Keely Smith
American singer and actress known for 'The Tonight Show'
Born in 1928, a prominent American singer and actress achieved recognition through a successful career in music and television. Smith gained fame as a vocalist in the 1950s, particularly for her partnership with Louis Prima. The duo's performances blended jazz and popular styles, with Smith's powerful voice complementing Prima's energetic showmanship. Smith's appearances on national television, especially on 'The Tonight Show' during the 1960s, contributed to her widespread acclaim. She also recorded several acclaimed albums showcasing her vocal ability. Her career spanned decades, during which she became known for her exceptional skills in both singing and performing. Smith continued to entertain audiences until her later years.
Performed alongside Louis Prima
Appeared on 'The Tonight Show'
Other People Born on March 9th
Brittany Snow
Actress and producer from American TV
Born
March 9th, 1986 39 years ago
This actress gained recognition for roles in the television series 'Guiding Light' and 'American Dreams'. She starred in the film franchise 'Pitch Perfect' as well as 'Would You Rather' and 'The Pacifier'. Her work encompasses both acting and producing in various projects. In addition to television and film, she has participated in voice acting.
Continue ReadingKerr Smith
American actor known for 'Dawson's Creek'
Born
March 9th, 1972 53 years ago
An American actor, widely recognized for roles in television series and film. Became widely recognized for portraying Jack McPhee on the series 'Dawson's Creek', which aired from 1998 to 2003. Also played a prominent role in the horror film 'Final Destination' released in 2000. His work contributed to the representation of LGBTQ+ characters on mainstream television during that era.
Continue ReadingSamuel Barber
American composer of classical music
Born
March 9th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1981 44 years ago — 70 years old
An American composer achieved prominence in the 20th century with a distinctive style that blended lyrical melodies and rich harmonies. His most famous work, the Adagio for Strings, became a significant piece in both concert halls and popular culture. Barber's music featured a range of orchestral and vocal compositions, earning him two Pulitzer Prizes for Music. His contributions extended to operas, including Vanessa and Antony and Cleopatra, which solidified his reputation in American classical music. Barber's works continue to be performed and studied across the globe.
Continue ReadingJeffrey Osborne
American singer, songwriter, drummer
Born
March 9th, 1948 77 years ago
Born in 1948, a singer and songwriter recognized for a successful solo career following his time with the group L.T.D. The artist gained prominence in the 1980s with hit songs such as "On the Wings of Love" and "Stay with Me Tonight." Contributions to the R&B genre are notable, and the ability to blend soul and pop helped shape his unique style. Apart from music, involvement in various charitable causes has been significant, reflecting a commitment to giving back to the community.
Continue ReadingYuri Gagarin
Russian cosmonaut and space pioneer
Born
March 9th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1968 57 years ago — 34 years old
A Soviet pilot and cosmonaut, became the first human to travel into space on April 12, 1961, aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft. The mission lasted 108 minutes, orbiting the Earth once. This historic flight marked a significant achievement in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. After the space flight, served as a deputy training director for future cosmonauts and participated in various public engagements promoting space exploration. Received numerous awards and decorations for contributions to space science and aeronautics until untimely death in a plane crash in 1968.
Continue ReadingNajee Harris
Football Running Back for Pittsburgh Steelers
Born
March 9th, 1998 27 years ago
A professional football running back, played for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL). His collegiate career was spent at the University of Alabama, where he achieved significant success. In college, he was part of the team that won the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship. Transitioning to the NFL, made an immediate impact in his rookie season. Recognized for athleticism and run capabilities, contributed to the Steelers' offense.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Robert Stanfield
Canadian politician, 17th Premier of Nova Scotia
Born
April 11th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2003 22 years ago — 89 years old
An economist and lawyer, served as the 17th Premier of Nova Scotia from 1967 to 1970. His leadership during this period focused on key economic initiatives and improvements in education and healthcare. Later, became the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada from 1967 to 1976. Contributed to the development of party policies and political strategies during a significant time in Canadian politics.
Continue ReadingFrançois Quesnay
French economist and physician
Born
June 4th, 1694 331 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1774 251 years ago — 80 years old
Quesnay contributed significantly to economic theory as a leader of the Physiocratic movement. This school of thought emphasized the importance of agriculture and the land as the source of wealth. His work, the 'Tableau Économique', illustrated the economic processes of society, influencing future economic thought. In addition to economics, Quesnay practiced medicine and served as a physician to King Louis XV, integrating health with economic principles. His ideas laid the groundwork for later economic theories.
Continue ReadingElinor Wylie
American author and poet
Born
September 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1928 97 years ago — 43 years old
Born in 1885, this author and poet gained recognition during the early 20th century for crafting lyrical poetry and novels. Notable works include 'The Orphan Angel' and 'The Venetian Glass Nephew'. The poet's work often featured themes of love, nature, and human emotion, resonating with readers of the era. In addition to prose, contributions to poetry established a reputation as a significant literary figure of the time.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Grimm
German anthropologist and author
Born
February 24th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1859 166 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed significantly to folklore and linguistics. Along with his brother, collected and published fairy tales that became classics, including 'Cinderella' and 'Hansel and Gretel'. Developed important theories in German philology and worked on the German Dictionary project. Involved in the founding of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Volkskunde, promoting the study of folklore.
Continue ReadingRéal Caouette
Canadian journalist and politician
Born
September 26th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1976 49 years ago — 59 years old
Contributed to Canadian politics and media during the 20th century. Elected as the leader of the Social Credit Party of Canada in 1965 and served as a Member of Parliament. Advocated for the rights of Francophones across Canada while managing various social issues. Worked as a journalist prior to his political career, which provided a foundation for his communication skills and public engagement.
Continue ReadingNina Hamnett
Welsh-English painter and author
Born
February 14th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1956 69 years ago — 66 years old
A painter and author specialized in the depiction of the artistic community in Paris during the early 20th century. Worked in various styles, primarily focusing on expressionism. Published an autobiographical book detailing experiences in the bohemian culture of the time. Contributed significantly to the artistic scene of the period, becoming associated with notable artists of the era.
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