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
Trent Frederic
Ice hockey player for the Boston Bruins
Born
February 11th, 1998 27 years ago
An ice hockey player prominently participated in the NHL with the Boston Bruins. Drafted in 2016, contributed to the team’s efforts in competitive leagues. Recognized for strong performances in key matches and playoffs. Played a critical role in the Bruins' campaign during the playoffs and regular seasons, showcasing physicality and teamwork.
Continue ReadingRick Karsdorp
Dutch footballer and Roma defender
Born
February 11th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a right-back. Started career at FC Groningen, making significant contributions to the club. Transferred to AS Roma, where played in Serie A and achieved notable success in cup competitions. Gained recognition for consistent performances and contributions to both club and national teams. Participated in international tournaments with the Netherlands national team.
Continue ReadingJoy Williams
Novelist and short story writer
Born
February 11th, 1944 81 years ago
An American novelist, short story writer, and essayist. Authored several acclaimed novels and collections of short stories. Works often explore themes of existence, nature, and human relationships. Her writing style is noted for its precision and complexity. Contributed significantly to contemporary literature through both fiction and essays.
Continue ReadingLucile Randon
French supercentenarian and record-holder
Born
February 11th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2023 3 years ago — 118 years old
Born on February 11, 1904, this individual lived to the age of 118, becoming the world's oldest validated living person upon the passing of the previous record-holder. She resided in France and spent many of her later years in a nursing home. Throughout her life, she witnessed significant global events, including two world wars and numerous societal changes. She engaged in various activities, including caring for orphans during her younger years. Her longevity contributed to public interest in aging and health.
Continue ReadingBen McLemore
Basketball player, NBA star with the Kings
Born
February 11th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, a professional basketball player entered the NBA after a standout collegiate career at the University of Kansas. Drafted seventh overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2013, played multiple seasons with the team and showed proficiency as a scorer. Later, played for the Memphis Grizzlies and other teams, contributing to their offensive strategies. Developed a reputation for three-point shooting throughout his career.
Continue ReadingDansby Swanson
Baseball player, 2021 World Series Champion
Born
February 11th, 1994 31 years ago
Professional baseball player, primarily plays as a shortstop. Drafted first overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2015 and later traded to the Atlanta Braves. Contributed to the Braves' success, culminating in a World Series championship in 2021. Celebrated for strong defensive skills and consistent hitting performance throughout his career. Recognized as an All-Star in 2022, reflecting excellence in the position and significant contributions to his team.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 8th
William Shawn
Journalist and editor of The New Yorker
Born
August 31st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1992 33 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent journalist and editor, this individual led The New Yorker for over 35 years, shaping its editorial voice and content. Under this leadership, the magazine grew in prominence as a platform for literary and journalistic excellence. This individual prioritized serious journalism and showcased the works of numerous writers and artists, establishing a space for critical and cultural commentary. Renowned for commitment to editorial integrity, the editorial policies emphasized in-depth reporting and narrative storytelling.
Continue ReadingRose Heilbron
British barrister and judge
Born
August 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
Graduated from the University of Liverpool with a law degree. Became one of the first female barristers in the UK in 1944, achieving significant milestones in a male-dominated field. Appointed as a judge in the Family Division of the High Court in 1979. Played a crucial role in several notable cases, particularly in family law. Served as the first female leader of the Bar Council and helped pave the way for women in law.
Continue ReadingMaximilian von Spee
Admiral during World War I
Born
June 22nd, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1914 111 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1861, served as an admiral in the Imperial German Navy. Commanded the East Asia Squadron, engaging in naval battles during World War I. Led the fleet that participated in the Battle of Coronel, which resulted in a significant naval victory for Germany. Engaged in the Battle of the Falkland Islands, where the squadron faced defeat. Instrumental in establishing German naval presence in the Pacific region.
Continue ReadingCaroll Spinney
Puppeteer and voice actor of Big Bird
Born
December 26th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2019 6 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent puppeteer and voice actor, contributed significantly to children's television. Created and performed beloved characters Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch on the show 'Sesame Street' for over four decades. Launched a successful career that combined puppetry with storytelling, making a lasting impact on educational television. Spinney's work involved elaborate puppeteering techniques and engaging vocal performances, earning recognition and awards in the industry.
Continue ReadingOliver Postgate
Animator and puppeteer for children's TV
Born
April 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
An English animator and puppeteer, contributed significantly to children's television. Developed the iconic series Bagpuss and Noggin the Nog, which became staples of British children's programming. Utilized a unique stop-motion animation technique using puppets and models. Collaborated with Peter Firmin to create a distinctive visual style that defined many of the productions.
Continue ReadingRichard Baxter
Theologian and poet of English Puritanism
Born
November 12th, 1615 410 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1691 334 years ago — 76 years old
A significant figure in the English Puritan movement, this individual served as a minister and played a key role in the development of Protestant thought. Recognized for extensive writings, particularly 'The Saints' Everlasting Rest' and 'The Reformed Pastor', which addressed pastoral care and spiritual devotion. Contributed to religious and philosophical discourse through sermons and publications that explored Christian doctrine. Engaged in theological debates during a turbulent period in English history, promoting a consensus among varying religious factions.
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