David Stern
NBA Commissioner overseeing growth
Served as the Commissioner of the National Basketball Association from 1984 to 2014. During tenure, expanded league to 30 teams and significantly increased television rights and revenue. Played a key role in the establishment of the WNBA in 1996. Oversaw the implementation of the salary cap and revenue-sharing systems, transforming the financial landscape of professional basketball. Was involved in the global promotion of basketball, which led to international players joining the league.
Expanded NBA to 30 teams
Established the WNBA
Increased league revenue significantly
Other People Born on September 22nd
Paul Muni
American actor in biographical films
Born
September 22nd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1967 58 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Ukraine and later relocating to the United States, this actor gained prominence in the early 20th century. Renowned for remarkable performances in biographical films, portrayal of complex characters became a hallmark. Achieved significant acclaim on stage before transitioning to film, winning an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'The Life of Emile Zola'. The career spanned multiple decades, showcasing a versatile range in diverse cinematic roles.
Continue ReadingTenali Rama
Poet at Krishnadevaraya's court
Born
September 22nd, 1480 545 years ago
Died
1528 497 years ago — 48 years old
A celebrated poet in the court of Krishnadevaraya, Tenali Rama contributed significantly to Kannada literature during the 16th century. His wit and wisdom combined with poetic talent endeared him to the king. His works often featured humor and moral lessons, blending storytelling with deep philosophical insights. Tenali Rama's narratives often showcased his cleverness, enabling him to solve difficult problems presented by the king and his courtiers. His legacy continues to be celebrated in literature and folk tales in India, preserving the cultural milieu of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Continue ReadingPhilip Stanhope
English politician and Lord Lieutenant
Born
September 22nd, 1694 331 years ago
Died
1773 252 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1694, the 4th Earl of Chesterfield held several notable political roles in Britain, particularly serving as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland from 1737 to 1741. His tenure was marked by attempts to address governance issues in Ireland during a period of significant tension. Additionally, he was a prominent member of the House of Lords and contributed to political discourse in the 18th century. Apart from politics, he is recognized for his literary work, especially for a series of letters to his son which provided advice on etiquette and conduct.
Continue ReadingMartha Scott
American actress, acclaimed for Stage and Film
Born
September 22nd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2003 22 years ago — 90 years old
An American actress gained prominence in theater and film throughout the mid-20th century. Primarily recognized for stage roles, significant achievements include playing Emily in the original Broadway production of 'Our Town.' Transitioned successfully to film, starring in notable movies such as 'The Ten Commandments' and 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs.' In addition to stage and film work, appeared in television productions, contributing to the medium in the 1970s and 1980s. Awards included a Tony Award for her performance in 'Our Town,' showcasing her talent in live performing arts.
Continue ReadingChristabel Pankhurst
English women's rights activist
Born
September 22nd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1958 67 years ago — 77 years old
An influential activist focused on women's suffrage. Co-founded the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1903, which employed more militant tactics to advocate for women's voting rights in the United Kingdom. Played a significant role in organizing events, rallies, and campaigns to raise awareness of women's issues. Participated in numerous hunger strikes while imprisoned for activism, drawing attention to the suffrage movement's cause. Advocated for women's rights throughout her life, even after the passage of the Representation of the People Act in 1918, which granted some women the right to vote.
Continue ReadingArthur Pryor
Trombonist and bandleader of Pryor's Band
Born
September 22nd, 1870 155 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1942 83 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1870, this American trombonist gained prominence as a composer and bandleader. Pryor played a significant role in the development of the trombone as a solo instrument during the early 20th century. He established Pryor's Band, which performed widely and contributed to the popularity of brass band music. His compositions embraced various genres, including marches and arrangements for band, showcasing the trombone’s capabilities. The musician's efforts helped elevate the status of band music in American culture. He remained active in the music scene until his passing in 1942.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Duff Cooper
English politician and diplomat
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1954 71 years ago — 64 years old
Served as an English politician and diplomat, holding significant positions during and after World War II. Acted as the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster from 1940 to 1945. Contributed to foreign policy discussions and was involved in key political decisions of the era. Participated actively in the Conservative Party and was a member of Parliament for various constituencies. The career included the role of Minister of Information, focusing on propaganda and public communication during the war.
Continue ReadingLouis Auguste Blanqui
French revolutionary activist and thinker
Born
1805 220 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1881 144 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in the French socialist movement, Blanqui advocated for revolutionary change and worker rights. He participated in several insurrections during the 19th century, including the Paris Commune of 1871. Blanqui emphasized the importance of organized action and was a proponent of a dictatorship of the proletariat to achieve socialism. His writings and theories on revolution influenced numerous socialist thinkers and movements. He spent a considerable portion of his life in imprisonment due to his political activities, which further solidified his revolutionary image.
Continue ReadingMustafa Necati
Turkish civil servant and politician
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1929 96 years ago — 35 years old
Served as a prominent civil servant and politician in Turkey, holding the position of Minister of Environment and Urban Planning. Played a significant role in the development of environmental policies and urban planning initiatives during the early years of the Turkish Republic. Contributed to the modernization efforts of the country in the post-Ottoman era, focusing on infrastructure and city planning that aligned with the goals of contemporary governance.
Continue ReadingShirley Chisholm
American politician and educator
Born
November 30th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old
An influential educator and politician, played a pivotal role in American politics as the first African American woman elected to the United States Congress. Served from 1969 to 1983, representing New York's 12th congressional district. Advocate for social justice and equality, focused on issues such as education, healthcare, and women's rights. Ran for the Democratic nomination for President in 1972, becoming the first major party African American candidate for the presidency. Worked tirelessly to bring attention to the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingHelen Wills
Tennis player and coach, 7-time Wimbledon champion
Born
October 6th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1998 27 years ago — 92 years old
A significant tennis player and coach, this individual won a total of 31 Grand Slam titles, including 7 Wimbledon championships and 4 U.S. National Championships. Dominating the sport in the early 20th century, this person was an influential figure in tennis, known for remarkable skill and technique on the court. After a successful playing career, transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of future generations of tennis players.
Continue ReadingNay Win Maung
Burmese physician and activist
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 50 years old
A physician and businessman active in Myanmar, focused on healthcare reforms. Advocated for patient rights and medical education. Engaged in various civic activities aimed at improving public health and welfare. Contributed to the establishment of healthcare programs that addressed rural health issues. Held multiple roles in medical associations and worked to raise awareness about health policy.
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