Branch Rickey
Baseball executive and pioneer of integration
Served as a baseball executive and manager, primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Implemented the signing of Jackie Robinson, breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier in 1947. Sought to expand player scouting and development, establishing a setting for future talent. Created the farm system of minor league teams, enhancing the recruitment of new players into the majors.
Signed Jackie Robinson, first African American player in MLB
Developed the farm system for talent scouting
Other People Born on December 20th
Ksenia Makarova
Figure skater, 2011 World Champion
Born
December 20th, 1992 33 years ago
A Russian-American figure skater competed in singles and pairs disciplines. Competed at the national and international levels, achieving notable successes. Secured a gold medal at the 2011 World Figure Skating Championships in Moscow, representing Russia. Participated in multiple Grand Prix events and European Championships. Transitioned to representing the United States later in career, continuing to compete at high levels.
Continue ReadingJohn Sarkander
Polish-Moravian priest and saint
Born
December 20th, 1576 449 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1620 405 years ago — 43 years old
A priest and saint associated with Catholicism, served in the early 17th century. Played a significant role in spiritual leadership, exhibiting resilience amidst persecution. After being imprisoned and tortured for his faith, he maintained his commitment to the church, leading to his martyrdom. Canonized by Pope Pius IX in 1867, recognized for his unwavering faith and contributions to the Catholic community.
Continue ReadingFacundo Pellistri
Uruguayan footballer at Manchester United
Born
December 20th, 2001 24 years ago
Born in 2001, this Uruguayan footballer began his career at the youth academy of Montevideo-based club Peñarol. After impressing during his tenure, a transfer to Manchester United in 2020 solidified his position in European football. His skillful play as a winger caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Throughout his time, he has been utilized both in domestic league matches and European competitions, showcasing his talents on major platforms.
Continue ReadingMichel Chartrand
Canadian trade union leader
Born
December 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent trade union leader in Canada, this individual advocated for workers' rights and labor reform throughout the latter half of the 20th century. He played a crucial role in the formation of influential labor organizations and represented various labor interests across the nation. Engaging in numerous strikes and negotiations, this leader significantly influenced Canadian labor policies and the movement's growth overall. His work contributed to the establishment of better working conditions and fair labor practices.
Continue ReadingFabian Schär
Swiss footballer and national team player
Born
December 20th, 1991 34 years ago
A Swiss professional footballer, played as a center-back. Started career at FC Wil before moving to FC Basel, winning multiple Super League titles. Later played for Newcastle United in the Premier League. Represented Switzerland in international competitions, including the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingCalvin Ridley
American Football Wide Receiver, Pro Bowler
Born
December 20th, 1994 31 years ago
Professional American football wide receiver played for the Atlanta Falcons. Demonstrated exceptional receiving skills and speed. Achieved a breakout season in 2020, finishing with over 1,300 receiving yards and led the team in receptions. Suffered a foot injury in 2021 but returned for the 2022 season after serving a suspension. Contributed significantly to the team's offensive strategies during his tenure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Georgia Gibbs
American singer with chart-topping hits
Born
August 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2006 19 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1919, a prominent American singer gained popularity during the 1940s and 1950s. She achieved commercial success with several hit singles and is best remembered for her unique vocal style. The music career included performances in major venues and appearances on radio shows. Gibbs recorded under notable record labels, contributing to the music landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingJuvenal Juvêncio
Brazilian politician and lawyer
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Brazil. Juvêncio held the position of Deputy in the Federal Legislative Assembly. Engaged in significant legal and political activities. Participated actively in social and political issues throughout his career. Contributed to legislative processes and governance in Brazil. Also involved in local political initiatives.
Continue ReadingSpeedy Duncan
American football player, 1969 Pro Bowler
Born
August 10th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 79 years old
A professional American football player played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Duncan played for the San Diego Chargers, where he contributed significantly to the team’s defense. Over the course of his career, he intercepted numerous passes and returned kicks, showcasing notable speed and agility on the field. He had a standout season in 1969, earning a trip to the Pro Bowl, which is awarded to the league's top players. His time in the NFL left a lasting impression, particularly during his years with the Chargers.
Continue ReadingJulio Terrazas Sandoval
Bolivian cardinal and religious leader
Born
1936 89 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and as the Archbishop of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Contributed to the spiritual and social life of Bolivia, overseeing various diocesan activities and initiatives. Participated in the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, marking a significant moment in the church's history. Dedicated efforts to address social issues within Bolivia, promoting education and community development.
Continue ReadingDemaryius Thomas
American football wide receiver, Super Bowl champion
Born
December 25th, 1987 37 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 33 years old
A wide receiver who played in the National Football League (NFL), contributed significantly to the success of the Denver Broncos. Recorded a standout career marked by impressive statistics, including over 9,000 receiving yards and 60 touchdowns. Achieved prominence during the 2015 season, playing a key role in the Broncos' Super Bowl 50 victory. Earned recognition for exceptional performances in crucial games and established himself as a reliable target for quarterbacks.
Continue ReadingNorman Breslow
Statistician with significant academic contributions
Born
1941 84 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent statistician and academic contributed extensively to biostatistics and epidemiology. Worked on important statistical methods and model development, impacting various fields including public health. Served as a professor at the University of Washington, influencing many students and researchers in the statistical community. Published numerous research papers, advancing methodologies for analyzing complex data. Involved in various national statistical programs that shaped research practices.
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