Grant Balfour
Australian baseball pitcher and All-Star
Played in Major League Baseball as a pitcher from 2001 to 2015. Represented multiple teams, including the Tampa Bay Rays, where a standout season occurred in 2013. Achieved an All-Star selection in 2013. Notable for effectiveness as a closer and strong performance in high-pressure situations.
Selected as an MLB All-Star in 2013
Served as a closer for the Tampa Bay Rays
Achieved a career-high 38 saves in 2013
Other People Born on December 30th
Yvonne Brill
Engineer known for propulsion systems
Born
December 30th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
Canadian-American scientist and engineer specialized in rocket propulsion systems. Developed advanced techniques for satellite propulsion. Contributed to the design of the propulsion system for the Mariner 2 spacecraft, which successfully flew by Venus in 1962. Worked with various aerospace organizations including NASA and was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation for contributions to the field. Actively mentored young engineers and promoted women in science and engineering throughout her career.
Continue ReadingAsa Griggs Candler
American businessman and politician
Born
December 30th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1929 96 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent businessman and politician, served as the 44th Mayor of Atlanta from 1910 to 1912. Candler co-founded the drink Coca-Cola and held substantial influence in its early marketing and distribution. Transitioned from business to politics, focusing on city improvement and public services. His tenure as mayor included initiatives in public health, infrastructure, and urban development.
Continue ReadingJan Kubíček
Czech painter and sculptor
Born
December 30th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent Czech painter and sculptor, achieved recognition for merging geometric abstraction with lyrical elements. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague, later became part of the avant-garde movement. Participated in numerous exhibitions, both nationally and internationally, and contributed to the development of modern art in the Czech Republic. His work often explored the themes of light and space, resulting in distinctive compositions that resonated within the art community.
Continue ReadingSkeeter Davis
American Country Music Singer-Songwriter
Born
December 30th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2004 21 years ago — 72 years old
Emergence in the 1950s brought national attention with a unique blend of country and pop music. Best recognized for the hit single "The End of the World" which reached the top of the country charts and crossed over to pop music success. Released several albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the popularity of the Nashville sound. Collaborated with fellow artists and was a prominent figure in the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing significant talent in live performances.
Continue ReadingAdolfo Ruiz Cortines
47th President of Mexico
Born
December 30th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1973 52 years ago — 82 years old
Served as the 47th President of Mexico from 1952 to 1958. Before presidency, participated in the Mexican Revolution and served in various political roles, including Secretary of the Interior. Implemented policies focused on economic development, education, and social welfare. His administration is marked by efforts to stabilize the economy and modifications in labor rights.
Continue ReadingOmar Bongo
Gabonese politician and president
Born
December 30th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
June 8th, 2009 16 years ago — 73 years old
Served as President of Gabon from 1967 until passing in 2009. Bongo was one of Africa's longest-serving leaders, establishing a strong hold over Gabon's political landscape. Under his leadership, Gabon pursued policies aimed at economic development, particularly in the oil sector, which became a major source of revenue for the country. Bongo's tenure was marked by efforts to promote Gabon's image internationally and increase its influence across Africa. While in power, he faced criticism for his governance style and allegations of corruption.
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