D. J. Mbenga
Basketball player, NBA champion 2011
Played professional basketball primarily as a center. Began career in Belgium before moving to the NBA, where contributions included stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks. Achieved significant success with the Lakers, securing an NBA championship in 2011. Also represented the national team of Belgium in international competitions.
Won NBA Championship with Los Angeles Lakers in 2010
Played for the Dallas Mavericks
Competed for Belgium in EuroBasket
Other People Born on December 30th
Ōzutsu Man'emon
Japanese sumo wrestler, 18th Yokozuna
Born
December 30th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1918 107 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1869, a prominent sumo wrestler achieved the rank of Yokozuna, becoming one of the most respected figures in the sport. Competed in the late 19th century, participated in numerous tournaments, and garnered significant recognition for wrestling prowess. Emerged as a leader in the sumo community and contributed to the traditions of the sport. Retired from active competition and lived a life that influenced subsequent generations of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingTony Serra
Criminal defense attorney and activist
Born
December 30th, 1934 90 years ago
Born in 1934, a criminal defense and civil rights attorney specialized in high-profile cases. Engaged in political activism and tax resistance over the decades, serving as a prominent figure in various social justice causes. Argued cases in defense of clients charged with serious crimes, gaining recognition for defending the rights of marginalized populations. Actively participated in protests and movements concerning civil rights and anti-establishment issues, advocating for systemic change through legal channels and public discourse.
Continue ReadingRandall Azofeifa
Costa Rican footballer and midfielder
Born
December 30th, 1984 40 years ago
This Costa Rican footballer played primarily as a midfielder. His career includes time spent at clubs like Deportivo Saprissa and Brujas. Azofeifa also made significant contributions to the national team, representing Costa Rica in various international competitions. His playing style showcased skill and tactical awareness, essential for central midfield functions. Throughout his career, he participated in key matches and tournaments that highlighted his abilities on the international stage.
Continue ReadingLouis-Jean-François Lagrenée
French painter and educator in history
Born
December 30th, 1724 300 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1805 220 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1724, a French painter and educator specialized in history painting and genre scenes. Studied at the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, where teachings included techniques and styles of the time. Gained recognition for skills in composition and color, leading to major works commissioned by the French aristocracy. Served as a professor at the Academy, influencing a generation of artists. His works reflected both classical and contemporary themes, merging narrative with aesthetic appeal.
Continue ReadingBjarne Stroustrup
Computer Scientist, C++ Programming Language
Born
December 30th, 1950 74 years ago
A Danish computer scientist, played a pivotal role in developing the C++ programming language, which has become one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. Stroustrup began working on C++ in the late 1970s at Bell Labs, aiming to enhance the C programming language with features that support object-oriented programming. The first edition of 'The C++ Programming Language' was published in 1985, providing a comprehensive guide to the language. Over the years, Stroustrup contributed to various standards of C++, influencing its evolution and integration in software development. He has held academic positions at both Texas A&M University and Columbia University, educating future generations of programmers.
Continue ReadingEbussuud Efendi
Ottoman lawyer and jurist, Chief Justice
Born
December 30th, 1490 534 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1574 451 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1490, this individual served as the Chief Justice of the Ottoman Empire during the 16th century and played a crucial role in shaping Islamic jurisprudence. Appointed in 1545, provided authoritative interpretations of Islamic law, contributing to the development of the legal system within the empire. Engaged in significant judicial reforms, enhancing the structure and efficiency of the courts. His works influenced the legal practices in the Ottoman Empire for generations.
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