Eleanor Holm

Swimmer and actress at the Olympics

Eleanor Holm - Swimmer and actress at the Olympics
Born

December 6th, 1912
112 years ago

Died

January 31st, 2004
21 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent swimmer and actress, this individual competed in the 1932 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where an impressive performance led to winning a gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke. Apart from swimming, she had a successful career in film, most notably appearing in the 1934 movie 'The Taming of the Shrew' alongside notable actors such as Basil Rathbone. The journey included a unique twist, as this swimmer was removed from the Olympic team due to her participation in a Hollywood party, which drew attention to the intersection of athletics and celebrity culture during the early 20th century.

Winning gold in the 100-meter backstroke at the 1932 Olympics

Acting in 'The Taming of the Shrew'

Other People Born on December 6th

Shekhar Kapur

Indian film director and producer, 'Lagaan'
Born
December 6th, 1945 79 years ago

An acclaimed director, producer, and screenwriter, a significant figure in Indian cinema, renowned for establishing a footprint in global film. Directed the highly praised films 'Bandit Queen' and 'Lagaan', the latter receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Served as a producer for various projects, contributing to the development of film narratives in both India and abroad. In addition, focused on creating work that resonates with Indian cultural themes while appealing to broader international audiences.

Continue Reading

Sean Ervine

Cricketer; played for Zimbabwe
Born
December 6th, 1982 42 years ago

A cricketer from Zimbabwe, made significant contributions to the national team. Debuted in international cricket in 2003 for Zimbabwe. Played primarily as an all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball. Participated in several One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test matches, making a memorable impact in both formats. In 2010, moved to play domestic cricket in England and became part of the Hampshire County Cricket Club. Continued to participate actively in domestic leagues and represented different teams during his career, while also being a pivotal player for Zimbabwe.

Continue Reading

Adrian Fenty

American politician, former D.C. Mayor
Born
December 6th, 1970 54 years ago

Served as the 6th Mayor of the District of Columbia from 2007 to 2011. Fenty focused on education reform, crime reduction, and economic development during the administration. Oversaw the construction of new schools and parks, as well as initiatives to improve public safety. Lost re-election in 2010 amidst some controversy over his management style and policies.

Continue Reading

Eliot Porter

Photographer and environmentalist
Born
December 6th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1990 34 years ago — 88 years old

American photographer and academic specialized in color nature photography. Played a significant role in the conservation movement through stunning images that highlighted the beauty of natural landscapes. Published numerous books, including 'In Wildness Is the Preservation of the World' which featured landscapes of the American wilderness and advocated for environmental preservation. Worked closely with notable organizations such as the Sierra Club, helping to promote conservation through visual media.

Continue Reading

Evelyn Underhill

Mystic and author of spiritual works
Born
December 6th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1941 84 years ago — 65 years old

Born on December 6, 1875, an English mystic and author significantly contributed to Christian mysticism. A major figure in the early 20th century spiritual movement, she wrote extensively on the relationship between faith and experience. Her most notable work, 'Mysticism: A Study in the Nature and Development of Spiritual Consciousness,' explored the depth of mystical experiences across various traditions. Underhill's writings synthesized theological principles with insights from personal mystical experiences. A pioneering female figure in spiritual literature, she engaged in lectures and discussions about spirituality.

Continue Reading

Stefanie Scott

Actress and singer known for 'Ant Farm'
Born
December 6th, 1996 28 years ago

Born in 1996, this American actress and singer gained recognition for her role in the Disney Channel series 'Ant Farm', which aired from 2011 to 2014. A versatile performer, she also appeared in the film 'Insidious: Chapter 3' and had roles in various television shows, including 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno'. In addition to acting, she pursued a music career, releasing singles that showcased her vocal talent. Her work has garnered a following among younger audiences, leading to opportunities in both television and film.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 31st

Ryōgen

Japanese monk and abbot at Onjō-ji
Died
January 31st, 985 1040 years ago — None years old

A prominent Japanese monk and abbot, played a significant role in the Tendai school of Buddhism during the Heian period. Established the Onjō-ji temple, which became a key center for Buddhist practice and education. Contributed to the development of the esoteric teachings within Tendai, influencing subsequent generations of monks. Promoted the integration of esoteric practices with traditional teachings of Buddhism, helping to shape the spiritual landscape of Japan.

Continue Reading

Xuande

Emperor of China during the Ming Dynasty
Born
1398 627 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1435 590 years ago — 37 years old

Ruled as the fifth emperor of the Ming Dynasty from 1425 to 1435. Oversaw significant developments in Chinese culture and the arts. Strengthened the central government and promoted trade. Established peace through diplomatic relations with neighboring states.

Continue Reading

Mircea I

Prince of Wallachia, military leader
Born
1355 670 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1418 607 years ago — 63 years old

Ruled as prince of Wallachia in the late 14th and early 15th centuries, overseeing a period of consolidation and territorial defense against Ottoman invasions. Strengthened the principality through military campaigns and alliances, notably engaging in conflicts against neighboring powers like the Ottoman Empire. Established trade routes and improved administrative frameworks. His reign is considered a pivotal period in Wallachian history.

Continue Reading

Karl Selter

Estonian Foreign Affairs Minister
Born
June 24th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1958 67 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed to Estonia's foreign policy as the 14th Minister of Foreign Affairs. Served in the role during a significant period of Estonian statehood. Engage in diplomatic efforts to strengthen international ties. Influenced foreign relations amidst regional challenges.

Continue Reading

Meher Baba

Spiritual Master and Philanthropist
Born
February 25th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1969 56 years ago — 74 years old

A spiritual master, emphasized the importance of love as the foundational element of spiritual progress. Guided followers through his teachings on self-realization and the nature of God. Advocated for universal love and spiritual unity, attracting a dedicated following across the world. Remained silent for much of his life, using gestures to communicate his messages. Established various organizations for spiritual education and humanitarian work.

Continue Reading

Charles Spurgeon

Pastor and author of numerous sermons
Born
June 19th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1892 133 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent English pastor and author, known for leadership at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London. Delivered thousands of sermons, which were compiled into numerous volumes, making significant theological contributions. Established a charitable organization, the Stockwell Orphanage, to aid orphans and the needy. Published works that emphasized practical Christianity and the importance of personal faith.

Continue Reading