Cokie Roberts

Journalist and author, NPR contributor

Cokie Roberts - Journalist and author, NPR contributor
Born

December 27th, 1943
81 years ago

Died

September 17th, 2019
5 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American journalist and author, contributed significantly to political commentary through various media outlets. Worked for NPR as a congressional correspondent and served as a political analyst for ABC News. Authored several books focusing on women in American history and inherited the legacy of reporting on the political landscape throughout her career. Garnered respect for insightful analysis and coverage of government and politics, particularly during elections.

Worked as a senior news analyst for NPR

Served as a political commentator for ABC News

Authored 'We Are Our Mothers' Daughters'

Other People Born on December 27th

Terry Bozzio

Drummer and songwriter known for drumming
Born
December 27th, 1950 74 years ago

A prominent drummer and songwriter, made significant contributions to rock and progressive music. Joined the band Frank Zappa in the 1970s, showcasing unique drumming techniques and complex rhythms. Co-founded the influential progressive rock group Missing Persons in the early 1980s. Released numerous solo projects and participated in collaborations with various artists, demonstrating innovative approaches to drumming and composition.

Continue Reading

George Cayley

Engineer and aviation pioneer
Born
December 27th, 1773 251 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions to aeronautics included the development of the concept of the airplane as a heavier-than-air powered vehicle. Authored influential works detailing principles of flight and created designs for various aircraft. Constructed the first successful manned flight in history with a glider in 1853. Served as a member of Parliament, contributing to civil engineering and local governance.

Continue Reading

Lisa Jakub

Canadian actress, starred in 'Mrs. Doubtfire'
Born
December 27th, 1978 46 years ago

Born in 1978, this actress gained recognition for her role as Mara in the film 'Mrs. Doubtfire'. Initially starting her career at a young age, she appeared in various television shows and movies throughout the 1990s. Transitioning from acting, she focused on writing and speaking engagements, sharing insights about her experiences in the entertainment industry. The shift in career has allowed exploration of different creative outlets beyond acting.

Continue Reading

Scotty Moore

American guitarist and songwriter
Born
December 27th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
June 28th, 2016 8 years ago — 84 years old

Guitarist and songwriter collaborated with Elvis Presley and played a fundamental role in shaping the sound of rockabilly music. Moore's innovative guitar work can be heard on iconic tracks such as "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Hound Dog." He participated in Presley's legendary Sun Studio sessions in the mid-1950s, contributing to the creation of rock and roll as a genre. Throughout his career, he also performed with several other artists and released solo albums, showcasing his guitar skills and songwriting abilities.

Continue Reading

David Dunn

Footballer and manager, played for Blackburn
Born
December 27th, 1979 45 years ago

Played as a midfielder, primarily with Blackburn Rovers, during two spells at the club. Made over 250 appearances and contributed to their Premier League victory in 1995. Transitioned into management after retiring from playing, taking charge of various teams in the lower leagues. Additionally, represented England at youth level, gaining recognition for performances in the national setup.

Continue Reading

Joe Kinnear

Football manager and player
Born
December 27th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2024 0 years ago — 77 years old

Played for clubs including Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United as a defender. Transitioned to management after retirement, taking charge of various clubs including Wimbledon, Luton Town, and Newcastle United. Guided the teams through various league campaigns and had a notable stint at Newcastle where significant attention was drawn during management due to his outspoken nature.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 17th

Pedro Menéndez de Avilés

First Spanish Governor of Florida
Born
February 15th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1574 450 years ago — 55 years old

Served as the first Spanish Governor of Florida, establishing the settlement of St. Augustine in 1565, which became the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Appointed by King Philip II of Spain, Menéndez led military expeditions in the region and focused on converting the local Indigenous populations to Christianity. His tenure marked the beginning of a structured Spanish presence in Florida.

Continue Reading

John Delafose

Accordion player and Zydeco musician
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 55 years old

An American accordion player specialized in Zydeco music. Born in Louisiana, blended traditional Cajun sounds with African influences. Released multiple albums that garnered regional and national attention. Performed extensively at festivals and events, popularizing the genre beyond its local roots. Led bands including the Lil' Band O' Gold, contributing to the growth of Zydeco's popularity.

Continue Reading

Nelson DeMille

American author and military officer
Born
August 23rd, 1943 81 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2024 0 years ago — 81 years old

An American author and former military officer served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After military service, started a writing career, achieving popularity with novels that blend action, suspense, and historical elements. Some works include 'The General's Daughter', 'Word of Honor', and the John Corey series. Engaged readers with intricate plots and memorable characters, leading to a successful career in the literary world.

Continue Reading

Anastasio Somoza Debayle

Nicaraguan politician and President
Born
December 5th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1980 44 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the 73rd President of Nicaragua from 1967 to 1972 and again from 1974 to 1979. Assumed power in a context marked by political upheaval and economic challenges. Oversaw a government that faced opposition from both leftist guerrillas and political dissidents. His administration was characterized by authoritarian rule and the use of state violence against opponents. Exiled after the Sandinista Revolution, he lived in Argentina until his assassination in 1980.

Continue Reading

Neil King Jr.

Journalist and author of political works
Born
July 27th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
September 17th, 2024 0 years ago — 65 years old

This journalist served as a reporter and editor for various prominent publications, including The Wall Street Journal. Specializing in political coverage, he provided insights and analyses of major national and international events. Alongside journalistic endeavors, authored significant books that explore political themes and the current state of America. Contributed to a better understanding of political developments through detailed reporting and storytelling.

Continue Reading

Edmonia Lewis

American sculptor of marble works
Born
1844 181 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1907 117 years ago — 63 years old

An American sculptor created notable marble sculptures during the 19th century. Initially influenced by the abolitionist and women's rights movements, the artist's work often reflected themes of African American and Native American identity. Relocated to Europe for a significant part of the career, the sculptor gained recognition in Paris, where notable commissions ensued. Major works include 'The Death of Cleopatra' and 'Forever Free', which showcase neoclassical style and address social issues. This artist faced and overcame racial prejudice throughout the career, leaving a lasting impact in the realm of sculpture.

Continue Reading