Emmett Kelly
Clown and actor with a signature character
An American clown and actor, created the iconic character, Weary Willie. This character, characterized by his sad demeanor and hobo appearance, became a symbol of the circus world. Kelly started his career in vaudeville before joining the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. He gained recognition for his ability to blend humor with pathos, which resonated with audiences. The clown's portrayal often included poignant moments that highlighted the struggles of life while maintaining a comedic element. Kelly also appeared in several films and television shows, further solidifying his legacy within the entertainment industry. His contributions to clowning and performance art were significant to the culture of American entertainment during the mid-20th century.
Created the Weary Willie character
Performed with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
Appeared in movies and television shows
Other People Born on December 9th
Mat Latos
Baseball pitcher with All-Star selection
Born
December 9th, 1987 38 years ago
Drafted in 2006, played professionally in Major League Baseball. Teams included the San Diego Padres, Cincinnati Reds, and Miami Marlins. Achieved an All-Star selection in 2010 while with the Padres, recognized for his pitching skills. Contributed to the Reds’ postseason in 2012, showcasing a strong performance during the playoffs. Had a notable career with several victories and a respectable earned run average.
Continue ReadingGerald Henderson Jr.
Professional basketball player
Born
December 9th, 1987 38 years ago
A professional basketball player who played for several teams in the NBA. Drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats in 2009, contributed to the team's efforts in the league. Later played for the Portland Trail Blazers and the Philadelphia 76ers. Recognized for scoring ability and defensive skills throughout his career. Participated in the 2016 NBA Playoffs with the Miami Heat, showcasing versatility on the court.
Continue ReadingKostas Giannoulis
Professional Greek footballer
Born
December 9th, 1987 38 years ago
Professional footballer played primarily as a left-back. Started career at Iraklis Thessaloniki, where performances drew attention. Transferred to PAOK in 2015, winning multiple domestic titles. Had a loan spell at English club Norwich City, contributing to the team's promotion to the Premier League and appearing in the top flight. Giannoulis has also represented the Greek national team since 2020.
Continue ReadingKyle Connor
Ice hockey player, Winnipeg Jets forward
Born
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago
An American ice hockey player spent significant time as a forward for the Winnipeg Jets in the National Hockey League (NHL). After being drafted 17th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, achieved notable success in his rookie season. Contributed to the Jets' playoff runs, making a strong impact in postseason competitions. Achieved career milestones, including multiple 30-goal seasons and showcasing exceptional scoring ability.
Continue ReadingKwadwo Asamoah
Ghanaian footballer and midfielder
Born
December 9th, 1988 37 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder, achieving recognition in European football. Joined Atalanta in 2021 after a successful tenure with Inter Milan, where he won multiple Serie A titles. Previously played for Udinese, contributing significantly to the team's midfield. Represented Ghana internationally, participating in the FIFA World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. Known for exceptional dribbling skills and versatility on the pitch, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Continue ReadingEric Bledsoe
Professional basketball player, NBA
Born
December 9th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional basketball player, primarily played as a point guard. Spent significant time in the NBA with the Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, and Milwaukee Bucks. Contributed to the Bucks' victory in the 2021 NBA Championship. Known for strong defensive skills and solid scoring ability. Played college basketball at the University of Kentucky.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 28th
James Strachan-Davidson
Classical scholar and translator
Born
October 22nd, 1843 182 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1916 109 years ago — 72 years old
Engaged in classical scholarship with a focus on Greek literature and philosophy. Served in academic administration at various institutions, contributing to educational development. Translated significant works, making ancient texts accessible to a wider audience. Authored several academic publications that enhanced the understanding of classical studies and contributed to scholarly discourse.
Continue ReadingValdemar II of Denmark
Danish King and military leader
Born
1170 856 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1241 784 years ago — 71 years old
Ruled Denmark from 1202 to 1241, Valdemar II significantly expanded Danish territory and influence through military campaigns and strategic marriages. His reign included the consolidation of power through the annexation of territories in the Baltic Sea region. Valdemar led campaigns against opponents in Sweden and Pomerania, establishing Denmark as a dominant power in Northern Europe. He faced internal conflicts and challenges to his authority but maintained control over the kingdom until his death in 1241. Valdemar's legacy includes the promotion of trade and the strengthening of royal authority.
Continue ReadingEmperor Go-Toba
Emperor of Japan and poet
Born
August 6th, 1180 845 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1239 786 years ago — 58 years old
Emperor Go-Toba reigned over Japan during the late Heian period and early Kamakura period. Ascending to the throne in 1183, his reign was marked by political strife and the rise of the warrior class. Go-Toba witnessed the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate, which led to a significant shift of power away from the imperial court. He was an accomplished poet and patron of the arts, contributing to the flourishing of Japanese poetry during his time. Go-Toba also attempted to regain imperial power through various political maneuvers but faced resistance from the shogunate. After his abdication in 1198, he continued to influence the court and the arts until his death in 1239.
Continue ReadingKatharine Lee Bates
Poet and songwriter of 'America the Beautiful'
Born
August 12th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1929 96 years ago — 69 years old
An American poet and songwriter contributed significantly to American literature and culture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Bates wrote the lyrics to 'America the Beautiful' in 1893, inspired by a trip to Pikes Peak in Colorado. The poem reflected her love for the American landscape and ideals. Additionally, Bates authored several other works, including essays and children's literature, and held a position as a professor of English at Wellesley College for over 30 years. Her literary contributions extended beyond poetry, encouraging the appreciation of American patriotic themes through her writings.
Continue ReadingShin Kanemaru
Japanese Deputy Prime Minister
Born
September 17th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1996 29 years ago — 81 years old
Served as Deputy Prime Minister of Japan and held various prominent political roles throughout a lengthy career. Played a significant part in the Liberal Democratic Party's policies during the 1980s and 1990s. His influence was particularly noted in the realms of domestic and international affairs, where he contributed to economic policy and Japan's post-war development. Engaged in diplomatic relations and worked closely with other political figures to navigate challenges during changing political landscapes. Kanemaru's political legacy in Japan is marked by his long tenure and active involvement in national governance.
Continue ReadingIvan the Terrible
Russian Tsar and first ruler of Russia
Born
August 25th, 1530 495 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1584 441 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the Tsar of Russia from 1547 until death in 1584. The first ruler to be crowned as Tsar, Ivan centralized power and expanded the territory of Russia. Through military campaigns, he expanded into Siberia, gaining significant land and resources. His reign was marked by the establishment of the Oprichnina, a policy that involved political repression and the creation of a loyal military force. His legacy is characterized by both his expansionist policies and the sociopolitical turmoil of his reign.
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