Harold Alexander
Field Marshal and Governor General of Canada
Born
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Canada
Links & References
Born on December 10, 1891, a significant military leader who served in both World Wars. Achieved the rank of field marshal in the British Army and notably commanded the 18th Army Group during the Italian Campaign in World War II. Following military service, took on the role of the 17th Governor General of Canada from 1946 to 1952, representing the monarch and carrying out ceremonial duties. Contributions to military strategy and governance marked a notable military and political career.
Commanded the 18th Army Group in WWII
Served as Governor General of Canada
Other People Born on December 10th
Morton Gould
Pianist, composer, and conductor of symphonies
Born
December 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1996 30 years ago — 82 years old
A prolific American pianist, composer, and conductor active throughout the 20th century, contributed significantly to orchestral and chamber music. Composed various works that blended classical and popular styles, including symphonies, concertos, and ballets. Served as the conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and composed works for notable institutions including the New York Philharmonic and the National Symphony Orchestra. His musical arrangements gained popularity and were widely performed, expanding the reach of classical music into popular culture.
Continue ReadingDanny Matt
German-Israeli general
Born
December 10th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1927, a general who served in the Israeli Defense Forces. Participated in significant military operations and played a vital role in shaping security policies. Contributed to strategic military planning during critical periods for Israel, particularly during the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War.
Continue ReadingRay Nance
American trumpeter and violinist
Born
December 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1976 50 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent figure in jazz, played the trumpet and violin, and contributed significantly to the Duke Ellington orchestra. Nance performed in various Ellington compositions and was also a skilled vocalist. His work with Ellington's band spanned over a decade, and he participated in numerous recordings during that period. He was also involved in the 1940 film 'Duke Ellington's Sophisticated Lady'. Nance's innovative style and versatility as a musician helped shape the sound of big band jazz.
Continue ReadingTetsuji Takechi
Japanese film and theater director
Born
December 10th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1988 38 years ago — 76 years old
Born in Japan, a significant figure in the world of theatrical and film direction, predominantly active during the mid-20th century. His work spanned various genres and styles, leading to influential productions that shaped Japanese theater and cinema. Takechi contributed to both directing and critiquing theatrical performances and films, gaining recognition for his unique approach to storytelling and character development. As an author, he provided insights into the craft of directing and the intricacies of theater. He played a vital role in the evolution of modern Japanese drama and film.
Continue ReadingClarice Lispector
Ukrainian-Brazilian author
Born
December 10th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
1977 49 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Ukraine and later based in Brazil, this author is celebrated for contributions to modernist literature. Early life experiences influenced the distinct style characterized by introspective and innovative narrative techniques. The literary career began with the publication of the novel 'Perto do Coração Selvagem' in 1943, establishing a unique voice within Brazilian literature. Works prominently feature themes of identity, femininity, and the human condition. Additionally, contributed to journalism and wrote various essays, further shaping cultural discourse in Brazil.
Continue ReadingAmbrosio Padilla
Filipino basketball player and politician
Born
December 10th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1996 29 years ago — 85 years old
Played basketball for the University of the East and became a member of the Philippine national basketball team. Achieved recognition as a significant player during the 1936 Summer Olympics when the Philippines competed in basketball. Transitioned into politics and served as a prominent figure in the local government, contributing to various community initiatives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 16th
Ronald Neame
Film director of 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie'
Born
April 23rd, 1911 115 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2010 16 years ago — 99 years old
Born in England, a director, cinematographer, producer, and screenwriter. At the beginning of professional career, worked as a cinematographer on multiple films in the 1930s. Transitioned to directing, gaining recognition for the film 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie' in 1969. Other significant works include 'Tunes of Glory', 'The Horse's Mouth', and 'The Poseidon Adventure'. Neame also collaborated with prestigious writers and contributed extensively to British cinema.
Continue ReadingThanom Kittikachorn
Field Marshal and Prime Minister of Thailand
Born
August 11th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
June 16th, 2004 22 years ago — 92 years old
Served as the 10th Prime Minister of Thailand, holding office from 1963 to 1973. His tenure was marked by military influence and significant political unrest, culminating in the student-led uprising that led to his resignation. Kittikachorn played a prominent role in developing Thailand's military and governance system during a period defined by Cold War tensions in Southeast Asia. Following his resignation, he lived in exile for over a decade before returning to Thailand in 1980.
Continue ReadingKristen Pfaff
American bass player and songwriter
Born
1967 59 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1994 32 years ago — 27 years old
A prominent bass player and songwriter, contributed to the alternative rock scene in the early 1990s. Collaborated with the band Hole, participating in the recording of the critically acclaimed album 'Live Through This'. Before joining Hole, played with the band White Baby, showcasing talent in the punk and grunge genres. Struggled with personal challenges but left a notable mark in the music world during her short career. Died at a young age, leaving behind a legacy in alternative rock music.
Continue ReadingFred Wacker
Race Driver and Engineer
Born
July 10th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1998 28 years ago — 79 years old
An American race driver and engineer who competed in various motorsport events. Participated in the Indianapolis 500 multiple times, showcasing engineering skills in automotive design. Contributed to advancements in racing technology, solidifying a reputation in the engineering side of motorsports.
Continue ReadingJohann Adam Hiller
German composer and conductor of operas
Born
December 25th, 1728 297 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1804 222 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1728, a significant figure in the German opera scene during the 18th century. Contributed to the development of Singspiel, a form of German musical theater. Hiller served as a conductor at the Leipzig opera and played a crucial role in establishing a vibrant musical culture in the city. Composed over 40 operas, many of which were popular during his lifetime. Had a keen interest in music education and wrote several theoretical works on music as well as a notable opera, 'Die Jagd'. His efforts in opera and music theory left a lasting mark on German music.
Continue ReadingAdam de Brome
Founder of Oriel College, Oxford
Died
June 16th, 1332 694 years ago — None years old
Established Oriel College in Oxford in 1326, contributing to the academic framework of the university. Played a significant role in the development of higher education during the medieval period. Served as the first president of the college, overseeing its early years and laying the foundation for its future growth.
Continue Reading