Johnny Rogers
Basketball player with Olympic experience
Basketball player participated in the 1984 Summer Olympics representing the United States. Played college basketball at the University of Iowa, where achievements included being a standout performer and all-conference selection. Later competed professionally in various leagues, including notable stints in Europe. His international play added to his reputation as a skilled player.
Competed in the 1984 Summer Olympics
Played for the University of Iowa
Had a professional career in European leagues
Other People Born on December 30th
K. M. Munshi
Indian politician and founder of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan
Born
December 30th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 84 years old
An Indian politician, writer, and educationist, contributed to cultural and educational reforms in India. Founded the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in 1938, an organization dedicated to the promotion of Indian culture and education. Actively engaged in the freedom struggle against British rule and served in various capacities post-independence, including as a member of the Constituent Assembly. Munshi wrote extensively and translated works from classical literature, enriching the Indian literary landscape.
Continue ReadingStan Tracey
Jazz pianist and composer, 'The Geiger Counter'
Born
December 30th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
An English pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz scene in the UK. Began performing in the 1940s and gained recognition in the 1960s. Led his own band and recorded numerous albums, blending elements of jazz with classical music. Achieved acclaim for compositions that showcased improvisational skills. The album 'The Geiger Counter' is often highlighted as one of his significant works. Continued to influence and mentor young jazz musicians throughout his career.
Continue ReadingLouis-Jean-François Lagrenée
French painter and educator in history
Born
December 30th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1805 220 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1724, a French painter and educator specialized in history painting and genre scenes. Studied at the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, where teachings included techniques and styles of the time. Gained recognition for skills in composition and color, leading to major works commissioned by the French aristocracy. Served as a professor at the Academy, influencing a generation of artists. His works reflected both classical and contemporary themes, merging narrative with aesthetic appeal.
Continue ReadingElmira Minita Gordon
Belizean educator and psychologist
Born
December 30th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2021 5 years ago — 90 years old
Educational contributions included serving as the first female president of the University of Belize. Worked extensively in the field of psychology, focusing on education and mental health. Authored several publications aimed at improving educational practices in Belize. Advocated for the rights of students and the promotion of mental health awareness within the community.
Continue ReadingBjarne Stroustrup
Computer Scientist, C++ Programming Language
Born
December 30th, 1950 75 years ago
A Danish computer scientist, played a pivotal role in developing the C++ programming language, which has become one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. Stroustrup began working on C++ in the late 1970s at Bell Labs, aiming to enhance the C programming language with features that support object-oriented programming. The first edition of 'The C++ Programming Language' was published in 1985, providing a comprehensive guide to the language. Over the years, Stroustrup contributed to various standards of C++, influencing its evolution and integration in software development. He has held academic positions at both Texas A&M University and Columbia University, educating future generations of programmers.
Continue ReadingTony Serra
Criminal defense attorney and activist
Born
December 30th, 1934 91 years ago
Born in 1934, a criminal defense and civil rights attorney specialized in high-profile cases. Engaged in political activism and tax resistance over the decades, serving as a prominent figure in various social justice causes. Argued cases in defense of clients charged with serious crimes, gaining recognition for defending the rights of marginalized populations. Actively participated in protests and movements concerning civil rights and anti-establishment issues, advocating for systemic change through legal channels and public discourse.
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