Jean-Michel Basquiat
Influential American painter and poet
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
Emerging from the New York City art scene in the late 1970s, focused on graffiti art and neo-expressionism. His work combined text and imagery, often addressing themes of race, identity, and social commentary. Gained prominence through collaborations and exhibitions, including works at the Annina Nosei Gallery. Kicked off a unique fusion of street art and high art, becoming a pivotal figure in the art movement of the 1980s. Throughout his career, faced challenges associated with fame and the art market. Passed away in 1988, leaving a lasting legacy as an innovator in contemporary art.
Created the artwork 'Untitled' (1981), sold for $110.5 million
Collaborated with Andy Warhol on notable pieces
Other People Born on December 22nd
Steve Carlton
Baseball pitcher with multiple Cy Young Awards
Born
December 22nd, 1944 81 years ago
A professional baseball player, his major league career spanned from 1965 to 1988. Primarily played for the Philadelphia Phillies, contributing significantly to the team's success. Achieved notable recognition for his exceptional pitching skills, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Earned four Cy Young Awards, becoming one of the few pitchers to achieve this accolade multiple times. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994, solidifying a legacy as one of the greatest left-handed pitchers in the history of the sport.
Continue ReadingTakuya Onishi
Japanese astronaut involved in ISS missions
Born
December 22nd, 1975 50 years ago
Born in 1975, an astronaut participated in multiple missions to the International Space Station (ISS). Joined the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and completed training in the United States. First flew to the ISS in 2016 as part of Expedition 48/49, contributing to various scientific research projects. Played a key role in the installation of the Japanese Experiment Module, Kibo, and was involved in environmental monitoring and technology demonstrations during his missions.
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Tennis player reaching Grand Slam finals
Born
December 22nd, 1998 27 years ago
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Continue ReadingEmperor Antoku of Japan
Japanese Emperor during Gempei War
Born
December 22nd, 1178 847 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1185 841 years ago — 6 years old
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Footballer and UEFA Euro 2016 Champion
Born
December 22nd, 1983 42 years ago
This professional footballer played primarily as a central defender. Early career included stints at clubs such as Olhanense and Estoril. Later joined Southampton in 2010, earning promotion to the Premier League. Subsequently played for clubs like Crystal Palace and Lille. His national team career featured participation in UEFA Euro 2016, contributing to Portugal's championship victory. He played a key role in the defense throughout the tournament.
Continue ReadingPeggy Ashcroft
English actress, renowned for 'The Home and the World'
Born
December 22nd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1991 35 years ago — 83 years old
An English actress with a prominent career in theater and film. Debuted in the 1920s and gained recognition for versatility in varied roles. Achieved acclaim for performances in productions such as 'The Home and the World' and 'The Seagull'. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the film 'Lilies of the Field'. Cultivated a strong association with the Royal Shakespeare Company and contributed significantly to British stage and cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 12th
Loretta Young
Actress and Academy Award winner
Born
January 6th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2000 25 years ago — 87 years old
This actress gained fame in Hollywood during the Golden Age of Cinema. Starting her career in the silent film era, she transitioned to talkies and became a prominent star. Featured in numerous films such as The Last Ride and The Farmer's Daughter, she showcased significant talent and versatility. Young received an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in The Farmer's Daughter, among other acclaimed performances. Beyond acting, she had a notable television career, with a successful series titled The Loretta Young Show, which won multiple Emmy Awards and established her as a television pioneer.
Continue ReadingAlbert Gallatin
Ethnologist & 4th U.S. Secretary of Treasury
Born
January 29th, 1761 265 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1849 176 years ago — 88 years old
A Swiss-American ethnologist, linguist, and politician, served as the fourth Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1814 under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Played a significant role in the founding of the University of New York and the establishment of the first American ethnological society. Contributed to the development of American fiscal policy and worked on reducing the national debt during his tenure. Involved in diplomatic efforts including peace negotiations with Great Britain during the War of 1812 and advocated for Native American rights. Helped foster infrastructure improvements including roads and waterways, promoting economic growth.
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German author, Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 6th, 1875 151 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1955 70 years ago — 80 years old
An influential German author and critic, Mann wrote extensively throughout the 20th century. His literary career was marked by a focus on the themes of morality, aesthetics, and the complexities of human experience. Major works include 'Buddenbrooks', which received critical acclaim and established his reputation as a leading novelist, and 'The Magic Mountain', a significant exploration of time and illness set in a sanatorium. In 1929, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his distinguished body of work. Mann's writings often reflected the political and social changes in Germany and Europe, particularly during the rise of fascism.
Continue ReadingNikolai Triik
Estonian painter and illustrator
Born
August 7th, 1884 142 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1940 85 years ago — 56 years old
Born in Estonia, an influential painter and illustrator emerged, primarily recognized for contributions to the development of modern art in the region. Active during the 20th century, created vivid landscapes and expressive works reflecting the Estonian identity and culture. Studied at the St. Petersburg State Academy of Arts, influencing a generation of artists. Collaborated with various artists and exhibited works in multiple venues, gaining attention for unique stylistic elements that integrated both realism and impressionism.
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Baseball manager and player for the St. Louis Cardinals
Born
October 5th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1959 66 years ago — 81 years old
An Irish-American baseball player and manager, he played as an outfielder and had a significant career in Major League Baseball. O'Neill played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and the Philadelphia Phillies. Following his playing career, he transitioned into management, leading several teams, particularly in minor league baseball. His tenure in baseball spanned over a decade, during which he earned respect for his strategic approach to the game.
Continue ReadingEliphalet Remington
American firearms manufacturer and founder
Born
October 28th, 1793 232 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1861 164 years ago — 67 years old
Founded Remington Arms Company in 1816, which became a major producer of firearms in the United States. The company initially started with manufacturing a single-shot rifle and evolved into producing a wide range of firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and ammunition. Remington Arms played a significant role in the American Civil War by supplying weapons to the Union Army. Over the years, the company established its reputation for durable and reliable products.
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