James M. Canty
American educator and school administrator
Contributed to the field of education as an educator and school administrator. Involved significantly in educational reforms and the improvement of school systems. Also engaged in business, applying educational insights to administration and management. Focus was often on enhancing educational opportunities and experiences for students. Advocated for academic excellence and community engagement.
Served as an influential school administrator
Implemented educational reforms
Other People Born on December 23rd
Hanley Ramírez
Dominican baseball player, 2009 AL MVP runner-up
Born
December 23rd, 1983 42 years ago
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2006. Played for the Florida Marlins, where he earned the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2006. Transitioned to the Boston Red Sox in 2015 and contributed to their offense. Known for versatility in playing shortstop and third base. Achieved considerable success during career, including multiple All-Star selections and Silver Slugger Awards.
Continue ReadingThomas Smith
English scholar and diplomat
Born
December 23rd, 1513 512 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1577 448 years ago — 63 years old
Engaged in extensive scholarship and served as a diplomat. Contributed significantly to the fields of political theory and history. Best known for his role as tutor to Edward VI, which established connections that influenced future diplomatic relationships. Instrumental in the development of official government documents and correspondence during a transformative period in England. Authored several important works that explored governance, economics, and society, providing insights that informed policies of the day.
Continue ReadingKang Je-gyu
South Korean director of 'Saving My Hubby'
Born
December 23rd, 1962 63 years ago
A director, producer, and screenwriter from South Korea, contributions include notable films that gained both domestic and international recognition. Directed 'Saving My Hubby', which received critical acclaim and won several awards. Also produced and directed 'Oasis', awarded the Best Director prize at the Cannes Film Festival. Influenced the South Korean film industry with a distinctive storytelling style, often focusing on complex characters and social issues.
Continue ReadingJosé Greco
Dancer and choreographer of flamenco
Born
December 23rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2000 24 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent dancer and choreographer, Greco contributed significantly to the Flamenco dance genre in the United States. Born in Italy and later moving to America, he became celebrated for bringing traditional Spanish dance to the forefront of American culture. Greco founded a dance company that toured extensively, showcasing the beauty and passion of Flamenco. His performances captivated audiences and helped to popularize Flamenco, influencing many dancers and choreographers.
Continue ReadingAnthony Mary Claret
Spanish Roman Catholic archbishop and missionary
Born
December 23rd, 1807 218 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a prominent Roman Catholic archbishop and missionary in the 19th century, focusing on evangelization and education. Founded the Claretian Missionaries, a religious congregation dedicated to missionary work. Worked extensively in Cuba and later in Spain, promoting various reforms within the church.
Continue ReadingJohan Franzén
Ice hockey player with Detroit Red Wings
Born
December 23rd, 1979 46 years ago
Played as a forward primarily for the Detroit Red Wings in the National Hockey League (NHL). Contributed to the team's success during multiple seasons, including winning the Stanly Cup in 2008. Known for effective scoring ability and strong presence in playoffs. Retired from professional ice hockey in 2015 due to concussions, leaving a legacy as a dedicated player.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 16th
Boutros Boutros-Ghali
United Nations Secretary-General
Born
November 14th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent Egyptian politician and diplomat, served as the 6th Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1992 to 1996. Played a crucial role in global diplomacy during a time of significant geopolitical changes, including the post-Cold War period. Worked on various international issues, including peacekeeping missions and humanitarian efforts. Contributed to the development and promotion of international law. Advocated for the role of the United Nations in addressing global challenges.
Continue ReadingKeith Haring
American Painter and Activist
Born
May 4th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1990 35 years ago — 31 years old
An artist emerged in the early 1980s, celebrated for distinctive graffiti-inspired artwork characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors. Haring utilized public spaces, especially subway stations, to share messages about social issues, including AIDS awareness, anti-apartheid, and LGBTQ+ rights. Established the Pop Shop in New York City to promote accessible art as a means of cultural expression. Advocated for children's issues and created murals worldwide, solidifying a legacy of art as a tool for activism. Haring's work remains influential in contemporary art and social movements.
Continue ReadingEnrique Bermúdez
Nicaraguan lieutenant and engineer
Born
December 11th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1991 34 years ago — 58 years old
Served as a prominent figure in the Nicaraguan Contra movement during the 1980s. Graduated from the Nicaraguan Military Academy and held various military positions. Played a key role in organizing and leading the Contra forces against the Sandinista government. After the conflict, pursued an engineering career and held influential positions in opposition to the Sandinista policies. Died in 1991.
Continue ReadingWilliam Pennington
American politician and governor
Born
May 4th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1862 163 years ago — 65 years old
Served as the 13th Governor of New Jersey and the 23rd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. Participated in significant legislative processes during a pivotal time in American history. Engaged in political issues of the mid-19th century, influencing governance and public policy within the state and nation. Advocated for various legislative measures and reforms during tenure as a representative.
Continue ReadingEdgar Speyer
Financier and philanthropist
Born
September 7th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1932 93 years ago — 69 years old
Active in finance and philanthropy, contributed significantly to various charitable organizations. Speyer served as a director of the New York branch of a prominent bank and played a vital role in the development of infrastructure projects in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Associated with numerous cultural institutions, provided financial support to the arts and education. Involved in the campaign for greater public welfare, particularly during the difficult times of World War I.
Continue ReadingLorena Rojas
Mexican actress and singer in telenovelas
Born
February 10th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 44 years old
An accomplished actress and singer, the career spanned several decades in the entertainment industry. Gained prominence through participation in popular telenovelas such as 'El Cuerpo del Deseo' and 'Alma de Hierro'. Also released musical albums, showcasing a talent for both acting and singing. Recognized for a commitment to arts and charitable activities.
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