Fletcher Henderson
American jazz bandleader and composer
Contributed significantly to the development of big band jazz in the 1920s and 1930s. Pioneered the use of arrangements in jazz music, helping to transform the genre from small ensembles to larger orchestral sounds. Led the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra, which featured prominent musicians of the era, including Louis Armstrong and Coleman Hawkins. Collaborated with Bessie Smith, providing arrangements for her recordings. Played a crucial role in popularizing swing music, bridging the gap between jazz and dance music.
Led the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra
Arranged music for Bessie Smith
Pioneered big band jazz arrangements
Other People Born on December 18th
Barbora Krejčíková
Czech tennis player, French Open champion
Born
December 18th, 1995 30 years ago
This athlete debuted professionally in 2013 and achieved significant success in singles and doubles tennis. The player won the women's singles title at the 2021 French Open, becoming the first Czech woman to win the tournament since 1981. Alongside her singles success, this athlete also excelled in doubles, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and ranking first in the WTA doubles rankings. Representing the Czech Republic, this player contributed to the country's success in the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingJayden Daniels
American football quarterback
Born
December 18th, 2000 25 years ago
A professional American football player, primarily played as a quarterback. Attended Louisiana State University, where contributed to the team's success. In 2023, achieved notable performance by leading the Tigers to significant victories in the Southeastern Conference. Known for a strong arm, mobility, and ability to command the offense effectively.
Continue ReadingAshley Benson
American actress known for Pretty Little Liars
Born
December 18th, 1989 36 years ago
An actress and singer, gained recognition for portraying Hanna Marin in the television series Pretty Little Liars, which aired from 2010 to 2017. Additionally, appeared in the films Spring Breakers and Pixels. Involved in music, releasing several singles. Gained a significant fanbase through social media platforms.
Continue ReadingJalen Johnson
Basketball player, Atlanta Hawks forward
Born
December 18th, 2001 24 years ago
Professional basketball player played for the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA. Developed skills during college basketball at Duke University, where contributed significantly to the team's performance. Entered the NBA Draft in 2021, showcasing abilities as a versatile forward. Participated in league games as part of the Hawks' roster, building reputation as an emerging talent.
Continue ReadingLizzie Deignan
Professional road racing cyclist
Born
December 18th, 1988 37 years ago
A professional road racing cyclist, achieved significant success in women's cycling. Won the UCI Women’s Road World Championships in 2015. Competed for Team Trek-Segafredo and has participated in multiple Grand Tours. Achieved podium finishes in several prestigious one-day races, including the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix.
Continue ReadingImad Wasim
Pakistani cricketer and all-rounder
Born
December 18th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, this cricketer made a name in international cricket as an all-rounder, contributing significantly as a left-arm orthodox spinner and a lower-order batsman. Represented Pakistan in formats such as One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 internationals. Played a crucial role in Pakistan's victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, showcasing strong performances with both bat and ball. Also had a successful domestic career, including stints in T20 leagues around the world.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 29th
Tomiko Itooka
Japanese supercentenarian
Born
May 23rd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2024 0 years ago — 116 years old
Born in Japan on May 23, 1908, lived through significant historical events, including two World Wars and profound societal changes. Achieved longevity, reaching supercentenarian status, which represents individuals aged 110 years or older. Became one of the oldest verified people in the world, contributing to studies on aging and its implications in society.
Continue ReadingJimmy Carter
39th President of the United States
Born
October 1st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2024 0 years ago — 100 years old
Served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. Before presidency, held the position of Governor of Georgia. Implemented policies focusing on human rights, energy conservation, and environmental protection. Achieved a major breakthrough in Middle East peace with the Camp David Accords in 1978. After leaving office, engaged in humanitarian efforts, notably through the Carter Center, promoting peace and democratic elections worldwide. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for efforts in peace negotiations and humanitarian work.
Continue ReadingDon Marquis
American author and playwright
Born
July 29th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1937 87 years ago — 59 years old
An author and playwright who gained prominence in the early 20th century through contributions to literature and journalism. Marquis created the characters Archy and Mehitabel, which featured in his newspaper columns and were later compiled into books. The writings combined humor and social commentary, reflecting the era's sentiments. Marquis also published several volumes of poetry and plays, showcasing a range of styles and themes. His work was influential in American literary circles and continues to be referenced in studies of early American humor.
Continue ReadingEdgar Savisaar
Estonian politician and minister
Born
May 31st, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2022 2 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1950, a prominent Estonian figure involved in politics during and after the Soviet era. Contributed to Estonia's independence movement in the late 1980s. Served as the Minister of the Interior in the first post-independence government. Played a key role in forming the first Estonian government after independence from the Soviet Union. Engaged in various political roles, including mayor of Tallinn. Established significant political parties influencing Estonian politics.
Continue ReadingDavid Levine
American artist, illustrator, caricaturist
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2009 15 years ago — 83 years old
An American artist and illustrator, achieved recognition for caricatures published in The New York Review of Books. Engaged with political and cultural themes, and contributed to the dialogue on contemporary issues through art. Created distinctive portraits that combined humor with sharp social commentary, illustrating leading figures from various fields including politics, literature, and science. Worked prolifically throughout a decades-long career, gaining acclaim for both artistic skill and insightful representations.
Continue ReadingOm Prakash Malhotra
Indian politician and governor
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2015 9 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a general in the Indian Army and later transitioned into politics. Held the position of the 25th Governor of Punjab. Involved in various initiatives regarding governance and military strategy during a significant period in India's history. Worked on issues related to state administration and public welfare, contributing to the political landscape of Punjab.
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