Don James
American football coach and player.
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An American football player and coach, served as the head coach at the University of Washington from 1975 to 1992. Achieved significant success during tenure, leading the team to a national championship in 1991. Before coaching, played as a quarterback at the University of Washington and later served as an assistant coach at various institutions. Developed a reputation for strong defensive strategies and a disciplined approach to coaching, contributing to the team's consistent performances in the Pac-10.
Coached Washington to a national championship in 1991
Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014
Other People Born on December 31st
Ben Hannant
Rugby league player, played for Australia
Born
December 31st, 1984 41 years ago
This rugby league player was active in the National Rugby League (NRL) primarily during the 2000s and 2010s. Starting his career with the Brisbane Broncos, won the NRL Premiership in 2006. Later played for the Canterbury Bulldogs and the North Queensland Cowboys. Represented Australia internationally, participating in the 2010 Four Nations tournament.
Continue ReadingRyo Aitaka
Kickboxer and professional wrestler
Born
December 31st, 1989 36 years ago
Aitaka competed in the world of kickboxing and professional wrestling, achieving significant recognition in both fields. As a kickboxer, Aitaka participated in numerous competitions and demonstrated skill and technique that garnered attention. Transitioning to professional wrestling, Aitaka showcased athletic prowess in various promotions, building a reputation for engaging performances and exemplary in-ring abilities. This individual has contributed to both sports and has left a mark through dedication and exceptional talent.
Continue ReadingOdetta
Singer-songwriter and actress, 'Odetta Sings Folk Songs'
Born
December 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2008 17 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1930, this American singer-songwriter and guitarist significantly influenced the folk music revival of the 1960s. Renowned for a deep, powerful voice, performances included a mix of traditional spirituals and folk songs. An accomplished actress, appearances included roles in stage productions and television programs. Contributions to the civil rights movement were emphasized through music, rallying audiences with powerful anthems. Discography included numerous albums, with 'Odetta Sings Folk Songs' being particularly celebrated, showcasing a blend of genres and themes that resonated widely.
Continue ReadingLudovic Blas
French footballer playing for Nantes
Born
December 31st, 1997 28 years ago
A professional footballer from France specialized in attacking roles. Blas began his career at the youth academy of the French club Nantes. He made significant contributions to the team's offense, helping Nantes secure the 2021 Coupe de France title. Alongside his club achievements, he has represented the French national youth teams at various levels.
Continue ReadingNate Freiman
American baseball player, MLB debut in 2013
Born
December 31st, 1986 39 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a first baseman. Made MLB debut with the Oakland Athletics in 2013. Played for the Atlanta Braves and the Texas Rangers in the minor leagues. Achieved success in college baseball at Duke University before entering professional baseball. Notable for hitting significant home runs during his career.
Continue ReadingAmy Cure
Australian track cyclist and world champion
Born
December 31st, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in track cycling, achieving significant success in various championships. Captured multiple world titles in the team pursuit and scratch race events. Represented Australia at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics, contributing to the national team’s presence in international cycling competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Dave May
American baseball player with the Brewers
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 69 years old
A professional baseball player, played primarily as an outfielder. Spent significant time with the Milwaukee Brewers, and contributed to the team's competitive efforts during the 1970s and 1980s. Also played for the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Atlanta Braves. Achieved notable success in batting and was part of several teams that contended for division titles.
Continue ReadingBarbara Dane
Folk, blues, and jazz singer
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 97 years old
A celebrated folk, blues, and jazz singer emerged in the 1950s, recognized for a distinct voice and profound lyrics. Contributions to music spanned several decades, including performances at various prestigious venues and festivals. Advocacy for social justice and civil rights intertwined with musical career, amplifying important issues through art. Collaborated with other notable musicians, enriching the folk and jazz genres, and participated in cultural movements alongside significant artists of the time.
Continue ReadingChristophe de Margerie
Businessman and CEO of Total S.A.
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the Chairman and CEO of Total S.A., a major global oil and gas company. Played a key role in expanding Total's operations in various countries and was particularly involved in the development of liquefied natural gas projects. Advocated for the importance of energy in addressing global challenges. His leadership contributed to Total's position as a leading player in the energy industry until passing in an airplane accident in 2014.
Continue ReadingRené Burri
Photographer & journalist, Magnum Photos member
Born
April 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1933 in Switzerland, Burri developed an early interest in photography and studied at the School of Applied Arts in Zurich. He began his career as a photojournalist and later joined Magnum Photos in 1959. Burri's work primarily focused on documenting significant historical events and influential figures. His photographs illustrated the life of renowned personalities, particularly in the realm of politics and culture. A prominent body of work includes iconic images of Che Guevara and the architectural marvels of Brazil. Burri's photographs often mingled documentary style with artistic sensibility. Throughout his career, he received recognition for his important contributions to photojournalism and photography.
Continue ReadingRobert E. Kramek
Coast Guard admiral and leader
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old
Served as an admiral in the United States Coast Guard, leading various missions and operations. Held the position of Commandant from 1994 to 1998, overseeing the service during significant events including national security and maritime safety challenges. Contributed to developments in environmental protection, drug interdiction, and emergency response operations within the maritime domain.
Continue ReadingKazimierz Łaski
Economist and academic in Austria
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
An economist and academic active in Poland and Austria contributed significantly to economic theory and policy. Held various academic positions and was involved in research that advanced understanding of economic systems. Focused on the development of economic policy in post-communist countries, providing analysis and guidance for reforms. Published numerous articles and papers, influencing economic thought and policy in the region.
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