Floyd Little
American football player, Hall of Famer
A prominent American football player, achieved recognition in the National Football League (NFL) primarily as a running back for the Denver Broncos. Played from 1967 to 1975, earning five Pro Bowl selections during his career. Accumulated over 6,323 rushing yards and scored 43 touchdowns, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, honoring exceptional achievements in professional football. His impact extended beyond the field, engaging in various community and charitable activities throughout his life.
Five-time Pro Bowl selection
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Other People Born on July 4th
Thomas John Barnardo
Philanthropist and founder of homes
Born
July 4th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1905 120 years ago — 60 years old
Born in Ireland in 1845, Barnardo established a series of homes for orphaned and disadvantaged children in England. After experiencing poverty in his youth, he dedicated his life to social reform and child welfare. He founded the Barnardo's charity, which continues to support children and families today. The charity gained recognition for its comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of vulnerable children, emphasizing education, health, and well-being.
Continue ReadingBill Withers
Singer-songwriter with iconic hits
Born
July 4th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2020 5 years ago — 81 years old
An American singer-songwriter gained prominence in the 1970s with a distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics. Best known for hits like 'Ain't No Sunshine,' 'Lean on Me,' and 'Lovely Day,' Withers' music explored themes of love and resilience. His work earned multiple Grammy Awards, showcasing a talent for blending soul, R&B, and folk influences. Withers released several albums, including 'Just As I Am' and 'Still Bill,' which featured chart-topping singles and became staples in music history. After generously stepping away from the spotlight, the artist continued to influence many across various genres until passing away in 2020.
Continue ReadingEmerson Boozer
American football player, sportscaster
Born
July 4th, 1943 82 years ago
An American football player and sportscaster, achieved prominence as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the New York Jets from 1966 to 1975, contributing to the team's victory in Super Bowl III. Transitioned to a career in broadcasting following retirement from professional football, providing analysis and commentary for various sports programs.
Continue ReadingJassem Alwan
Syrian Army Officer
Born
July 4th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Syrian Army. Played a significant role during the early years of the Syrian Arab Republic and was involved in major military operations and political developments within the country. Contributed to military strategy and leadership during critical periods of conflict. His career included engagements that shaped the military landscape of Syria.
Continue ReadingHal Lanier
Baseball player and manager
Born
July 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball primarily for the San Francisco Giants and the Houston Astros. Transitioned to coaching and managing, taking the role of manager for the Triple-A affiliates of the Houston Astros. Also served as a minor league manager, contributing to player development and team strategies.
Continue ReadingRobert K. Merton
Sociologist known for social theory
Born
July 4th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 2003 22 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent sociologist and academic contributed significantly to the field of sociology through major theories and concepts. Developed the notion of the 'self-fulfilling prophecy' and worked on the concept of 'anomie'. Authored foundational texts such as 'Social Theory and Social Structure', which explored the interplay between social structure and individual behavior. Engaged with various sociological issues throughout his career and influenced many students and academics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Francesco Guardi
Italian painter of Venetian landscapes
Born
October 5th, 1712 313 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1793 232 years ago — 80 years old
Active during the 18th century, this painter specialized in capriccios, and vedutas, focusing on the Venetian landscape. His work captured the vibrancy and architectural beauty of Venice, contributing significantly to the development of the landscape genre. As a teacher, he influenced future generations of artists. Although associated with the Rococo style, his compositions reflect a unique interpretation that merged realism with artistry. His later works evolved towards a more impressionistic style, demonstrating an innovative approach to color and light.
Continue ReadingArthur Rudolph
German-American aerospace engineer
Born
November 9th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 89 years old
An engineer who played a key role in the development of the Saturn V rocket, instrumental in the Apollo program that landed humans on the Moon. His career included significant contributions to the design and testing of rocket systems. Emigrated to the United States after World War II, contributing to NASA's early space exploration efforts and advancing aerospace technology. Later became involved in controversies regarding his past during the war.
Continue ReadingClaiborne Pell
American politician and senator
Born
November 22nd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2009 16 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Rhode Island from 1961 to 1997. Contributed to education and foreign affairs, particularly in the areas of federal education funding and international exchanges. Played a significant role in the establishment of the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Advocated for the Pell Grant program, which provides federal funding for low-income college students.
Continue ReadingJuanita Moore
American actress with Oscar nomination
Born
October 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 99 years old
Acted in numerous films and television shows throughout a lengthy career. Gained recognition for a performance in the film 'Imitation of Life' (1959), which explored themes of race and motherhood. Appeared in various other projects, including the television series 'Perry Mason' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Imitation of Life'.
Continue ReadingOmar Karami
Lebanese politician, 58th Prime Minister
Born
September 7th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent Lebanese lawyer and politician, served as the 58th Prime Minister of Lebanon. Initially held the office from 2004 to 2005, and returned to power in 2011. Actively participated in Lebanese politics during a tumultuous period marked by political assassinations and civil unrest. Efforts were focused on rebuilding the political landscape of Lebanon, addressing issues of governance and national unity. Resigned in 2015 amidst challenges faced by the government and societal demands for reform. Contributed to discussions around Lebanon’s political framework and the role of leadership in navigating the country’s complex dynamics.
Continue ReadingArleigh Burke
Admiral and Chief of Naval Operations
Born
October 19th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1996 29 years ago — 94 years old
Served in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of Admiral. Played a significant role during World War II, commanding destroyer squadron engagements in the Pacific Theatre. Became Chief of Naval Operations from 1955 to 1961, overseeing critical advancements in naval strategy and technology. Contributed to the development of the Navy's missile programs and the overall modernization of the fleet. Held the title of a four-star Admiral, with a career marked by strategic naval leadership.
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