Dave Harold
English snooker player
This English snooker player gained recognition in professional snooker competitions during the 1990s. Achieved significant success in various tournaments, showcasing skill and consistency in performance. Competed in multiple World Snooker Championships and appeared in the finals of several major events throughout a lengthy career. Established a reputation for tactical play and defensive strategies, contributing to several memorable matches in the sport's history.
Reached the final of the 1999 World Snooker Championship
Competed in over 20 professional tournaments
Won various titles on the snooker circuit
Other People Born on December 9th
Grace Hopper
Computer Scientist and COBOL Designer
Born
December 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 86 years old
An American computer scientist and naval officer contributed to the development of computer programming languages. Developed the COBOL programming language, which became widely used in business applications. Served as a Commodore in the U.S. Navy Reserve, advancing through the ranks and providing guidance on computer technology and education. Hopper received numerous awards for contributions to computing, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.
Continue ReadingMax Manus
Norwegian resistance leader during WWII
Born
December 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a key figure in the Norwegian resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II. Operated with the Oslo-based group, the Norwegian Special Operations Group, focusing on sabotage missions targeting German war efforts. Participated in high-profile operations, including the sinking of the German transport ship MV Donau and the bombing of the German-controlled infrastructure in Norway. Coordinated efforts that contributed to the overall resistance movement, significantly disrupting enemy operations. After the war, became an author, documenting experiences in a widely read autobiography.
Continue ReadingClarence Birdseye
Frozen food pioneer and entrepreneur
Born
December 9th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 70 years old
An American businessman revolutionized the frozen food industry by founding Birds Eye. His innovative approach to quick-freezing methods, developed during his time in the Arctic, set the standard for preserving food while maintaining its quality. In the 1920s, the company began offering frozen fruits and vegetables to consumers, greatly changing the landscape of food preservation and distribution. The establishment of Birds Eye paved the way for the widespread consumption of frozen foods.
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 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 ReadingBuck Henry
American screenwriter and director
Born
December 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2020 5 years ago — 89 years old
An influential screenwriter, director, and actor, contributions spanned the 1960s to the 2000s. Co-created and wrote for the television series "Get Smart," which became a cultural touchstone for comedic television. Directed films including "Heaven Can Wait" and "The Graduate," receiving critical acclaim and award nominations. Served as a frequent host of "Saturday Night Live," showcasing comedic talents and writing prowess.
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