Dean Rusk
U.S. Secretary of State during Vietnam War
Served as the 54th United States Secretary of State from 1961 to 1969. Guided U.S. foreign policy during significant events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. Played a critical role in sustaining U.S. involvement in Vietnam, believing in the policy of containment to prevent the spread of communism. Held previous positions including Assistant Secretary of State for Far Eastern Affairs. Worked at the Rockefeller Foundation after leaving public office.
Served as Secretary of State under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson
Participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis negotiations
Supported the escalation of U.S. military involvement in Vietnam
Other People Born on February 9th
Sheraldo Becker
Surinamese footballer, FC Utrecht winger
Born
February 9th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer from Suriname, primarily played as a winger. Started his career in the youth teams of FC Utrecht, progressing to the first team in 2013. Played in the Eredivisie, contributing to FC Utrecht's competitive performances. In 2021, joined the Dutch national team and represented the nation in international matches. Known for speed and skill on the ball, played a key role in club strategies and formations.
Continue ReadingClete Boyer
Baseball player and manager, All-Star
Born
February 9th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2007 18 years ago — 70 years old
Boyer played Major League Baseball as a third baseman and was a key player for teams including the New York Yankees and the Atlanta Braves. His MLB career spanned from 1955 to 1969. He earned selection to the All-Star Game in 1964. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and managed various minor league teams, contributing to the development of young players. Boyer was also a noted defensive player, recognized for his skills on the field.
Continue ReadingAnthony Hope
English author and playwright, The Prisoner of Zenda
Born
February 9th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1933 92 years ago — 70 years old
An English author and playwright contributed significantly to literature in the late 19th century. Best remembered for the adventure novel 'The Prisoner of Zenda' published in 1894, which became a classic of the genre and inspired numerous adaptations. Other works include 'Rupert of Hentzau' and various plays. Hope's writing combined elements of romance and adventure, establishing a template followed by later writers of romantic fiction. In addition to fiction, engaged in theatrical works, producing several plays during his career. Hope's narrative style and innovative storylines left a lasting legacy in English literature.
Continue ReadingHeather Angel
Actress in classic films and television
Born
February 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1986 39 years ago — 77 years old
Born in England and later becoming a naturalized American, this actress had a career spanning several decades. Initially gaining prominence in the 1930s, she appeared in films such as 'The Cat and the Canary' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Transitioning to television, she played roles in series including 'The Lone Ranger' and 'The Man Behind the Badge'. Her performances showcased a range of characters, contributing to both film and television during her career.
Continue ReadingHara Takashi
Japanese Prime Minister and politician
Born
February 9th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1921 104 years ago — 65 years old
Held the position of the 10th Prime Minister of Japan from 1918 until assassination in 1921. Advocated for political reform and modernization of Japan's governance. Played a significant role in the expansion of Japan's political party system, promoting the greater involvement of the populace in politics. His policies aimed to address social issues and responded to the growing pressure for democratic reforms within the country.
Continue ReadingDan Shulman
Canadian sportscaster with ESPN
Born
February 9th, 1967 58 years ago
A prominent sportscaster, this individual gained recognition primarily for work with ESPN, covering Major League Baseball and NCAA basketball. Long-standing association with the Toronto Blue Jays as a play-by-play announcer established a significant presence in Canadian sports broadcasting. In addition to live game commentary, contributed to various sports-related shows and discussions, enhancing sports media coverage. The individual also participated in international sports events, such as the World Baseball Classic.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 20th
Per-Ingvar Brånemark
Surgeon and inventor of osseointegration
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
A Swedish surgeon and academic, contributed significantly to the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Developed the concept of osseointegration, which led to the successful integration of dental implants into bone. Established a technique that has provided a reliable solution for rehabilitation of edentulous patients. His work paved the way for advancements in dental implants and orthopedic applications.
Continue ReadingEzra Vogel
American sociologist and author
Born
July 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2020 5 years ago — 90 years old
A prominent sociologist, significantly contributed to the study of East Asian societies, particularly Japan. Served as a professor at Harvard University and authored influential works about Japanese culture, society, and politics. The book, 'Japan as Number One', provided insights into Japan's economic practices and societal structures, becoming a key reference in understanding Japan's post-war success. Additionally, studied Chinese society and political changes, contributing to comparative sociology and fostering greater understanding between the U.S. and Asia.
Continue ReadingRiccardo Freda
Film director and screenwriter of horror
Born
1909 117 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old
An Egyptian-Italian director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the horror genre in Italian cinema. Early career included working in various roles within the film industry. Gained recognition for horror films in the 1960s and 1970s. Renowned for directing notable works such as 'I Vampiri' (1956), often credited as the first Italian horror film. Also directed 'The Horrible Dr. Hichcock' (1962) and 'Murder Obsession' (1981), which showcased a blend of psychological drama and horror elements. Collaboration with prominent actors and technicians of the era established a distinctive style in horror filmmaking. Continued to influence filmmakers long after his films were released.
Continue ReadingDimitris Rontiris
Greek actor and director
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1981 44 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in Greek theater and cinema, this individual was influential in both acting and directing. Starting a career in the early 20th century, contributions included significant roles in various theatrical productions. The directing efforts spanned numerous successful plays and adaptations, shaping the landscape of Greek performing arts. Known for a dedication to the craft, involvement in the film industry marked a notable transition, with performances in important Greek films. The legacy remains evident in the continued appreciation for classic works and theater.
Continue ReadingHank Snow
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
May 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in country music, this artist began his career in the 1930s and achieved recognition for a unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Numerous hits appeared on the Billboard country charts, with particular success in the 1950s and 1960s. A significant moment came with the song 'I'm Movin' On,' which topped the charts and solidified his status in the genre. The artist also contributed to the establishment of the Grand Ole Opry, performing regularly and boosting the careers of many other musicians.
Continue ReadingBrittany Murphy
Actress from 'Clueless' and '8 Mile'
Born
November 10th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 32 years old
An American actress and singer gained prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Featured in the film 'Clueless' as the character Tai Frasier, which became a cultural touchstone. Starred alongside Eminem in '8 Mile', further solidifying a successful film career. Also lent voice to the character Luanne Platter in the animated series 'King of the Hill'. Her performances were noted for their charm and emotional depth, leading to a dedicated fan following. The early death at age 32 marked a tragic end to an evolving career in Hollywood.
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