Larry Doby
Baseball player, first in American League
Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder, making history as the first African American player in the American League. Doby made his debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1947, just a few months after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in the National League. During his career, Doby was a key contributor to the Indians' 1948 World Series championship team, showcasing exceptional skills both offensively and defensively. Doby later played for the Chicago White Sox and contributed to the team's success during his tenure. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and manager in various leagues, contributing to the development of the sport.
First African American player in the American League
Member of the 1948 World Series champion Cleveland Indians
Selected for the All-Star Game multiple times
Other People Born on December 13th
Solomon Feferman
Mathematician and philosopher of logic
Born
December 13th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old
Contributions to mathematical logic and philosophy were significant. The work involved the foundations of mathematics, proof theory, and the philosophy of mathematics. Served as a faculty member at Stanford University for several decades and held the title of Professor Emeritus. Engaged in dialogues regarding the nature of mathematical truth and the limits of formal systems. Influence extended to various debates within mathematical and philosophical communities.
Continue ReadingHans-Joachim Marseille
German Luftwaffe pilot and fighter ace
Born
December 13th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1942 83 years ago — 22 years old
A distinguished Luftwaffe pilot during World War II, achieved fame as a fighter ace. Recognized for impressive aerial combat skills, credited with shooting down hundreds of enemy aircraft. Gained a reputation for tactics and flying maneuvers in the Messerschmitt Bf 109. Met an early death in 1942, yet remains one of the top aces of the war.
Continue ReadingHenry IV of France
King of France and Edict of Nantes
Born
December 13th, 1553 472 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1610 415 years ago — 56 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1589 until his assassination in 1610. First monarch of the House of Bourbon, significantly strengthened the central authority of the French state. Promoted religious tolerance with the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting substantial rights to Huguenots after decades of civil war over religious disputes. Implemented economic reforms that led to recovery and improvement in agriculture and trade. His reign marked the transition from the Wars of Religion to a period of relative peace.
Continue ReadingPope Sixtus V
Pope and ecclesiastical reformer
Born
December 13th, 1521 504 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1590 435 years ago — 68 years old
Ascended to the papacy in 1585, serving until 1590. Implemented significant administrative reforms within the Catholic Church. Consolidated papal power through centralization and the establishment of a more efficient governance structure. Driven by a vision of reform, fostered construction and urban development, emphasizing the importance of Rome as the heart of Christendom. Championed the promotion of the Catholic faith and worked to counter the Protestant Reformation.
Continue ReadingB. J. Vorster
South African politician and statesman
Born
December 13th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1983 42 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 4th State President of South Africa from 1966 to 1978. Held various ministerial positions prior to presidency, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Police. Focused on the policies of apartheid, emphasizing security and law enforcement. Promoted the interests of the Afrikaner population and supported strong ties with the United States during the Cold War. His administration faced international criticism and economic sanctions due to apartheid policies.
Continue ReadingYongzheng Emperor
Chinese Emperor during the Qing Dynasty
Born
December 13th, 1678 347 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1735 290 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1678, the Yongzheng Emperor reigned from 1722 to 1735 as the third emperor of the Qing dynasty. His rule followed that of his father, the Kangxi Emperor. The Yongzheng Emperor implemented significant administrative reforms aimed at improving government efficiency and reducing corruption. He focused on consolidating imperial power and enhancing the central authority. The emperor also invested in infrastructure projects, such as irrigation systems and roads, which promoted agriculture and trade. The Yongzheng Emperor was a patron of the arts, and his reign is noted for contributions to literature and painting. His efforts to ensure stability laid the groundwork for continued prosperity during the Qianlong Emperor’s rule.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 18th
Trent Acid
American professional wrestler
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 30 years old
A professional wrestler in the independent circuit, recognized for contributions to the hardcore wrestling scene. Competed in promotions such as Combat Zone Wrestling and Ring of Honor, showcasing high-flying and extreme wrestling styles. Competed frequently in tag teams, including notable partnerships that gained attention from wrestling fans. Various wrestling accolades were achieved throughout a career marked by a commitment to the craft.
Continue ReadingJames Chance
American musician and saxophonist
Born
April 20th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 71 years old
A significant figure in the No Wave movement, this artist blended punk and jazz to create a unique sound. The work incorporated elements of avant-garde music and performance art. The artist's mixtape approach and energetic performances gained a cult following. Influential in the development of the downtown New York City music scene, the artist collaborated with various musicians and bands throughout the career. Key works include the album 'Fired Up' and collaborations with the band James White and the Blacks, which played a crucial role in shaping the genre.
Continue ReadingMax Immelmann
German fighter pilot of World War I
Born
September 21st, 1890 135 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1916 109 years ago — 25 years old
Served as a fighter pilot during World War I, achieving notoriety as one of Germany's first aerial aces. Immelmann engaged in numerous dogfights, demonstrating exceptional skill and bravery in the air. He developed the Immelmann turn, a tactical maneuver for gaining a height advantage over an opponent. His accomplishments contributed significantly to German aviation efforts during the war before his death in 1916.
Continue ReadingGarde Gardom
Lawyer and Lieutenant Governor of BC
Born
July 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old
Graduated from the University of British Columbia with a law degree and practiced law for several years. Served in various public roles, including membership in the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. Appointed as the 26th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia from 1995 to 2001, representing the monarch in the province and performing various ceremonial duties. Contributed to numerous community and charitable organizations throughout his career.
Continue ReadingEthel Barrymore
American actress and theater performer
Born
August 15th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1959 66 years ago — 79 years old
A celebrated stage and film actress, contributions spanned several decades from the late 19th to mid-20th centuries. Gained acclaim for performances in prominent plays and movies, particularly in productions such as 'The Corn is Green' and 'The Royal Family'. Renowned for a commanding presence and emotional depth in roles, established a legacy within American theater, setting standards for future generations of actors. Received several awards for performances, including a special Academy Award.
Continue ReadingRoald Amundsen
Polar explorer and first to South Pole
Born
July 16th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1928 97 years ago — 55 years old
Accomplished polar explorer played a pivotal role in the Age of Exploration. Led the first successful expedition to reach the South Pole in December 1911, preceding Robert Falcon Scott's arrival by over a month. Also known for navigating the Northwest Passage through the Arctic, achieving this feat from 1903 to 1906. Focused on meticulous planning and preparation, utilizing innovative techniques and equipment for the harsh polar environment. His expeditions advanced knowledge of polar regions and contributed to the field of exploration.
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