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
Alma Thomas
Painter and educator, celebrated for color field abstraction
Born
September 22nd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1978 48 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American painter and educator, contributions mainly focused on abstract expressionism and color field painting. As an educator, taught art in Washington D.C. for over 35 years, shaping numerous students. Gained national recognition in the 1960s for vibrant, colorful works showcasing joy and nature, particularly exemplified in painting 'Starry Night and the Moon'. In 1972, became the first African American woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City, further establishing a legacy in the art community.
Continue ReadingMichael Faraday
Physicist and Chemist; Electrochemistry Pioneer
Born
September 22nd, 1791 234 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1867 158 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1791, a prominent English physicist and chemist significantly contributed to the fields of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. Worked at the Royal Institution in London, where conducted groundbreaking experiments that laid the foundation for many technologies used today. Developed the concepts of electromagnetic fields and induction, leading to the invention of the electric motor. His work on electrolysis established fundamental laws still applied in modern chemistry.
Continue ReadingT. Somasekaram
Sri Lankan geographer and politician
Born
September 22nd, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 76 years old
Significant contributions to geography and public service occurred. Served as the 37th Surveyor General of Sri Lanka, overseeing land surveying and mapping. Played a crucial role in advancing geographic education and policy. Engaged in political activities, focusing on infrastructure development and land management. Helped shape national geographic standards and practices.
Continue ReadingBob Lemon
Baseball player and manager, All-Star pitcher
Born
September 22nd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 11th, 2000 26 years ago — 79 years old
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Cleveland Indians and the Chicago White Sox. Achieved three All-Star selections during the 1950s. After retiring as a player, managed several teams, including the New York Yankees, leading the team to a World Series championship in 1978. Developed a reputation for his strategic understanding of the game and ability to lead players effectively.
Continue ReadingDaniella Alonso
American actress known for roles in TV series
Born
September 22nd, 1978 47 years ago
Born in 1978, an American actress and model gained recognition for roles in television series. Appeared in the series 'The Night Shift' as Landry De La Cruz, and was featured in 'One Tree Hill' as Anna Taggaro. Additionally, had roles in 'Walker' and the horror film 'The Hills Have Eyes'. Active in the entertainment industry since the early 2000s, she has also worked in modeling and has been involved in various projects across different genres.
Continue ReadingTheodore Hook
Composer and educator of English music
Born
September 22nd, 1788 237 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1841 184 years ago — 52 years old
An English composer and educator, contributed significantly to the musical landscape of the 19th century. Focused on developing choral music and was active in composing operas, songs, and hymns. Established a career in music education, enhancing the skills of numerous musicians. Created several popular songs, including 'The 8th of January'. Notable for establishing the connection between music and education during a period of expanding public interest in music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Mario Cuomo
American politician and governor
Born
June 15th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 52nd Governor of New York from 1983 to 1994. Before taking office, practiced law and held the position of Secretary of State of New York. Renowned for eloquent speeches, particularly at the Democratic National Convention in 1984. Played a crucial role in advancing progressive policies in New York during tenure as governor. Contributed significantly to the state budget reform and education policy.
Continue ReadingTownes Van Zandt
Singer-songwriter known for poignant lyrics
Born
March 7th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1997 29 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent figure in American folk music, contributions spanned several decades from the 1960s. Renowned for a distinctive style, lyrical depth, and emotive performances, influenced the singer-songwriter genre. Inspired by traditional folk and country, created a significant body of work including multiple acclaimed albums. Collaborated with various artists and left a lasting legacy within the music community, despite struggles with personal issues and a turbulent lifestyle.
Continue ReadingFloyd Little
American football player, Hall of Famer
Born
July 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2021 5 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent American football player, achieved recognition in the National Football League (NFL) primarily as a running back for the Denver Broncos. Played from 1967 to 1975, earning five Pro Bowl selections during his career. Accumulated over 6,323 rushing yards and scored 43 touchdowns, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, honoring exceptional achievements in professional football. His impact extended beyond the field, engaging in various community and charitable activities throughout his life.
Continue ReadingOmar Karami
Lebanese politician, 58th Prime Minister
Born
September 7th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Lebanese lawyer and politician, served as the 58th Prime Minister of Lebanon. Initially held the office from 2004 to 2005, and returned to power in 2011. Actively participated in Lebanese politics during a tumultuous period marked by political assassinations and civil unrest. Efforts were focused on rebuilding the political landscape of Lebanon, addressing issues of governance and national unity. Resigned in 2015 amidst challenges faced by the government and societal demands for reform. Contributed to discussions around Lebanon’s political framework and the role of leadership in navigating the country’s complex dynamics.
Continue ReadingJames Francis Edward Stuart
Jacobite pretender and claimant to throne
Born
June 10th, 1688 338 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1766 260 years ago — 77 years old
James Francis Edward Stuart was a claimant to the British throne as James III of England and VIII of Scotland. He was the son of King James II and VII. Following the Glorious Revolution in 1688, which led to his father's exile, he became the focal point of Jacobite support. James led the Jacobite risings in an attempt to regain the throne, notably in 1715, but his efforts were unsuccessful. After the failure of these uprisings, he lived much of his life in exile in France and Italy. He was granted the title 'James III' and became a symbolic leader for Jacobite loyalists throughout the 18th century, even as the movement declined over time.
Continue ReadingCarle Hessay
German-Canadian painter with notable works
Born
November 30th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1978 48 years ago — 66 years old
A German-Canadian painter contributed to the art world through vivid landscapes and abstractions. Emigrating to Canada, adopted the country as a new home and adapted techniques influenced by his European roots. Hessay participated in multiple exhibitions across Canada, establishing a presence in the artistic community. His use of color and light captured the essence of the Canadian landscape, fostering appreciation for natural beauty in his works. Throughout his career, Hessay's paintings reflected the interplay of nature and form.
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