Giacomo Puccini
Italian composer of operas
An Italian composer of operas, recognized for contributions to the genre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Composed several prominent works, with notable operas including 'La Bohème', 'Tosca', and 'Madama Butterfly'. His compositions are characterized by their melodic richness and dramatic intensity, earning significant acclaim and enduring popularity in the operatic repertoire.
Composed 'La Bohème'
Composed 'Tosca'
Composed 'Madama Butterfly'
Other People Born on December 22nd
Moonbyul
South Korean rapper and vocalist
Born
December 22nd, 1992 33 years ago
Started a career in the music industry as a member of the South Korean girl group Mamamoo. Gained recognition for contributions as a rapper, vocalist, and songwriter within the group. Released solo music that showcases a blend of genres, including hip-hop and R&B. Participated in writing and composing numerous songs, enhancing the collective's artistic identity.
Continue ReadingLeigh Halfpenny
Welsh rugby player, 2013 Six Nations champion
Born
December 22nd, 1988 37 years ago
A rugby union player played as a full-back and winger. Competed for the British and Irish Lions in 2013 and 2017 tours. Represented Wales in multiple Six Nations Championships, contributing to the team’s success in 2013 with a Grand Slam title. Achieved individual accolades for kicking accuracy and was awarded the World Rugby Player of the Year in 2013. Played for professional clubs including Cardiff Blues and Toulon. Known for exceptional goal-kicking and defensive skills on the field.
Continue ReadingRaphaël Guerreiro
Portuguese footballer, key player at Dortmund
Born
December 22nd, 1993 32 years ago
A professional footballer played as a left-back and midfielder. Started career at Caen in France, then transferred to Lorient. Gained recognition for performances and joined Borussia Dortmund in 2016. Represented Portugal at multiple international tournaments, including the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup. Known for technical skills and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingSandra Kalniete
Latvian politician and diplomat
Born
December 22nd, 1952 73 years ago
A prominent figure in Latvian politics, served as the Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2002 to 2004. Played a significant role in Latvia's integration into the European Union and NATO. Appointed as a Member of the European Parliament, focusing on regional development and foreign affairs. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts and played a crucial role in shaping Latvia's foreign policy post-independence.
Continue ReadingJacob Stallings
Baseball catcher and Gold Glove winner
Born
December 22nd, 1989 36 years ago
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball, representing the Pittsburgh Pirates. Earned recognition for defensive skills, leading to a Rawlings Gold Glove Award in 2021. Contributed significantly to team strategy and performance during tenure.
Continue ReadingScott Darling
Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 22nd, 1988 37 years ago
An ice hockey goaltender who played in the NHL, prominent career included tenure with the Chicago Blackhawks. Achieved a Stanley Cup victory in 2015 as part of the Blackhawks roster. Also had stints with the Carolina Hurricanes, contributing as a key player in the net. Career marked by notable performances in playoff games, showcasing reliability and skill under pressure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Slobodan Praljak
Croatian general and military leader
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2017 8 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a general in the Croatian Army during the Croatian War of Independence. Held the position of Commander of the Herzeg-Bosnia military force. Engaged in various military operations during the conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later became a political figure, serving as a member of the Croatian Parliament. Gained international attention during a war crimes trial at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), where a conviction led to a dramatic courtroom event.
Continue ReadingMaurice Wilkes
Computer scientist; developed EDSAC
Born
June 26th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2010 15 years ago — 97 years old
A pioneer in computer science and physics, contributed significantly to the development of early computing technology. Developed the Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator (EDSAC), one of the first stored-program computers, which became operational in 1949. Played a critical role in the establishment of Cambridge University's Computer Laboratory and helped shape computer education and research. Engaged in various projects in computer architecture and programming languages, including the early development of the programming language ALGOL.
Continue ReadingHenry Kissinger
Political Scientist and Secretary of State
Born
May 27th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2023 2 years ago — 100 years old
A German-American political scientist and politician, served as the 56th United States Secretary of State from 1973 to 1977. Played a significant role in U.S. foreign policy during the Nixon and Ford administrations, focusing on the policy of détente with the Soviet Union and opening relations with China. Instrumental in the negotiation of the Paris Peace Accords, which aimed to establish peace in Vietnam and ended U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1973 for efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Vietnam, though his policies also faced criticism.
Continue ReadingPhilipp Nicodemus Frischlin
German philologist and mathematician
Born
September 22nd, 1547 478 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1590 435 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1547, a German philologist, mathematician, astronomer, and poet. Contributed significantly to the field of philology, focusing on classical languages and literature. Also engaged in mathematical studies, producing works that merged poetry with mathematical concepts. Worked on astronomical observations, further enhancing the understanding of celestial bodies during the Renaissance period. He held positions in various educational institutions where he combined teaching with scholarly pursuits.
Continue ReadingArlene Dahl
American actress and businesswoman
Born
August 11th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2021 4 years ago — 96 years old
An actress, businesswoman, and writer. Rose to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, specializing in roles that showcased beauty and charisma. Gained significant recognition for performances in films such as "Step by Step" and "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Transitioned into a successful business career, founding a beauty and wellness company. Authored several books, including works on beauty and personal development.
Continue ReadingJack Shields
Canadian politician and MP
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2004 21 years ago — 75 years old
Served as a member of Parliament in Canada. Held office in the House of Commons representing the electoral district of Bow River. Contributed to various legislative initiatives during tenure. Participated actively in parliamentary committees, focusing on issues affecting rural communities and local governance. Advocated for agricultural policies and rural development.
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