Calvin Bassey
Footballer and UEFA Europa League winner
A professional footballer with roots in Nigeria, played as a defender and gained prominence in European football. Started career at the youth level with the Leicester City academy. Joined Rangers in 2020, winning the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish League Cup. In 2022, transferred to Ajax Amsterdam, continuing to compete at the highest level in European competitions.
Won the UEFA Europa League with Rangers in 2021
Played for Ajax Amsterdam in the Eredivisie
Secured the Scottish Premiership title with Rangers
Other People Born on December 31st
Phill Kline
American lawyer and Kansas Attorney General
Born
December 31st, 1959 65 years ago
Graduated from the University of Kansas and the University of Kansas School of Law. Served as an Assistant Attorney General in Kansas. Elected as the Kansas Attorney General from 2003 to 2007. His tenure included significant legal battles related to abortion laws and voter registration issues. After leaving office, engaged in private legal practice and became involved in political advocacy within conservative circles.
Continue ReadingAndreas Vesalius
Anatomist and physician; published 'De humani corporis fabrica'
Born
December 31st, 1514 510 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1564 461 years ago — 49 years old
Birth occurred in Brussels, within the region known as the Low Countries. Studied medicine at the University of Padua, contributing significantly to the field of anatomy. Published 'De humani corporis fabrica' in 1543, revolutionizing the understanding of human anatomy through detailed illustrations and systematic dissection. Established a new standard for anatomical studies that influenced generations of physicians and anatomists. Served as court physician to Emperor Charles V. His work laid the groundwork for modern anatomy and challenged conventional beliefs of the time.
Continue ReadingCorey Crawford
Ice Hockey Goaltender, 2x Stanley Cup Champion
Born
December 31st, 1984 40 years ago
A Canadian ice hockey player, excelled as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Chicago Blackhawks. Crawford was drafted by the Blackhawks in 2003 and made his NHL debut in 2010. Played a crucial role in the Blackhawks' back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2013 and 2015. Notable for his strong performances during the playoffs, earning recognition as a valuable member of his team, he was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2013 as the most valuable player of the playoffs.
Continue ReadingAlex Salmond
Scottish politician, First Minister of Scotland
Born
December 31st, 1954 70 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 69 years old
An economist and politician, served as the First Minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014. Played a key role in the Scottish independence movement and led the Scottish National Party (SNP) during significant electoral successes. Oversaw the 2014 independence referendum, a pivotal moment in Scotland's political history. After leaving office, continued to engage in political discourse and advocacy.
Continue ReadingGabby Douglas
Gymnast and Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 31st, 1995 29 years ago
A celebrated gymnast from the United States, earned fame through remarkable performances at international competitions, particularly during the 2012 London Olympics. Captured attention by becoming the first African American gymnast to win the individual all-around title at the Olympics. Achieved additional success by contributing to the U.S. women's gymnastics team victory in the team competition at the same Olympics. Continued to compete at the elite level, participating in subsequent events and championships.
Continue ReadingHugh McElhenny
American football running back, Hall of Famer
Born
December 31st, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 94 years old
Played college football at the University of Washington. Entered the NFL in 1952 with the San Francisco 49ers. Achieved significant success as a running back, recognized for exceptional speed and agility. Participated in five Pro Bowls and was a First-Team All-Pro selection three times. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1970, solidifying a legacy in the sport. After retiring, served as a coach and mentor in various capacities.
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