Gordon Beckham
Baseball player and infielder
A professional baseball player participated in Major League Baseball primarily as an infielder. Beckham was selected in the first round of the 2008 MLB Draft by the Chicago White Sox. Debuted in 2009 and played significant seasons with the White Sox, Atlanta Braves, and other teams. Known for contributions during competitive seasons and showcased promising offensive and defensive skills throughout the career.
Drafted 8th overall by the Chicago White Sox in 2008
Debuted in MLB in 2009
Played for teams including the Chicago White Sox and Atlanta Braves
Other People Born on September 16th
Wilfred Burchett
Journalist covering war and politics
Born
September 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1983 42 years ago — 72 years old
A journalist and author, this individual reported extensively during pivotal global conflicts, including World War II and the Vietnam War. This figure became recognized for first-hand accounts from the front lines, providing detailed narratives about the realities of war. Over the years, worked for various publications, bringing attention to key historical events and political issues. The reporting style combined personal experience with critical analysis, shedding light on less-covered perspectives.
Continue ReadingJon Hendricks
American jazz vocalist and lyricist
Born
September 16th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of vocalese, a style of jazz where lyrics are set to instrumental solos. Collaborated with the innovative vocal group Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, which popularized this genre, and was instrumental in bringing vocal jazz to a broader audience. Recorded several influential albums, including 'Sing a Song of Basie' and 'The Hottest New Group in Jazz'. Acknowledged for his exceptional ability to blend skillful lyric writing with intricate jazz harmonies. His work spanned multiple decades, influencing future generations of musicians and vocalists.
Continue ReadingDaoguang Emperor
Emperor of China during the Qing Dynasty
Born
September 16th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1850 175 years ago — 67 years old
Ruled China from 1820 to 1850, presiding over significant events such as the First Opium War and the internal rebellions like the Taiping Rebellion. The Daoguang Emperor focused on administrative reforms and efforts to modernize the military. His reign experienced challenges to imperial authority, leading to economic and social turmoil. Cultural pursuits flourished, including calligraphy and painting, reflecting the era's artistic developments. The emperor faced pressures from foreign powers while navigating internal strife, which impacted the Qing Dynasty's stability.
Continue ReadingAlexander Korda
Film director and producer of the 1940s
Born
September 16th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1956 69 years ago — 62 years old
A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to Britain’s cinema during the early to mid-20th century. Founded London Films, which produced several key British films. Directed the epic historical film 'The Thief of Bagdad,' which received critical acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations. Famed for bringing British cinema to an international audience. Managed to blend artistic vision with commercial success throughout a transformative period in filmmaking.
Continue ReadingLee Kuan Yew
1st Prime Minister of Singapore
Born
September 16th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
Served as Singapore's first Prime Minister from 1959 to 1990, leading the nation through its transition from a British colonial outpost to an independent state. Played a key role in the establishment of the People’s Action Party and implemented policies that transformed Singapore’s economy, promoting industrialization and attracting foreign investment. His government emphasized multiracialism and economic pragmatism, contributing to Singapore's reputation as a global financial hub. After stepping down as Prime Minister, remained an influential figure in Singaporean politics as Senior Minister and later Minister Mentor until 2011. Author of multiple books outlining his vision for governance and social harmony.
Continue ReadingStaryl C. Austin
American Air Force General
Born
September 16th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 95 years old
Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1943. Served in various capacities during the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Held significant leadership roles, including as the commander of the Air Force Tactical Fighter Weapons Center. Oversaw the integration of advanced technologies and strategies in air combat. Retired with the rank of Major General, contributing to the development of the United States Air Force.
Continue Reading