Edward Bunker
Author and screenwriter for 'Dog Day Afternoon'
An American author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to literature and film. Wrote several novels, including 'No Beast So Fierce' and 'Little Boy Blue'. He served time in prison, which deeply influenced his writing. Transitioned to screenwriting and produced the screenplay for 'Dog Day Afternoon', which received critical acclaim. Also appeared as an actor in films such as 'The Long Good Friday' and 'Runaway Train'.
Authored 'No Beast So Fierce'
Wrote 'Dog Day Afternoon' screenplay
Acted in 'Runaway Train'
Other People Born on December 31st
Billy Snedden
Australian politician and Attorney-General
Born
December 31st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1987 38 years ago — 60 years old
Served as the 17th Attorney-General of Australia from 1971 to 1972, playing a significant role in legal reform during tenure. Held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Education and Minister for Services and Property. Elected as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the Liberal Party for the Melbourne electorate of Bruce from 1955 to 1983. Contributed to party leadership as the Opposition Leader from 1972 to 1974. Involved in shaping Australian law and policy during a transformative period in Australian politics.
Continue ReadingPhill Kline
American lawyer and Kansas Attorney General
Born
December 31st, 1959 65 years ago
Graduated from the University of Kansas and the University of Kansas School of Law. Served as an Assistant Attorney General in Kansas. Elected as the Kansas Attorney General from 2003 to 2007. His tenure included significant legal battles related to abortion laws and voter registration issues. After leaving office, engaged in private legal practice and became involved in political advocacy within conservative circles.
Continue ReadingMarie d'Agoult
Historian and author of the 19th century
Born
December 31st, 1805 219 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1876 149 years ago — 70 years old
Born into a wealthy family, contributed to French letters and historical scholarship during the 19th century. Engaged in the Romantic movement, edited and published works that highlighted the significance of modern history and culture. Notably, wrote about her experiences and observations in the literary scene of her time, including her relationship with composer Franz Liszt, which influenced her writing. Her efforts in establishing French history as a subject of academic inquiry paved the way for future historians.
Continue ReadingHugh McElhenny
American football running back, Hall of Famer
Born
December 31st, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 94 years old
Played college football at the University of Washington. Entered the NFL in 1952 with the San Francisco 49ers. Achieved significant success as a running back, recognized for exceptional speed and agility. Participated in five Pro Bowls and was a First-Team All-Pro selection three times. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1970, solidifying a legacy in the sport. After retiring, served as a coach and mentor in various capacities.
Continue ReadingCharles Cornwallis
English general and Governor-General of India
Born
December 31st, 1738 286 years ago
Died
1805 220 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a British Army officer and a politician. Achieved the rank of general and was appointed as the 3rd Governor-General of India. Oversaw significant military campaigns during the American Revolutionary War, including the surrender at Yorktown in 1781, which marked a turning point in the conflict. Implemented reforms in India during his tenure, focusing on the administration and development of resources. His military career extended into various theaters including the Caribbean and North America.
Continue ReadingAlex Salmond
Scottish politician, First Minister of Scotland
Born
December 31st, 1954 70 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 69 years old
An economist and politician, served as the First Minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014. Played a key role in the Scottish independence movement and led the Scottish National Party (SNP) during significant electoral successes. Oversaw the 2014 independence referendum, a pivotal moment in Scotland's political history. After leaving office, continued to engage in political discourse and advocacy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 19th
Elmer Valo
Baseball player and coach, 1949 All-Star
Born
March 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1998 27 years ago — 77 years old
An American baseball player and coach whose career spanned from 1940 to 1965. Played as an outfielder for various teams including the Philadelphia Athletics and the Brooklyn Dodgers. Selected as an All-Star in 1949. Transitioned into coaching and contributed to the development of players in minor league baseball.
Continue ReadingCécile Aubry
French actress and screenwriter, Belle et Sébastien
Born
August 3rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2010 15 years ago — 81 years old
An actress and filmmaker, contributed significantly to French cinema and television. Became widely recognized for creating and starring in the television series 'Belle et Sébastien,' which followed the adventures of a boy and his dog in the French Alps. Also worked as a director and screenwriter, creating works that resonated with audiences in the mid-20th century. Focused on themes of nature, friendship, and childhood innocence, establishing a connection with the viewers through engaging storytelling and relatable characters.
Continue ReadingKazimierz Sabbat
Polish soldier and politician, President
Born
February 27th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1989 36 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1913, a Polish soldier and politician served as the President of the Polish Government in Exile from 1976 until 1986. During World War II, engaged with the Polish forces and played a role in the fight against the Axis powers. After the war, settled in exile and continued to represent Polish interests while advocating for Poland's sovereignty and independence. Contributed to discussions regarding Poland's future political landscape and the émigré community's role within it.
Continue ReadingRutger Hauer
Actor in Blade Runner and The Hitcher
Born
January 23rd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2019 6 years ago — 75 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a career in acting began in the 1960s with stage performances before transitioning to film. Gained international recognition for portraying Roy Batty in the science fiction classic 'Blade Runner' in 1982. Other notable roles included the titular character in 'The Hitcher' and a significant part in 'Ladyhawke.' Hauer's contributions extended beyond acting to directing and producing, establishing a notable presence in European and American cinema. In later years, his involvement in charity work highlighted various social issues, particularly AIDS awareness. Hauer passed away in 2019, leaving a legacy of memorable performances.
Continue ReadingPaolo Borsellino
Italian lawyer and anti-mafia judge
Born
January 19th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1992 33 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent Italian lawyer and judge focused on fighting organized crime, particularly the Sicilian Mafia. Played a crucial role in the Maxi Trial, which prosecuted over 400 Mafia members. Borsellino worked closely with Giovanni Falcone, another anti-Mafia judge, to combat criminal influences in Italy. Tragically, Borsellino was assassinated in a car bombing in 1992, shortly after Falcone's assassination, highlighting the dangers faced by those opposing the Mafia. His work contributed to a national and international understanding of Mafia operations and their challenges.
Continue ReadingLefty Frizzell
Singer-songwriter of honky-tonk music
Born
March 31st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1975 50 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1928, a significant figure in country music, contributed greatly to the honky-tonk genre. Gained popularity in the 1950s with a unique vocal style and heartfelt lyrics. Recorded hits that captured the experiences of everyday life. Influenced many artists in the country music scene. Died in 1975, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.
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