning respect in the entertainment industry for her distinctive voice and character portrayals. Beyond acting, Hamilton contributed to educational initiatives, promoting literacy and arts education.
Continue ReadingHarry Miller
American engineer and automotive innovator
Born
December 9th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1943 82 years ago — 67 years old
Born in December 1875, contributed significantly to automotive engineering. Established the Harry Miller Company, which specialized in precision engineering and manufacturing components for racing cars. Developed the Miller engine, known for its efficiency and performance, which became widely adopted in the 1920s and 1930s. Worked with various racing teams and is attributed with winning numerous races in the Indianapolis 500, becoming a notable figure in the American racing scene.
Continue ReadingJames Jesus Angleton
CIA Chief of Counterintelligence
Born
December 9th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1987 38 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent figure in the CIA, played a crucial role in shaping U.S. intelligence strategies during the Cold War. Served as Chief of Counterintelligence from 1954 until 1974, overseeing operations and analyzing counterespionage threats. Developed a reputation for his involvement in various covert operations and for managing sensitive intelligence regarding the Soviet Union. Also contributed to the establishment of numerous intelligence assessment methodologies that influenced national security strategies. His tenure was marked by intense scrutiny of Soviet espionage activities, leading to significant internal investigations within the agency. His influence extended beyond his official role, impacting intelligence community practices and methodologies in the years following his retirement.
Continue ReadingMargaret Brundage
Illustrator of Weird Tales magazine
Born
December 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 76 years old
An American illustrator gained prominence in the 1920s and 1930s through illustrations for pulp magazines. Primarily associated with Weird Tales, Brundage created iconic cover art that defined the magazine's visual identity. Her work attracted attention for its dynamic and often fantastical imagery, contributing significantly to the fantasy genre. Brundage was one of the first female illustrators to gain recognition in a male-dominated field, highlighting the blend of art and storytelling in pulp fiction. Throughout her career, she faced both challenges and opportunities, ultimately establishing a lasting legacy within the pulp magazine industry, influencing future artists and illustrators.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
Kalle Hakala
Finnish politician and parliament member
Born
March 18th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 78 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament for the National Coalition Party. Participated actively in political discussions and legislative processes during a significant period in Finland's national development. Contributed to the formulation of policies impacting various sectors, including education and social welfare. Engaged in efforts to promote national interests and represent constituents' views in parliamentary sessions.
Continue ReadingChuck Brown
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in the development of go-go music, a subgenre of funk. Originated in Washington, D.C. and played a critical role in popularizing the style throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Brown's signature sound combined funk rhythms with a strong emphasis on live percussion and audience participation. Recorded numerous albums, with standout tracks like 'Bustin' Loose' achieving considerable success. His influence extended to other artists and genres, seamlessly blending funk, R&B, and hip-hop elements in performances.
Continue ReadingBruno Covas
Brazilian politician and lawyer
Born
April 7th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2021 4 years ago — 41 years old
Served as the Mayor of São Paulo from 2017 until his death in 2021. Began a political career in the state legislature of São Paulo and later became a city council member. Managed various initiatives focused on urban development and public health. Prior to becoming mayor, held the position of Secretary of Urban Development in the São Paulo government.
Continue ReadingEdward Hardwicke
English actor of Sherlock Holmes series
Born
August 7th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 78 years old
An actor with a career spanning several decades, primarily recognized for roles in television and film. Gained significant recognition for portraying Dr. John Watson in the Sherlock Holmes television adaptations alongside Jeremy Brett. Participated in various theater productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed to numerous British television dramas, making a notable impact as a character actor.
Continue ReadingEliot Ness
Law enforcement agent and Prohibition agent
Born
April 19th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1957 68 years ago — 54 years old
Served in law enforcement during the Prohibition era and gained fame as the leader of the Untouchables, a special unit tasked with enforcing prohibition laws in Chicago. Targeted the notorious gangster Al Capone and played a significant role in his conviction for tax evasion. Later became Public Safety Director of Cleveland, where significant reforms were implemented in the police department and city safety policies. Authored an autobiography detailing experiences and obstacles faced in combating organized crime.
Continue ReadingH. B. Reese
Candy maker, creator of Reese's Cups
Born
May 24th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1956 69 years ago — 76 years old
An American candy maker and businessman established a confectionery company that produced a popular chocolate and peanut butter candy. The creation of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups emerged from a side business started in the 1920s. The product gained popularity and became a staple in the candy industry. After a successful launch, the company expanded, and following his death in 1956, it was acquired by The Hershey Company, ensuring the continued success of the brand.
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