George Marshall
American general and Nobel laureate
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
United States
Links & References
A distinguished military leader and statesman, served as the 50th Secretary of State from 1947 to 1949. Played a pivotal role in post-World War II Europe through the Marshall Plan, which aimed to rebuild war-torn economies. Contributed significantly to military strategies during World War II, including the planning of the D-Day invasion. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953 for efforts in promoting world peace through economic recovery.
Implemented the Marshall Plan
Served as Army Chief of Staff during WWII
Received the Nobel Peace Prize
Other People Born on December 31st
Queen Kapiolani of Hawaii
Hawaiian monarch and cultural advocate
Born
December 31st, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1899 127 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1834, Kapiolani served as the queen consort of King David Kalakaua of Hawaii. She was a prominent figure in Hawaiian society and worked towards cultural preservation during a time of significant change. Kapiolani became well-known for promoting Hawaiian education and the arts. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Kapiolani Maternity Home, which provided healthcare for women and infants. Kapiolani's legacy included efforts in the revitalization of Hawaiian language and traditions amidst the influence of Western culture.
Continue ReadingHerman Boerhaave
Botanist and physician, Systema Plantarum
Born
December 31st, 1668 357 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1738 287 years ago — 69 years old
Contributions to botany and medicine established a foundation for modern medical education. Developed a systematic approach to plant classification that influenced future botanists. Authored several important texts, including 'Elementa Chemiae' and 'Systema Plantarum', which served as vital resources in both fields. Promoted clinical education for physicians and integrated theory with practice.
Continue ReadingMuhammad ibn al-Qasim
Umayyad general and conqueror
Born
December 31st, 695 1330 years ago
A prominent Umayyad general achieved significant military successes in the early 8th century. Commanded the conquest of Sindh, leading a campaign that brought large territories in present-day Pakistan under Umayyad control. Established a governing system that facilitated the spread of Islamic culture and administration in the region. His military strategies and leadership during the invasions laid the groundwork for Umayyad expansion into India.
Continue ReadingAlycia Parks
Tennis player with notable tournament wins
Born
December 31st, 2000 25 years ago
Competed in professional tennis, achieving significant rankings in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Gained attention for powerful serves and strong performance in both singles and doubles events. Participated in Grand Slam tournaments, marking a pivotal career stage. Received accolades for contributions to the sport, embodying competitive spirit at a young age.
Continue ReadingDennis Everberg
Swedish ice hockey player and Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1991 34 years ago
Played ice hockey primarily as a winger. Competed for the national team in international tournaments, including the Winter Olympics. Played in the Swedish Hockey League and North American leagues, showcasing skills in both domestic and international competitions. Gained recognition during stints with teams such as Modo Hockey and the Colorado Avalanche.
Continue ReadingWillye White
American long jumper and runner
Born
December 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2007 19 years ago — 67 years old
Competed in the Olympics in both track and field events, achieving notable success as a long jumper. Participated in five different Olympic Games from 1956 to 1972, securing a silver medal in long jump in 1964. Raced in various national and international competitions, earning recognition for athletic prowess and skill. Contributed to the development of future generations of athletes through coaching.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 16th
Audra Lindley
American actress and television star
Born
September 24th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1997 28 years ago — 79 years old
Born in 1918, an American actress gained prominence through her performances on stage and screen. Made significant contributions to television during the 1970s. Best recognized for portraying Helen Roper on the sitcom 'Three's Company'. Also had notable roles in the TV series 'The Ropers' and 'The Brady Bunch'.
Continue ReadingDaphne Caruana Galizia
Investigative journalist and blogger
Born
1964 62 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 53 years old
An investigative journalist and blogger, focused on political corruption and wrongdoing in Malta. Authored the popular blog 'Running Commentary', providing scrutiny of politicians and public officials. Contributed to various publications, including the Malta Independent and The Shift News. Reported extensively on the Panama Papers, revealing connections between Maltese officials and offshore companies. Death occurred in 2017 due to a car bomb explosion, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
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IndyCar driver, 2-time Indianapolis 500 winner
Born
June 22nd, 1978 47 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 33 years old
A successful racing driver, competed primarily in the IndyCar Series. Achieved significant recognition for winning the Indianapolis 500 twice in 2005 and 2012. Won the IndyCar Series championship in 2005, showcasing exceptional skill and determination throughout the season. Started racing at a young age in the UK before moving to the United States to further career in open-wheel racing. Tragically lost life in a racing accident during a 2011 event, leaving behind a legacy in the world of motorsport.
Continue ReadingLaurel Martyn
Ballerina and Choreographer with acclaim
Born
July 23rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 97 years old
An Australian ballerina and choreographer, celebrated for contributions to dance in Australia. Trained at the National Theatre Ballet School and performed with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Founded the Australian Ballet School, shaping future generations of dancers. Created numerous ballets, blending classical techniques with Australian themes. Collaborated with notable Australian artists and contributed to the development of contemporary dance in the region.
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German poet and playwright
Born
August 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1909 116 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1856, a prominent figure in the literary scene, engaged in both poetry and playwriting. Contributed significantly to the cultural fabric of the time through various works. Utilized themes of national identity and cultural heritage in literary creations. Active during a period of significant artistic expression and was involved in discussions surrounding the role of the arts in society.
Continue ReadingBarbara Billingsley
Actress in sitcom Leave It to Beaver
Born
December 22nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2010 15 years ago — 94 years old
An American actress gained recognition for the role of June Cleaver in the television series Leave It to Beaver, which aired from 1957 to 1963. The character became a symbol of the ideal suburban housewife. Billingsley also made appearances in other television shows and films, including The Care Bears Movie and various game shows. Her work extended into voice acting, where she voiced characters in animated series. Despite numerous roles, the iconic character of June Cleaver remained the most significant in defining her career.
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