Dave Kingman
Baseball player with home run records
An American baseball player participated in Major League Baseball from 1969 to 1986. Played for the San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, and Oakland Athletics. Recorded over 440 home runs throughout the career and earned a reputation as a powerful slugger. Achieved a season-high of 48 home runs in 1971 while playing for the Chicago Cubs. Also recognized for contributions to the teams with home run hitting prowess and offensive contributions during the prime years.
Hit 442 home runs during MLB career
Led the National League with 48 home runs in 1971
Other People Born on December 21st
Thomas Chipman McRae
Governor of Arkansas, lawyer
Born
December 21st, 1851 173 years ago
Died
1929 96 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 26th Governor of Arkansas from 1913 to 1917. Focused on progressive reforms, including improvements in education, public health, and infrastructure. Played a significant role in state politics and advocated for better labor laws. Prior to governorship, held positions in the Arkansas House of Representatives and the Arkansas Senate.
Continue ReadingRebecca West
English author and literary critic
Born
December 21st, 1892 132 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1983 42 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent English author and critic, gained recognition for both fiction and non-fiction works. Explored themes of politics, society, and feminism. Most acclaimed for the novel 'The Fountain Overflows,' published in 1956, which is noted for its characterization and narrative style. Contributed significantly to literary criticism through essays and reviews in various periodicals. Received several honors throughout the career, including the English-speaking Union's Golden Pen Award.
Continue ReadingAnthony Powell
English soldier and author
Born
December 21st, 1905 119 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2000 25 years ago — 94 years old
Served in the British Army during World War II. Began writing novels after the war, with a significant focus on English society. Authored the twelve-volume work 'A Dance to the Music of Time,' which explored themes of time, memory, and the passage of life. Received various literary accolades during a prolific writing career, contributing essays and criticism as well.
Continue ReadingIris Cummings
Swimmer and aviator
Born
December 21st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2025 0 years ago — 104 years old
Accomplished in both swimming and aviation, Cummings made a significant mark in both fields. In swimming, participation in national championships showcased exceptional skills. A notable achievement includes winning several gold medals at the National Women's Championships. In aviation, Cummings broke barriers as one of the early female aviators, obtaining a pilot's license and contributing to the promotion of women in aviation. Cummings' dual career illustrates the blend of athleticism and adventurous spirit, paving the way for future generations in both sports and aviation.
Continue ReadingJoe Paterno
American football coach at Penn State
Born
December 21st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2012 13 years ago — 85 years old
A college football coach, led the Penn State Nittany Lions for 46 seasons. Achieved the most wins in NCAA Division I football history at the time of retirement. Coached the team to two national championships and numerous bowl game victories. Developed a reputation for his commitment to academic integrity and player development throughout his tenure.
Continue ReadingLuis Arturo González López
Guatemalan supreme court judge
Born
December 21st, 1900 124 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1965 60 years ago — 64 years old
Served as a Supreme Court judge in Guatemala and briefly held the position of acting president during a period of political turmoil. His tenure reflected a significant time in Guatemalan governance, primarily in the mid-20th century. Demonstrated commitment to legal principles and played a role in the administration of justice during challenging times for the nation, which faced various political and social issues.
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