Eva Nansen
Norwegian mezzo-soprano and skiing pioneer
Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a prominent mezzo-soprano singer achieved recognition in the world of opera and concert performances. Her contributions to the art of singing were complemented by notable performances in various opera houses across Europe. Additionally, the individual made significant strides in promoting women's skiing, advocating for women's participation in the sport at a time when it was largely male-dominated. Through participation in ski events and visibility in the skiing community, the individual helped facilitate the acceptance of women in competitive skiing.
Performed in major European opera houses
Promoted women's participation in skiing
Other People Born on December 17th
Jasmine Armfield
English actress in 'EastEnders'
Born
December 17th, 1998 27 years ago
Debuted in acting with the role of Bex Fowler in the BBC One soap opera 'EastEnders'. Joined the cast in 2014 and portrayed the character until 2020. The character's storylines included significant issues such as mental health and teenage struggles, which gained attention during her tenure on the show. Additionally, Armfield participated in various stage productions and has been involved in charity work supporting mental health awareness. With her performance, contributed to the ongoing conversations around youth issues within the realm of television.
Continue ReadingPrince Joachim of Prussia
German Prince and military officer
Born
December 17th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 30 years old
Born into the House of Hohenzollern, served as an officer in the German Army during World War I. Held the rank of lieutenant and became a prominent figure in military circles. After the war, navigated the political landscape of post-war Germany and was involved in various charitable activities and organizations. Contributed to the preservation of the history and legacy of the Prussian royal family. Spent the later years of life managing family estates and engaged in public life before passing away.
Continue ReadingSimo Häyhä
Finland's legendary World War II sniper
Born
December 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2002 23 years ago — 96 years old
A Finnish soldier achieved significant notoriety during the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union. Renowned for exceptional marksmanship skills, recorded over 500 confirmed kills as a sniper. Utilized a Finnish M28/30 rifle and took advantage of the winter landscape to conceal movements. Adopted a strategy that involved minimizing exposure and maximizing stealth, earning the nickname 'White Death.' Survived serious injuries and continued to lead a private life after the war until passing away in 2002.
Continue ReadingPaul César Helleu
French painter and etcher
Born
December 17th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1927 98 years ago — 67 years old
Engaged in the art movement known as Impressionism, created numerous portraits and depictions of fashionable society. Worked closely with artists like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas. Developed a unique style characterized by the use of pastels and etching techniques. Exhibited widely in Paris and gained recognition for contributions to both painting and printmaking. Notable works include portraits of high-society women, capturing the essence of Belle Époque Paris.
Continue ReadingJack L. Chalker
American author of speculative fiction
Born
December 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2005 20 years ago — 60 years old
An American author focused on speculative fiction, produced numerous novels and series throughout the late 20th century. Chalker explored themes of science fiction, fantasy, and adventure, appealing to a wide range of readers. His most notable work, the Well World series, consists of several interconnected novels detailing an expansive universe. Chalker also published works under different pseudonyms and contributed to various magazines. He was active in the writing community and participated in numerous conventions.
Continue ReadingAnthony Wood
English historian and author
Born
December 17th, 1632 393 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1695 330 years ago — 62 years old
Born in 1632, a prominent historian and author focused on documenting the history of Oxford. Published notable works including 'The History and Antiquities of the University of Oxford', which provided detailed accounts of the university's origins, growth, and notable figures. His methodologies influenced future historical research, emphasizing primary sources and personal accounts. His contributions significantly shaped the understanding of early modern English history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 9th
Jovit Baldivino
Singer and actor, champion of talent show
Born
October 16th, 1993 32 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2022 3 years ago — 29 years old
Gained fame after winning a popular talent competition in the Philippines, showcasing musical talent and charisma. Released hit songs that resonated with audiences, including 'Paano Na Kaya'. Opened doors in the entertainment industry as a performer in music and acting, appearing in various television shows and concert performances. Joined the cast of popular programs, contributing to his recognition in both music and acting spheres.
Continue ReadingGeorges Dufrénoy
French painter and academic
Born
June 20th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1943 82 years ago — 73 years old
A painter and academic active in the early to mid-20th century. Associated with the Fauvism movement, contributed to the development of modern French painting. Served as a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, influencing a generation of artists. Engaged with various artistic styles, maintaining a focus on landscape and portrait painting throughout the career.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Brunetière
French literary critic and scholar
Born
July 19th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1906 119 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent literary critic and scholar specializing in French literature, contributions focused on the analysis of drama and novels during the late 19th century. He served as a professor at the Collège de France, influencing many through lectures and publications. Significant works include 'Les Écrivains de la France' which outlined the achievements of French novelists and 'L'Évolution de la poésie lyrique en France' examining the development of French lyric poetry. Brunetière played a key role in the establishment of the modern examination of literature, advocating for the importance of literary criticism in understanding cultural currents.
Continue ReadingGene Barry
American actor from "Bat Masterson"
Born
June 14th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old
An American actor, recognized primarily for work on stage and screen. Gained prominence in the television series "Bat Masterson" portraying the titular character. Achieved notable success in the 1960s with performances in several musical theater productions, including "Show Boat" and "Fanny." Appeared in films such as "The War of the Worlds" and "The Black Sleep." Also recognized for roles in various television movies and mini-series throughout the 1980s and 1990s, maintaining a long-lasting presence in the entertainment industry until retirement.
Continue ReadingSpeedy Duncan
American football player, 1969 Pro Bowler
Born
August 10th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 79 years old
A professional American football player played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Duncan played for the San Diego Chargers, where he contributed significantly to the team’s defense. Over the course of his career, he intercepted numerous passes and returned kicks, showcasing notable speed and agility on the field. He had a standout season in 1969, earning a trip to the Pro Bowl, which is awarded to the league's top players. His time in the NFL left a lasting impression, particularly during his years with the Chargers.
Continue ReadingFulton J. Sheen
Archbishop and television personality
Born
May 8th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1979 46 years ago — 84 years old
An American archbishop, played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the mid-20th century. Gained prominence as a television personality, hosting the program 'Life is Worth Living' which aired from 1952 to 1957. Authored numerous books on faith and spirituality that reached a wide audience. Became a prominent figure in religious broadcasting, contributing to the dialogue on social issues from a Catholic perspective. Served as Bishop of Rochester and later as an auxiliary bishop of New York. His work in media helped to modernize the Church's approach to engaging with the public.
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