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
Dennis Armfield
Australian footballer and Carlton player
Born
December 22nd, 1986 39 years ago
Played professional Australian rules football for the Carlton Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). Made his debut in 2006 and became a versatile player, contributing as a defender and winger. Played a total of 139 games over his career, showcasing consistent performance on the field. Retired from professional football after the 2018 season, leaving a legacy within the club.
Continue ReadingJordin Sparks
Singer-songwriter and actress, 'American Idol' winner
Born
December 22nd, 1989 36 years ago
Won the sixth season of 'American Idol' in 2007, becoming the youngest winner at that time. Released a self-titled debut album that included hit singles such as 'This Is My Now' and 'Tattoo'. Returned to acting with roles in films such as 'Sparkle', alongside Whitney Houston. Additionally, participated in various philanthropic efforts and performed at numerous events.
Continue ReadingÉder
Footballer, Euro 2016 champion
Born
December 22nd, 1987 38 years ago
Bissau-Portuguese footballer played as a forward in various European leagues. Represented Portugal's national team and contributed to winning the UEFA Euro 2016, becoming a prominent figure in the tournament. Also participated in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Played for clubs like Swansea City, Braga, and Lille OSC, making significant appearances and scoring crucial goals. His key moment came with a decisive goal in the Euro 2016 final against France, securing the championship for Portugal.
Continue ReadingNick Johnson
American Basketball Player, Arizona Wildcats
Born
December 22nd, 1992 33 years ago
A basketball player from the United States played college basketball for the Arizona Wildcats. Achieved significant success during the 2013-2014 NCAA season, leading the team to the NCAA tournament. Secured a spot on the All-Pac-12 First Team following a standout season. After college, entered the NBA draft and later played in the NBA Summer League, continuing a professional career internationally.
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 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on November 29th
Luis Alberto Monge
Costa Rican politician, 39th President
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2016 9 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 39th President of Costa Rica from 1982 to 1986. Monge focused on economic reform and modernization during his administration. His tenure included addressing issues related to public debt and promoting social welfare programs. Previously held positions as a deputy and minister, contributing to national policies and governance. Played a significant role in Central American diplomacy, participating in efforts to foster peace and stability in the region.
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 ReadingMarshall Brickman
Director and Screenwriter for film and television
Born
August 25th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1939, this Brazilian-American director, producer, and screenwriter has made significant contributions to the film industry. He co-wrote the screenplay for the iconic film 'Annie Hall,' which won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. In addition to his work in film, he directed several television shows, including 'The Simpsons' and 'The Rosary Murders.' His career spans decades, impacting both cinematic and television landscapes.
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 ReadingWill Cullen Hart
American musician and songwriter
Born
June 14th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2024 1 years ago — 53 years old
A musician and songwriter associated with the genre of alternative rock, contributed significantly to the musical landscape as a member of the band Olivia Tremor Control. Hart played a pivotal role in the development of the Elephant 6 Collective, a movement that fostered a community of artists and musicians in the 1990s. The band gained recognition for its experimental sound and lo-fi aesthetics, particularly highlighted in the critically acclaimed album "Dusk at Cubist Castle," released in 1996. Hart's creative contributions to the collective and his distinctive musical style have left a lasting influence on indie music.
Continue ReadingPeng Dehuai
Chinese general and military leader
Born
October 24th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1974 51 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a key general in the Chinese Civil War and later became the first Minister of National Defense of the People's Republic of China. Participated in the Korean War, commanding Chinese forces against United Nations troops. Advocated for military modernization and opposed the Great Leap Forward, leading to political struggles during the Cultural Revolution. Played a significant role in shaping the early military strategies of modern China.
Continue Reading