Jim Wright

American politician and Speaker of the House

Jim Wright - American politician and Speaker of the House
Born

December 22nd, 1922
102 years ago

Died

May 6th, 2015
10 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as a soldier during World War II. Held the position of 56th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989. Practiced law after returning from military service and became involved in politics, representing Texas's 12th congressional district. Advocated for various legislative efforts during tenure as Speaker and played a significant role in the Democratic Party throughout career.

Served as Speaker of the House from 1987 to 1989

Represented Texas's 12th congressional district

Contributed to legislative processes and party leadership

Other People Born on December 22nd

Kenneth Rexroth

American poet and translator
Born
December 22nd, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1982 43 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent poet, translator, and academic, this individual significantly contributed to 20th-century American literature. Active in the influential San Francisco Poetry Renaissance, produced a body of work that combined personal experience with an interest in Eastern philosophy and spirituality. Worked on translations of classical Japanese poetry, bringing awareness of haiku to a wider audience. Engaged in literary criticism and was involved in leftist political movements throughout his career, fostering a dialogue on social issues through poetry and prose.

Continue Reading

Roberta Leigh

Writer and TV producer, creator of 'The Newcomers'
Born
December 22nd, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 88 years old

An English writer and television producer, created the soap opera 'The Newcomers', which aired from 1965 to 1966. Leigh wrote romantic novels under various pseudonyms and contributed to children's literature. In the 1960s, she became a prominent figure in British television production, aligning her writing with creative output for the screen.

Continue Reading

Steve Carlton

Baseball pitcher with multiple Cy Young Awards
Born
December 22nd, 1944 80 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 Reading

Emperor Antoku of Japan

Japanese Emperor during Gempei War
Born
December 22nd, 1178 846 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1185 840 years ago — 6 years old

Ruled as Emperor of Japan from 1180 until death in 1185, during a turbulent period known as the Gempei War, a conflict between the Taira and Minamoto clans. Ascended to the throne at a young age and faced significant challenges from rival factions. The reign was marked by military strife and political unrest, ultimately leading to his tragic demise at the Battle of Dan-no-ura, where he and his family were defeated. His death symbolized the end of the Taira clan's dominance and the rise of the Minamoto clan, setting the stage for the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate.

Continue Reading

Chris Old

Cricketer and coach
Born
December 22nd, 1948 76 years ago

Played cricket for England from 1975 to 1980. Primarily a fast bowler, Old participated in 29 Test matches and 44 One Day Internationals. Gained recognition for his role in the England cricket team and his contributions to coaching various county teams after retiring from playing. Later, worked with youth cricket initiatives to develop future players.

Continue Reading

Raphaël Guerreiro

Portuguese footballer, key player at Dortmund
Born
December 22nd, 1993 31 years ago

A professional footballer played as a left-back and midfielder. Started career at Caen in France, then transferred to Lorient. Gained recognition for performances and joined Borussia Dortmund in 2016. Represented Portugal at multiple international tournaments, including the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup. Known for technical skills and versatility on the field.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 6th

Edward VII of the United Kingdom

King of the United Kingdom, Edward VII
Born
November 9th, 1841 183 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1910 115 years ago — 68 years old

Became King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions in 1901 after the death of his mother, Queen Victoria. His reign marked the transition from Victorian values to a more modern era. He played a significant role in establishing the British royal family's modern public image and improved relations with France through the Entente Cordiale in 1904. His interests in culture and diplomacy influenced the monarchy's approach to international relations.

Continue Reading

François de Laval

Bishop and Saint of Quebec
Born
April 30th, 1623 402 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1708 317 years ago — 85 years old

Francis de Laval served as the first bishop of Quebec, playing a pivotal role in the establishment of the Catholic Church in New France. Appointed the bishop in 1674, he dedicated his life to missionary work and the education of Native Americans. He established the Séminaire de Québec in 1663, which became a central institution for the training of priests. His work emphasized education and the importance of moral and spiritual guidance within the burgeoning colony. Canonized as a saint in 2014, he is revered in the Catholic Church for his contributions to faith and education in Canada.

Continue Reading

Francisco de Paula Santander

Colombian general and politician
Born
April 2nd, 1792 233 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1840 185 years ago — 48 years old

A key figure in Colombian history, served as the fourth President of the Republic of the New Granada from 1832 to 1837. Played a significant role in the fight for independence from Spanish rule, initially serving as a general in the army. Later became involved in politics, leading efforts to establish a stable government. His presidency focused on civil rights and the organization of the newly independent state, emphasizing education and infrastructure development. His legacy includes contributions to the establishment of a republican system in Colombia.

Continue Reading

Johan Ludvig Runeberg

Finnish poet and hymn-writer
Born
February 5th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1877 148 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Finnish literature, this individual contributed significantly to the development of the Finnish language through poetry. Works include the national epic 'The Tales of Ensign Stål', which illustrated Finnish history and culture. This person also wrote the lyrics to the Finnish national anthem, 'Maamme', originally penned in Swedish. His poetry often depicted the life and struggles of the Finnish people during the 19th century, highlighting themes of national identity and folklore.

Continue Reading

Virginia Capers

Actress and singer of Broadway fame
Born
September 22nd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2004 21 years ago — 78 years old

An accomplished actress and singer, contributed significantly to the world of theater. Originated the role of Lady Thiang in the Broadway production of 'The King and I'. Also performed in 'Porgy and Bess', showcasing a strong operatic presence. Appeared in various television series, including 'The Cosby Show'. Received a Tony Award in 1974 for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for 'The 1974 Tony Awards'.

Continue Reading

Wilfrid Hyde-White

English actor in film and television
Born
May 12th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old

An accomplished English actor, a prominent figure in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in film adaptations such as 'My Fair Lady' and 'The Ladykillers'. Demonstrated versatility in character roles across various genres including drama and comedy. Made notable appearances in television series, including the role of Colonel Pickering in the acclaimed adaptation of 'Pygmalion'.

Continue Reading