Keith Holyoake
New Zealand politician and Prime Minister
Served as the 26th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1960 to 1972. Involved in the National Party, held various cabinet positions, including Minister of Agriculture. Focused on economic development and agricultural policies during tenure. Contributed to New Zealand's post-war recovery and modernization. After leaving politics, took on various roles in business and public service.
Served as Prime Minister from 1960 to 1972
Held the position of Minister of Agriculture
Promoted economic development policies
Other People Born on February 11th
Gerry Goffin
American songwriter of pop classics
Born
February 11th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in American music, contributed extensively as a songwriter during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated with Carole King, creating numerous hit songs. The partnership yielded a string of chart-topping records that became standards in pop music. Many songs received critical acclaim and gained recognition for their lyrical depth and melodic structure. Their work remains influential, impacting generations of artists across various genres.
Continue ReadingMarco Marcato
Italian professional road cyclist
Born
February 11th, 1984 41 years ago
Beginning a professional cycling career in 2005, a cyclist specialized in one-day races and stage events. Competed in prestigious races including the Giro d'Italia, Paris-Roubaix, and the Tour of Flanders. Notable for strong performances in the Italian racing circuit and securing several national titles throughout career. Transitioned to roles in team management after retirement from competitive cycling.
Continue ReadingTaylor Lautner
American actor, known for Twilight
Born
February 11th, 1992 33 years ago
Gained prominence through a starring role in the Twilight film series, specifically portraying Jacob Black. Started acting in television shows, with early appearances in 'The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl'. Received multiple Teen Choice Awards for performances. Expanded career with roles in other films and television projects, including 'Cuckoo'.
Continue ReadingPhilip Dunne
American screenwriter of impactful films
Born
February 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent screenwriter in American cinema during the mid-20th century, this individual crafted screenplays that showcased strong narratives and complex characters. Significant works include 'The Grapes of Wrath', a film adaptation of John Steinbeck's novel, and 'How Green Was My Valley', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Contributions to the film industry extended beyond screenwriting, as involvement in various projects spanned across decades, influencing the craft of storytelling in films.
Continue ReadingJosh Jacobs
American football running back
Born
February 11th, 1998 27 years ago
A professional American football player, primarily played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Drafted in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders. Made a significant impact during the 2019 season, earning the title of NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Established himself as a key player for the Raiders, known for strong rushing performances and contribution to the team’s overall offense.
Continue ReadingKelly Rowland
American singer and actress, Destiny's Child member
Born
February 11th, 1981 44 years ago
Born February 11, 1981, prominent as a singer and actress. Rose to fame as a member of the girl group Destiny's Child alongside Beyoncé and Michelle Williams, which became one of the best-selling female groups of all time. Launched a successful solo career with hit albums, including 'Simply Deep' and 'Here I Am'. Acted in films such as 'Love by the 10th Date' and served as a judge on 'The X Factor' US version. Received various accolades, including Grammy Awards for both group and solo efforts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 8th
Josip Stadler
Croatian Archbishop and founder of schools
Born
January 24th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1918 107 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1843, an influential Croatian archbishop played a significant role in the education system of Croatia. Worked towards establishing educational institutions and improving the standards of schooling. Contributed to the development of Catholic education during a tumultuous period in Croatian history. Focused on fostering cultural and spiritual growth within the community through various initiatives and projects.
Continue ReadingJoseph B. Keenan
American jurist and politician
Born
January 11th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1954 71 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1888, a prominent American jurist and politician served as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of California. Played a significant role in New Deal policies during the 1930s while also engaging in various political initiatives. Worked as a special assistant to the Attorney General of the United States, focusing on issues related to civil rights and justice. Contributed to the legal landscape of California and shaped judicial practices within the state.
Continue ReadingDouglas Tompkins
Businessman and co-founder of The North Face
Born
March 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old
Co-founded outdoor apparel companies The North Face and Esprit Holdings. Established The North Face in 1966, focusing on high-quality outdoor gear. Expanded Esprit Holdings into a global fashion brand after its founding in 1968. Transitioned to environmental conservation, founding the Tompkins Conservation organization, which aimed to create national parks in Chile and Argentina. Played a significant role in land conservation efforts and reforestation projects in South America.
Continue ReadingBetty Holberton
Computer pioneer and programmer
Born
March 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2001 24 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed to the development of early computers, particularly the ENIAC, one of the first electronic general-purpose computers. Played a pivotal role in programming the ENIAC, which was instrumental in the advancement of computing technology. Participated in the development of the UNIVAC I, the first commercially available computer in the United States. Actively engaged in promoting computing education and advocating for women's roles in computer science.
Continue ReadingJohn Gowans
Scottish-English General of The Salvation Army
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 16th General of The Salvation Army, leading the organization from 1992 to 2002. During tenure, emphasized a mission focused on social justice and community service. Played a significant role in expanding the global outreach of The Salvation Army, implementing various programs to address poverty, addiction, and disaster relief. Worked on creating a more inclusive church environment while promoting the values of compassion and service through faith-based initiatives.
Continue ReadingRobert Jay Mathews
Militant leader, founded The Order
Born
January 16th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1984 41 years ago — 31 years old
An American militant leader founded The Order, a white supremacist organization, in 1983. The group sought to establish a white-only homeland in the Pacific Northwest and was involved in various criminal activities, including bank robbery and conspiracy to commit violence. Under the leadership, the organization gained notoriety for its paramilitary structure and extreme ideology. The group's operations were ultimately dismantled by law enforcement, culminating in Mathews' death during a standoff with the FBI in 1984.
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