Joe Paterno
American football coach at Penn State
A college football coach, led the Penn State Nittany Lions for 46 seasons. Achieved the most wins in NCAA Division I football history at the time of retirement. Coached the team to two national championships and numerous bowl game victories. Developed a reputation for his commitment to academic integrity and player development throughout his tenure.
Accumulated 409 career wins
Won two national championships in 1982 and 1986
Coached the team to 37 bowl games
Other People Born on December 21st
Buddy Carlyle
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
December 21st, 1977 48 years ago
Drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 1996, played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 2004 with the Braves and had stints with the New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, and Florida Marlins. Notably performed as a relief pitcher and contributed to teams in high-pressure situations throughout his career. Played a role in the Atlanta Braves' bullpen during competitive seasons in the mid-2000s. Returned to MLB after a period in the minor leagues, continuing to demonstrate versatility as a pitcher.
Continue ReadingPhilip Humber
Baseball player, perfect game pitcher
Born
December 21st, 1982 43 years ago
Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2006, playing for the New York Mets, Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and the New York Yankees. Recorded a perfect game on April 21, 2012 against the Seattle Mariners while serving as a pitcher for the Chicago White Sox. This achievement marked the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
Continue ReadingSteve Montador
Ice hockey defenseman for NHL teams
Born
December 21st, 1979 46 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 35 years old
Played as a professional ice hockey defenseman in the NHL. Competed for multiple teams including the Florida Panthers, Chicago Blackhawks, and Buffalo Sabres. Contributed to the teams with his defensive skills and physical play. Helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup in 2010. Also played in the AHL and internationally, representing Canada.
Continue ReadingShaun Morgan
South African musician and singer-songwriter
Born
December 21st, 1978 47 years ago
A South African musician gained prominence as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Seether. The band achieved major success in the 2000s with multiple albums and hit singles. They released the album "Beautifully Broken" in 2017 and headlined numerous tours. Morgan's songwriting often reflects personal struggles and experiences. In addition to his work with Seether, he collaborated with various artists and participated in musical projects that showcased his skills as a vocalist and guitarist.
Continue ReadingTom Sturridge
English actor in 'The Tempest'
Born
December 21st, 1985 40 years ago
An English actor, recognized for performances in both film and theater. Made a significant mark with the role of Ferdinand in 'The Tempest' at the Royal National Theatre. Featured in films such as 'Going the Distance' and 'The Boat That Rocked.' Portrayed the character of Lawrence in the Netflix series 'The Sandman', further establishing a supportive role in the contemporary television landscape.
Continue ReadingRutina Wesley
American actress in HBO's True Blood
Born
December 21st, 1978 47 years ago
An American actress gained prominence for roles in television and film. Best recognized for playing Tara Thornton in the HBO series True Blood and for the lead role in the series Queen Sugar, created by Ava DuVernay. The performances showcased talent and versatility in portraying complex characters. Additional works include a variety of guest appearances in other series and roles in stage productions, reflecting skills across different mediums.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Harry Frank Guggenheim
Businessman, co-founded Newsday
Born
August 23rd, 1890 135 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1971 55 years ago — 80 years old
A businessman and publisher, contributed significantly to the media landscape. Co-founded Newsday in 1940, which became a prominent newspaper in Long Island, New York. Served as the president of the company for many years, overseeing its growth and development. Also involved in various philanthropic efforts, including support for educational and cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingHerbert Sutcliffe
English cricketer and soldier
Born
November 24th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1978 48 years ago — 83 years old
An accomplished cricketer, excelled as a batsman, representing Yorkshire County Cricket Club and England. Played a significant role in the early 20th century, earning a reputation for exceptional technique and resilience. Achieved notable success in Test matches, contributing to England's performance against various international teams. Served in the military during World War I, showcasing dedication beyond the cricket field.
Continue ReadingTommie Agee
Baseball player, 1969 World Series champion
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2001 25 years ago — 59 years old
An American baseball player had a significant career in Major League Baseball, primarily as an outfielder. Debuting in 1962, played for the Chicago White Sox and New York Mets. Key achievements included helping the Mets win their first World Series in 1969, where standout performances solidified a legacy in the sport. Agee's defensive skills and batting prowess contributed to the Mets' success during a historic season. His memorable catches in the 1969 World Series remain a highlight of his career. Retired from professional baseball in 1973.
Continue ReadingBernhard Knipperdolling
German religious leader and reformer
Born
1495 531 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1536 490 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent figure during the early Reformation in Germany, played a critical role in the iconoclastic movements in Münster. Became a key leader of the Anabaptist community in the city, advocating for radical religious changes and communal living. Engaged in the tumultuous political climate of the time, leading efforts to establish a new religious order. Eventually faced persecution due to these radical views and was executed for heresy, marking a significant moment in the history of the Reformation.
Continue ReadingLawson Robertson
Sprinter and high jumper, Olympic medalist
Born
September 24th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1951 75 years ago — 67 years old
A Scottish-American athlete excelled in both sprinting and high jumping. Competed in the 1900 Olympic Games, securing a silver medal in the high jump event. In addition to Olympic success, achieved several national championships and set multiple records in both disciplines. Later became active in the athletic community, contributing to the development of sports in the United States.
Continue ReadingShah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 434 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 360 years ago — 74 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Continue Reading