Joe Strummer
Musician and lead vocalist of The Clash
A prominent musician and songwriter rose to fame as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the punk rock band The Clash. The band emerged in the late 1970s and played a significant role in the punk rock movement. The Clash released influential albums such as 'London Calling', which received critical acclaim and is often cited among the greatest albums in rock history. Strummer also pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists. His work encompassed themes of social justice and political activism, reflected in both music and public statements. Strummer's contributions continue to influence musicians and artists worldwide.
Lead vocalist of The Clash
Album 'London Calling'
Other People Born on August 21st
Mohammed VI
King of Morocco overseeing modernization
Born
August 21st, 1963 62 years ago
Ascended to the throne in 1999, overseeing significant political, economic, and social reforms. Implemented initiatives to modernize infrastructure, improve education, and promote economic growth. Enhanced the role of women in society through legal reforms. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve regional issues and strengthen Morocco's international relations.
Continue ReadingGuillaume Groen van Prinsterer
Dutch historian and politician
Born
August 21st, 1801 224 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1876 149 years ago — 74 years old
A significant figure in Dutch history, contributed to both politics and historical scholarship. Played a crucial role in the foundation of the Anti-Revolutionary Party in the Netherlands. Authored influential works that highlighted the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary social and political issues. Engaged actively in debates on the role of religion in society, advocating for a Christian perspective in politics.
Continue ReadingBarry Norman
English author and film critic
Born
August 21st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
June 30th, 2017 8 years ago — 83 years old
An influential film critic and author, this individual wrote extensively on cinema and served as a presenter for the BBC's film review program 'Film...'. Contributions to film literature and criticism helped shape public perception of movies during a prominent career. Authoring several books on film, the individual provided insights into the industry and critiques of notable films and filmmakers.
Continue ReadingX. J. Kennedy
American poet and translator
Born
August 21st, 1929 96 years ago
An influential figure in American poetry, contributions include numerous collections and anthologies. Editor for various literary journals, notable works span traditional and contemporary themes. Renowned for engagement in the poetic community through teaching and workshops, significantly shaping modern poetic voices. Activities include translation of various works, enhancing the accessibility of international literature within the American context.
Continue ReadingBasil Poledouris
Composer of film scores including Conan
Born
August 21st, 1945 80 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 61 years old
A Greek-American composer and conductor, recognized for a prolific career in film scoring. Significant works include scores for movies like 'Conan the Barbarian', 'The Hunt for Red October', and 'Robocop'. Often collaborated with director Paul Verhoeven and provided music for various television projects. Received nominations for Emmy Awards, with a notable Emmy win for the miniseries 'The Last Ride of the Dalton Gang'.
Continue ReadingKim Cattrall
Actress known for 'Sex and the City'
Born
August 21st, 1956 69 years ago
An English-Canadian actress, prominent for a career spanning several decades, gained widespread recognition for the role of Samantha Jones in the HBO series 'Sex and the City.' This series, which aired from 1998 to 2004, showcased the lives of four women navigating love and friendship in New York City. Following the series, the character was reprised in two feature films, 'Sex and the City' (2008) and 'Sex and the City 2' (2010), further solidifying her status in popular culture. Prior to this landmark role, participated in various film and television projects, including 'Big Trouble in Little China' and 'Mannequin.'
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 22nd
Ross McLarty
Australian politician, 17th Premier
Born
March 17th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1962 63 years ago — 71 years old
Served as the 17th Premier of Western Australia from 1947 to 1953. Played a significant role in the development of post-war Western Australia, overseeing economic growth and infrastructure projects. Worked on policies regarding land development and social welfare. Contributed to the political landscape during a transformative period in Australian history.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hyde Wollaston
English chemist and physicist
Born
August 6th, 1766 259 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1828 197 years ago — 62 years old
Contributions to chemistry and physics included the discovery of the elements palladium and rhodium. Developed methods for refining platinum, which advanced early techniques in metallurgy. Conducted pioneering work in spectroscopy. Wrote significant scientific papers that laid foundations for future research.
Continue ReadingWillibald Pirckheimer
German lawyer and Renaissance author
Born
December 5th, 1470 555 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1530 495 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent figure of the German Renaissance, extensively contributed to humanist literature. Engaged in legal practice while also serving as a patron of the arts. Collaborated with notable artists of the period, influencing the cultural landscape. Authored letters and treatises that showcased classical learning and the significance of education. Played a vital role in the promotion of humanist thought in Germany.
Continue ReadingRose Talbot Bullard
American medical doctor and professor
Born
April 16th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1915 110 years ago — 51 years old
Graduated from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1889. Specialized in gynecology and obstetrics. Served as a professor at the University of California, San Francisco. Actively contributed to medical education and established standards for women's health care during her tenure.
Continue ReadingPaddy Ashdown
British politician and soldier
Born
February 27th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a British soldier in the Royal Marines and later became a prominent politician. Co-founded the Liberal Democrat party in 1988 and served as its first leader until 1999. Represented Yeovil in the House of Commons and played a significant role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Worked on various international assignments, including the role of High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Continue ReadingDesmond Hoyte
Guyanese politician and President
Born
March 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the President of Guyana from 1985 to 1992 after holding various ministerial positions. Initially a member of the People's National Congress, took office following the death of the previous president. Implemented economic reforms and attempted to transition the country towards a free-market economy. Focused on improving international relations and fostering diplomatic ties with other nations. Played a significant role in the non-aligned movement and represented Guyana in several international forums.
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