Dick Van Arsdale
American basketball player, All-Star
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Played basketball professionally in the NBA from 1965 to 1977. Spent the majority of career with the Phoenix Suns. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1970 and established a reputation as a skilled scorer and tenacious defender. After retirement, contributed to the sport as a coach and executive in the Suns' organization.
Played for the Phoenix Suns
Selected as an NBA All-Star in 1970
Contributed to the Suns' coaching staff
Other People Born on February 22nd
Devon Malcolm
Cricketer with England Test team
Born
February 22nd, 1963 63 years ago
Played international cricket for England from 1989 to 1996 as a fast bowler. Represented Birmingham City in domestic cricket. Made a notable debut against India in 1990, taking 9 wickets in the match. Achieved a career-best of 9 for 57 against South Africa in 1994. Contributed significantly to England's performance in the 1996 Cricket World Cup.
Continue ReadingKarol Świerczewski
Polish General during World War II
Born
February 22nd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1947 79 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1897, served in the Polish Army and later became a general. Participated in the Polish-Soviet War and was involved in resistance activities during World War II. Played a significant role as a commander of the First Polish Army during the liberation of Poland from German occupation. His military career continued in the post-war period, becoming a prominent figure in the Polish People's Army.
Continue ReadingVlas Chubar
Russian economist and politician
Born
February 22nd, 1891 135 years ago
Died
1939 87 years ago — 48 years old
Born in 1891, this individual was a prominent figure in the economic and political landscape of Soviet Russia. Acting as a key economist, he contributed significantly to financial policies and state planning during a transformative period in the early 20th century. Serving as a member of the Communist Party, he held various significant positions within the government, influencing economic strategies and reforms. His career included leadership roles that shaped agricultural policies and the management of the Soviet economy. The person's tenure spanned several crucial years, impacting the socio-economic structure of the country.
Continue ReadingSheila Hancock
Actress, author, and theatre personality
Born
February 22nd, 1933 93 years ago
An accomplished actress and author, this individual gained prominence in the British theatre scene as well as in television and film. Notable performances include roles in the television series 'The Last of the Summer Wine' and 'The Bed-Sitting Room'. In the theatre, significant work included performances in 'The Graduate' and various productions at the National Theatre. As an author, written works include autobiographies reflecting on personal experiences in the entertainment industry and life in general. Contributions to the arts extend beyond performance, involving advocacy for various social issues.
Continue ReadingEdward Gorey
Illustrator and poet, 'The Gashlycrumb Tinies'
Born
February 22nd, 1925 101 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2000 26 years ago — 75 years old
An illustrator and poet, created distinctive works known for their surreal and whimsical style. Worked primarily in the genres of books, theater, and animated films, with a notable emphasis on gothic themes and dark humor. Gained recognition for a unique artistic approach combining detailed illustrations and poetic narratives, often exploring macabre subject matter. Published over 100 books, collaborating with various authors, and produced artwork for stage productions, including ballet. Contributed illustrations to publications such as 'The New York Times' and 'The New Yorker'.
Continue ReadingSteve Barber
American baseball player, All-Star pitcher
Born
February 22nd, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 69 years old
Professional baseball player featured primarily as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played most of career with the Baltimore Orioles from 1959 to 1966. Selected as an All-Star in 1966, showcasing exceptional skills on the mound. Also played for the New York Yankees and the Atlanta Braves, contributing to each team's pitching rotation during his tenure. Gained recognition for strong performances during the 1960s, including a significant role during critical matchups.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Robert Henry Best
Journalist and WWII correspondent
Born
April 16th, 1896 130 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1952 73 years ago — 56 years old
A significant journalist, contributed to news coverage during World War II, particularly focusing on the European theater. Worked for various publications, including a notable tenure with the Chicago Times. Reported on key events and battles, providing detailed accounts that informed the public about the war's progress and implications. Best's career included coverage of significant political and military developments, gaining recognition for in-depth analysis and firsthand reporting from conflict zones.
Continue ReadingColonel Sanders
Founder of KFC and fried chicken legend
Born
September 9th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1980 45 years ago — 90 years old
Established the fast-food chain Kentucky Fried Chicken, which became a global brand. Developed a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices that contributed to the restaurant's distinctive flavor. Initially operated a roadside gas station and served meals to travelers, later focusing on the fried chicken business. Promoted the brand with a memorable image and personality that resonated with customers. Continued to represent KFC even after selling the franchise, becoming an enduring symbol of the brand.
Continue ReadingWu Zetian
Empress of the Zhou dynasty
Born
February 17th, 624 1402 years ago
Died
December 16th, 705 1320 years ago — 81 years old
Ruled as the only female emperor in Chinese history during the Zhou dynasty. Ascended to power initially as a concubine of Emperor Gaozong. After his death, took control of the throne and established the Zhou dynasty, which lasted from 690 to 705. Implemented significant reforms in the government and promoted Buddhism as a state religion. Enhanced the civil service examination system, which expanded the meritocratic bureaucracy.
Continue ReadingBilly Hamilton
Baseball player and manager
Born
February 16th, 1866 160 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1940 85 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent figure in 19th-century baseball, made significant contributions as both a player and a manager. Played for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies and the Cincinnati Reds, setting numerous records for stolen bases and runs during a time when the game was evolving. Transitioned to management after his playing career, overseeing various teams in the league, including the Boston Braves. His impact on the game remains noted in baseball history.
Continue ReadingLee Van Cleef
American Actor in Western Films
Born
January 9th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 64 years old
Lee Van Cleef was an American actor best recognized for roles in Western films and television series. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, a film career began in the mid-1950s. Van Cleef gained prominence through appearances in the 'Spaghetti Western' genre, particularly in collaboration with director Sergio Leone. Films such as 'A Fistful of Dollars' and 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' showcased his talent. He also appeared in the television series 'The Master' and 'High Noon, Part II: 30 Years Later'. His distinctive features and commanding screen presence contributed to his legacy in the film industry.
Continue ReadingKakuei Tanaka
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 4th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1993 32 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the 64th Prime Minister of Japan from 1972 to 1974. Played a significant role in Japan's post-war economic growth and focused on large-scale infrastructural projects. Involved in Japanese politics for decades, beginning his career as a member of the House of Representatives. Established the Tanaka Doctrine, promoting diplomacy and economic partnerships with Southeast Asia. Resigned amid a bribery scandal but left a lasting legacy on Japan’s modern political landscape.
Continue Reading