Dick Miller
Actor in Gremlins and The Terminator
An American actor recognized for roles in multiple cult films and television shows. Gained acclaim for performances in 'Gremlins' as Murray Futterman and in 'The Terminator' as a pawn shop owner. Active in the film industry for several decades, contributing to both comedic and horror genres. Appeared in numerous Roger Corman productions and became a familiar face in B-movies.
Portrayed Murray Futterman in Gremlins
Played the pawn shop owner in The Terminator
Featured in several Roger Corman films
Other People Born on December 25th
Pope Pius VI
Pope and Papal diplomat; Concordat of 1776
Born
December 25th, 1717 307 years ago
Died
1799 226 years ago — 82 years old
Papal reign spanned from 1775 to 1799. Focused on diplomatic relations during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution. Engaged in negotiations with various monarchs and states to maintain the integrity of the papacy. Strengthened the church's presence in the Americas through the Concordat of 1776 with Spain. Faced challenges from the encroaching secular powers and the rise of revolutionary sentiments, ultimately leading to imprisonment and exile by the French in 1798.
Continue ReadingErnest L. Massad
American General and military leader
Born
December 25th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1993 32 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a general in the United States Army. Held significant command positions during the Vietnam War. His military career extended over three decades, with key roles in various operations and leadership training. Participated in efforts to modernize the Army, focusing on improved strategies and tactics.
Continue ReadingFrançoise Dürr
Tennis player and coach, French Open champion
Born
December 25th, 1942 82 years ago
A prominent tennis player, achieved recognition in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the French Open singles title in 1967, marking a significant highlight in a successful career. Excelled in doubles as well, securing multiple Grand Slam titles. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of future tennis talent. Became involved in various tennis-related initiatives and organizational roles.
Continue ReadingZaib-un-Nissa Hamidullah
Journalist and author of India-Pakistan
Born
December 25th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1921, a prominent journalist and author focused on socio-political issues in India and Pakistan. Worked as a pioneer in women's rights advocacy and wrote extensively on gender equality. Contributed to various publications, bringing attention to pressing social issues faced by women and minorities in the region. Played a significant role in shaping modern discourse around women's empowerment during a transformative period in South Asian history.
Continue ReadingRobert Huff
English race car driver and champion.
Born
December 25th, 1979 45 years ago
A professional race car driver, competed in multiple racing series including touring cars. Achieved significant success in the World Touring Car Championship, driving for teams such as SEAT and Chevrolet. Secured the championship title in 2012, showcasing skill and consistency throughout the season. Participated in various other racing disciplines, demonstrating versatility and competitiveness on the track.
Continue ReadingBenjamin Pierce
American soldier and 11th NH Governor
Born
December 25th, 1757 267 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1839 186 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the military during the War of 1812, achieving the rank of brigadier general. Elected as the 11th Governor of New Hampshire, holding office from 1827 to 1828. Played a significant role in local and state politics, contributing to the governance and development of New Hampshire during his tenure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 30th
Charles I of England
Monarch of England, Scotland, and Ireland
Born
November 19th, 1600 425 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1649 376 years ago — 48 years old
Ruled as King of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1625 until execution in 1649. Engaged in conflicts with Parliament, leading to the English Civil War. Advocated for the divine right of kings and faced opposition from various factions. Imprisoned, tried, and executed for treason, marking a pivotal moment in British history. His reign was characterized by political strife and religious tensions.
Continue ReadingFrancisco Flores Pérez
Salvadorian politician and president
Born
October 17th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2016 9 years ago — 56 years old
Served as President of El Salvador from 1999 to 2004. Prior to the presidency, held the position of Minister of Finance and played a crucial role in economic reforms. Implemented policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and reducing poverty. Oversaw major initiatives in education and health care during the presidential term. After leaving office, faced legal challenges and controversy related to alleged corruption and mismanagement.
Continue ReadingHuntz Hall
American actor in comedy films
Born
August 15th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1999 26 years ago — 79 years old
An actor recognized for comedic performances in films and television, including the 'Bowery Boys' series. Active primarily from the 1930s to the 1950s, contributed to the popularity of the low-budget comedy genre during that era. Frequently collaborated with other actors in the series, establishing a notable presence in American cinema.
Continue ReadingDamião de Góis
Portuguese historian and philosopher
Born
February 2nd, 1502 523 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1574 451 years ago — 71 years old
Played a significant role in the development of historiography in Portugal during the 16th century. Contributed to the understanding of historical events through works such as "Crónica do Reino de Portugal", which provided a detailed account of Portuguese history. Engaged with humanist ideas and was associated with notable figures of the Renaissance, enhancing the intellectual discourse of the time. Despite facing political challenges, maintained a commitment to documenting and analyzing Portuguese history.
Continue ReadingManuel de Abreu
Brazilian physician and engineer
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1962 63 years ago — 68 years old
Graduated in medicine and engineering, contributed to the development of various medical practices. Played a significant role in public health initiatives in Brazil. Engaged in research that aimed to improve healthcare systems and medical technology. Involved in educational endeavors to advance medical knowledge.
Continue ReadingJohn Bardeen
Physicist and engineer, co-inventor of transistor
Born
May 23rd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1991 34 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to the field of physics included the co-invention of the transistor and the theory of superconductivity. Bardeen was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics twice, first in 1956 for the invention of the transistor, and again in 1972 for his work on superconductivity. His collaboration with William Shockley and Walter Brattain at Bell Labs led to significant advancements in electronics. In addition to his practical innovations, Bardeen also made contributions to theoretical physics through research on wave mechanics and quantum theory. He held positions at the University of Illinois, where he influenced future generations of physicists and engineers.
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