Gaylord Perry
Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher
This individual played in Major League Baseball for 22 seasons, primarily as a pitcher. A two-time Cy Young Award winner, achieved success with the San Francisco Giants, Cleveland Indians, and other teams. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991. Known for unique pitching styles, including the use of spitballs, contributed to a career total of over 3,500 strikeouts. Also served as a coach after retiring from playing, influencing new generations of pitchers.
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991
Two-time Cy Young Award winner
Other People Born on September 15th
György Lázár
Hungarian politician, Prime Minister
Born
September 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 50th Prime Minister of Hungary from 1994 to 1998. Played a significant role in the Socialist Party and contributed to Hungary’s economic reforms during the transition from socialism to a market economy. Focused on health care and education reforms during the time in office. After leaving the prime ministership, remained active in Hungarian politics and was involved in various public service roles.
Continue ReadingBruno Hoffmann
Glass harp player and composer
Born
September 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1991 34 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent glass harp player, contributed significantly to the artistic expression of glass music. Created and performed numerous compositions that showcased the unique sound of the glass harp, an instrument crafted from varying sizes of glass bowls. Gained recognition for performances that blended classical and contemporary styles, capturing the interest of audiences across Europe. Participated in various concerts and festivals, illustrating the versatility and beauty of the glass harp. Helped to revive interest in this rare instrument during the 20th century, inspiring a new generation of musicians.
Continue ReadingUmberto II of Italy
Last King of Italy
Born
September 15th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1983 42 years ago — 78 years old
Reigned as the last King of Italy in 1946 for a brief period. His reign followed the fall of fascism and culminated in a referendum that abolished the monarchy. After the monarchy was abolished, lived in exile in Switzerland until death in 1983. The political climate during his reign marked a significant transition for Italy as the monarchy was replaced by a republic.
Continue ReadingEva Burrows
Salvation Army General and Leader
Born
September 15th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
Served as the 13th General of The Salvation Army, leading the organization from 1993 until 1999. Worked towards the expansion of The Salvation Army's services worldwide and focused on social justice issues. Advocated for the homeless, marginalized communities, and various humanitarian efforts. Contributed to the growth of The Salvation Army in Australia and internationally, emphasizing the role of women in leadership within the organization.
Continue ReadingJenna Marbles
YouTuber and comedian on YouTube
Born
September 15th, 1986 39 years ago
A prominent figure on YouTube, achieved widespread recognition for creating humorous content. Launched a YouTube channel in 2010, quickly gaining a massive following with comedic sketches, vlogs, and challenges. Also engaged in pet-related content featuring various pets. Ceased regular uploads in 2020 but left a significant cultural imprint on the platform.
Continue ReadingDonald Bailey
Engineer, designer of the Bailey bridge
Born
September 15th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1985 40 years ago — 83 years old
An English engineer specialized in bridge design. Developed the Bailey bridge during World War II, which provided rapid and efficient solutions for military logistics. The design facilitated troop movements and the delivery of supplies across difficult terrains. Subsequently, the Bailey bridge became widely used in civilian applications, showcasing versatility in various engineering contexts. The bridge's modular design allowed for quick assembly and disassembly, becoming critical in wartime and disaster relief scenarios.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 1st
Maurice Greene
English organist and composer of church music
Born
August 12th, 1696 329 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1755 270 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1696, a prominent English organist and composer. Served as the organist at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Contributed significantly to the body of sacred music in the early 18th century. Composed several anthems and services, establishing a legacy within English choral music. His works were influential in the development of hymnody and church music during this period.
Continue ReadingBernhard Schmidt
Astronomer and inventor of the Schmidt camera
Born
April 11th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1935 90 years ago — 56 years old
An Estonian-German astronomer and optician contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through the invention of the Schmidt camera, an optical device that improved wide-field astrophotography. His work enabled astronomers to capture images of celestial objects with enhanced clarity and field of view. The Schmidt camera became a crucial instrument in many observatories around the world, facilitating numerous discoveries in the study of the universe. Schmidt also engaged in various optical experiments and contributed to advancements in lens design, promoting innovation in astronomical instrumentation during his career.
Continue ReadingAlvin Ailey
Choreographer and founder of Ailey American Dance Theater
Born
January 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1989 36 years ago — 58 years old
Ailey established a significant presence in American dance, focusing on African-American cultural experiences. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, which became a leading company in modern dance, showcasing a repertoire that celebrated African-American heritage. Ailey's choreography often combined elements from African-American spirituals and modern dance styles. One of the most acclaimed works, 'Revelations,' premiered in 1960 and continues to be performed worldwide, highlighting themes of struggle and triumph. Ailey's innovative approach transformed the landscape of American dance and broadened the appeal of modern dance to include audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Continue ReadingPrince Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld
Dutch noble and environmental advocate
Born
June 29th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2004 21 years ago — 93 years old
Born into a German noble family, a prince served in the Luftwaffe during World War II before moving to the Netherlands. He married Princess Juliana, who later became queen, solidifying his position within Dutch royalty. Alongside royal duties, he became involved in various environmental initiatives, founding the World Wildlife Fund in 1961 and serving as its first president. His dedication to conservation led to significant efforts in raising awareness about environmental protection and sustainable development. His legacy includes contributions to both royal engagements and global environmental movements.
Continue ReadingAleister Crowley
Occultist and author of The Book of the Law
Born
October 12th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1947 78 years ago — 72 years old
Born in England, a prominent figure in the early 20th-century occult movement. Developed a number of spiritual philosophies and practices, often branded as Thelema. Authored several influential texts on magic and mysticism, including 'The Book of the Law' which outlined the principles of Thelema. Founded the religious philosophy and spiritual system known as Thelema, which emphasized individual will and personal freedom. Became involved with various magical orders, including the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. Influenced modern esoteric thought and practices through writings and public persona.
Continue ReadingArnie Robinson
American athlete, long jump champion
Born
April 7th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2020 5 years ago — 72 years old
An accomplished long jumper, excelled in athletics during the 1970s. Won a gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Set a personal best of 8.35 meters during his career. Competed for the University of California, Los Angeles and won numerous championships at the collegiate level. Overcame numerous challenges to establish a prominent presence in the sport and contributed to the athletic community through mentorship.
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