Iolanda Balaș
Romanian high jumper Olympic champion
Achieved significant success in high jump during the 1950s. Competed in international events representing Romania. Won a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Set multiple world records throughout her career, including a remarkable jump of 1.85 meters in 1961. Retired in 1965, leaving a legacy in the sport.
Won the gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics
Set a world record of 1.85 meters in 1961
Other People Born on December 12th
Ed Koch
American politician and New York City Mayor
Born
December 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2013 13 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the 105th Mayor of New York City from 1978 to 1989. Led the city during a period of economic hardship and implemented policies aimed at revitalizing the city. Advocated for fiscal responsibility and urban development. Known for the catchphrase 'How am I doing?', which became synonymous with his leadership style and public persona. After leaving office, continued to be active in public life, offering commentary on New York City politics and broader issues.
Continue ReadingNate Clements
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
December 12th, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) from 2001 to 2015. Started career with the Buffalo Bills, where significant contributions were made over four seasons. Later signed with the San Francisco 49ers, achieving Pro Bowl selections and winning Super Bowl XLVII. Concluded career with the Cincinnati Bengals, showcasing defensive skills and leadership.
Continue ReadingEdward G. Robinson
Actor in classic films like 'Double Indemnity'
Born
December 12th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1973 53 years ago — 79 years old
Born in Romania, significant work in American cinema spanned several decades. Achieved prominence in the 1930s and 1940s as part of the film noir movement. Gained acclaim for a distinctive portrayal of tough-guy characters, particularly in 'Little Caesar' and 'Key Largo'. Demonstrated versatility with performances in various genres, including drama and comedy. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for the film 'The Yearling'. Continued performing in film and television until death in 1973.
Continue ReadingEduardo Castro Luque
Mexican businessman and politician
Born
December 12th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
September 14th, 2012 14 years ago — 48 years old
A businessman and politician with a significant impact on local governance and economic initiatives. Served in various political roles, contributing to the development of policies aimed at improving public services and infrastructure. Held positions in local government and has been involved in initiatives fostering economic growth in the region. Worked on key development projects aimed at attracting investment and enhancing the business environment in the community.
Continue ReadingSamuel Hood
Admiral and politician, 1st Viscount Hood
Born
December 12th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1816 210 years ago — 91 years old
Served in several notable naval battles during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Earned recognition for leadership in the Battle of the Nile. Held various political offices, including a position in the House of Lords. Contributed to the Royal Navy's strategic successes against France and established a reputation for naval prowess.
Continue ReadingGarrett Atkins
Baseball player with Colorado Rockies
Born
December 12th, 1979 46 years ago
A baseball player primarily played as a first baseman and third baseman in Major League Baseball. Played for the Colorado Rockies from 2003 to 2010. Contributed to the team's success during the 2007 season, which culminated in a World Series appearance. Later played for the Baltimore Orioles and the San Diego Padres. Also played internationally in Japan, adding to the breadth of professional experience in the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 11th
Karl Lehmann
German cardinal and theologian
Born
May 16th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2018 8 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and held the position of Bishop of Mainz from 1983 to 2016. Actively engaged in ecumenical dialogue and was involved in various church councils, including the Synod of Bishops. Contributed to theological discussions and addressed social issues within the church. Participated in the papal conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013.
Continue ReadingErle Stanley Gardner
American lawyer and author of Perry Mason
Born
July 17th, 1889 137 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1970 56 years ago — 80 years old
Practiced law while writing pulp fiction. Created the character Perry Mason, a defense attorney appearing in a series of detective novels. The character became the basis for a successful television series. Also wrote under various pseudonyms and produced numerous other works, including thrillers and mysteries. Garnered popularity for courtroom drama and intricate plots.
Continue ReadingJames B. Morehead
American Colonel and Pilot
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2012 14 years ago — 96 years old
Served as a colonel in the United States military, contributing to various aviation missions. Engaged in military operations during significant conflicts. Actively participated in the development and execution of air strategies while maintaining a prominent presence in aviation circles.
Continue ReadingDoreen Massey
Geographer and political activist
Born
January 3rd, 1944 82 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2016 10 years ago — 72 years old
Significant contributions to human geography included work on space, place, and power dynamics. Advocated for a relational understanding of how social and spatial processes interact. Engaged in political activism, focusing on social justice and community issues. Served as a professor at the Open University and published several influential books.
Continue ReadingHendrik Willem van Loon
Historian and journalist, wrote 'The Story of Mankind'
Born
January 14th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1944 82 years ago — 62 years old
Born in the Netherlands, an emigrant to the United States. Held a career as a historian and journalist, gaining recognition for contributions to historical literature and education. Authored 'The Story of Mankind', which became a widely used text in schools and earned the first Newbery Medal in 1922. In addition to this work, wrote numerous articles and books covering a variety of historical subjects, effectively popularizing history for general audiences. Engaged in lectures and public speaking, including radio broadcasts, helping to communicate historical ideas to the public during formative years of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingPierre Renoir
French actor and director with notable films
Born
March 21st, 1885 141 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1952 74 years ago — 66 years old
An actor and director, contributed significantly to French cinema. Directed several films during the early to mid-20th century. Acted in notable works such as 'La Fille de l'eau' and 'Les Déracinés'. His filmography showcased a range of genres and narratives, reflecting the cinematic trends of the time. Involved in the cinematographic society and collaborated with various filmmakers, adding depth to the art of film in France.
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