Erastus Corning
American politician and businessman
Served as the mayor of Albany, New York for a total of 20 years across several non-consecutive terms. Engaged in multiple business ventures, including contributing to the development of the railroad industry in New York. Corning also played a significant role in local politics and governance, influencing infrastructure and economic policies during the mid-19th century.
Served as mayor of Albany, New York for 20 years
Contributed to railroad development in New York
Other People Born on December 14th
Clark Terry
Trumpet player and composer
Born
December 14th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent trumpet player, composer, and educator, made significant contributions to jazz music over a career spanning several decades. Played with notable bands including the Duke Ellington Orchestra and the Count Basie Orchestra. Composed multiple pieces for jazz ensembles and worked as a music educator, influencing countless students. Developed innovative trumpet techniques and contributed to the advancement of jazz pedagogy through teaching and workshops.
Continue ReadingJames T. Aubrey
American broadcaster and studio executive
Born
December 14th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in American broadcasting, significant contributions were made to the television industry during the mid-20th century. Played a crucial role as the president of CBS Television and later as the president of MGM Studios. Oversaw the production and distribution of various influential television shows and movies. Instrumental in reshaping programming strategies that led to increased viewership and greater network revenues.
Continue ReadingKoos Rietkerk
Dutch lawyer and Minister of the Interior
Born
December 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 59 years old
A Dutch lawyer and politician served as Minister of the Interior from 1973 to 1977. Engaged in various political roles, contributions included overseeing important reforms in administrative laws and regional governance. Active in enhancing the relationship between the central government and local authorities, which shaped local governance policies during tenure. Competed in political debates and discussions across national platforms, lending expertise in guiding legislative matters for the country.
Continue ReadingJunior J. Spurrier
American sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 14th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a sergeant in the United States Army during World War II. Displayed extraordinary bravery in combat while serving with the 27th Infantry Regiment. Was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions taken during the Battle of Buna-Gona in Papua New Guinea in 1942, where demonstrated exceptional leadership and valor in the face of enemy fire.
Continue ReadingErnie Davis
American football player, Heisman Trophy winner
Born
December 14th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1963 62 years ago — 23 years old
Played college football at Syracuse University, leading the team to a national championship in 1959. Became the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy in 1961. Selected first overall in the 1962 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins but was traded to the Cleveland Browns. Suffered from leukemia, which shortened professional career.
Continue ReadingLewis Arquette
Actor in 'The Waltons' and 'The Great Outdoors'
Born
December 14th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 66 years old
An American actor, producer, and screenwriter, contributed to the film and television industry from the 1960s until the early 2000s. Appeared in a variety of television shows and movies, achieving recognition for performances in 'The Waltons', 'The Great Outdoors', and 'The Shadow'. Worked across multiple genres, including drama and comedy. Also undertook roles behind the scenes as a producer and screenwriter, showcasing a multifaceted involvement in the creation of visual content.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 9th
Hans von Dohnányi
German jurist and political dissident
Born
January 1st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1945 80 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1902, contributed to German law as a prominent jurist and opposed the Nazi regime. Engaged in resistance activities against totalitarianism during World War II, becoming involved with a conspiracy to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Worked in coordination with military officials and other dissidents. Arrested in 1943 by the Gestapo, imprisoned, and executed for his resistance efforts.
Continue ReadingJohn Clarke
Comedian and satirist from New Zealand
Born
July 29th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2017 8 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent comedian and writer, this individual gained recognition for sharp political satire and humor. In Australia, collaborations included work with the ABC network, notably in the series 'Clarke & Dawe', which featured satirical interviews reflecting current events. A proficient writer, contributions to television and radio showcased wit and insight into political and social issues. Also, authored books that further exemplified comedic narrative. This comedian's style combined clever language with astute observations, resonating with audiences across both New Zealand and Australia until 2017.
Continue ReadingPat Flaherty
Race car driver and Indy 500 champion
Born
January 6th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2002 23 years ago — 76 years old
A successful race car driver specializing in open-wheel racing. Achieved notable success in the Indianapolis 500, securing victory in 1956. Competed in various other racing events during the 1950s and 1960s, establishing a reputation within the motorsport community. Participated in the AAA and USAC racing series, contributing to the competitive landscape of American auto racing during that era.
Continue ReadingAelay Narendra
Indian politician and public servant
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 68 years old
Aelay Narendra was an Indian politician associated with the Indian National Congress party. He served as a Member of Parliament representing the Tirupati constituency in Andhra Pradesh. His political career included significant engagement in local governance and social welfare initiatives. Notably, he contributed to various legislative measures aimed at regional development and public welfare. He held office during a period marked by substantial changes within Indian politics and worked closely with community leaders to address local issues. His tenure encompassed efforts to promote education and healthcare in underprivileged areas.
Continue ReadingFrank Lloyd Wright
Architect known for Fallingwater design
Born
June 8th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1959 66 years ago — 91 years old
An American architect, prominent in the 20th century, contributed to the design of numerous iconic buildings. Developed an architectural style called organic architecture that harmonizes structures with their environment. Designed Fallingwater, a house over a waterfall, showcasing innovative cantilevered structures. Other notable works include the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, which features a unique spiral design. Wright's philosophy emphasized the integration of architecture and nature, profoundly influencing modern architectural practices.
Continue ReadingDMX
Rapper and actor, famous for 'Ruff Ryders Anthem'
Born
December 18th, 1970 55 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 50 years old
An influential rapper and actor from the United States, gained recognition in the late 1990s. Debut album 'It's Dark and Hell Is Hot' released in 1998 reached multi-platinum status. Featured hit singles like 'Party Up (Up In Here)' and 'X Gon' Give It to Ya.' Starred in films such as 'Belly' and 'Romeo Must Die.' Won multiple awards, including American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards. Known for distinctive raspy voice and personal struggles, which were openly discussed in later interviews. Continued to perform and make music until death in 2021.
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