Lee J. Cobb
American actor, prominent in film and theater
An accomplished actor in film and theater, he gained significant attention during the mid-20th century. Cobb appeared in various classic films and stage productions, showcasing remarkable versatility. Roles in films like '12 Angry Men' and 'On the Waterfront' highlighted his talent. He also earned acclaim for his stage performance in 'Death of a Salesman'. His career spanned several decades, with work across genres and mediums, leading to a lasting legacy in American acting.
Starred in '12 Angry Men' as Juror 3
Featured in 'On the Waterfront' as Johnny Friendly
Played Willy Loman in 'Death of a Salesman'
Other People Born on December 8th
Mike Buchanan
Men's Rights Advocate and Author
Born
December 8th, 1957 68 years ago
A men's rights advocate active in the UK. Founded the political party Justice for Men and Boys. Advocated for men's issues, including family law reform and related discussions. Authored multiple works addressing perceived biases in gender issues. Engaged with various media outlets to promote these views.
Continue ReadingFlip Wilson
American actor and comedian, The Flip Wilson Show
Born
December 8th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1998 27 years ago — 64 years old
An American actor and comedian, recognized for a groundbreaking television variety show that aired in the early 1970s. The Flip Wilson Show earned numerous accolades and significantly contributed to the popularity of sketch comedy. This individual also created the comedic character Geraldine Jones, which became a defining aspect of the show. The performer was among the first African Americans to host a television variety series, paving the way for future generations in entertainment.
Continue ReadingJames Tate
American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
December 8th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
July 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1943, this individual emerged as a significant voice in American poetry. He authored numerous collections, with a unique style blending the surreal with the everyday. Major works include 'The Lost Pilot' and 'Worshipful Company of Fletchers.' His contributions to literature were recognized with the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1992. The poet taught at various institutions, influencing many through his teaching and workshops.
Continue ReadingMary, Queen of Scots
Scottish monarch and political figure
Born
December 8th, 1542 483 years ago
Died
1587 439 years ago — 45 years old
Born in Scotland, ascended to the throne at six days old after the death of her father, James V. Spent much of her early years in France, where she married Francis II, becoming queen consort. Returned to Scotland in 1561 to reign for a tumultuous period marked by religious conflict and political intrigue. Imprisoned in England for 19 years by her cousin, Elizabeth I, due to fears of her claims to the English throne. Executed in 1587 after being implicated in a plot against Elizabeth I's life.
Continue ReadingEli Whitney
American engineer and inventor of cotton gin
Born
December 8th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
1825 201 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1765, this American engineer played a pivotal role in the industrial revolution with the invention of the cotton gin in 1793, which significantly increased the efficiency of cotton processing. The invention transformed the cotton industry and had a lasting impact on agriculture in the United States. In addition to the cotton gin, also contributed to the development of interchangeable parts in manufacturing, which laid the groundwork for modern production techniques.
Continue ReadingArchduke Maximilian Francis of Austria
Austrian Archduke and military leader
Born
December 8th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
1801 225 years ago — 45 years old
Born in 1756, an Austrian Archduke served in various military capacities, achieving the rank of Field Marshal. Led troops during the Napoleonic Wars and contributed to military reform efforts within the Habsburg Monarchy. His career included participation in key battles and strategic planning in military operations. Maximilian also held administrative roles, influencing political structures in the Austrian Empire.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 11th
Lord Kitchener
Trinidadian Calypso singer and songwriter
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2000 25 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent calypso singer and songwriter, led the calypso scene in Trinidad during the 20th century. Gained popularity for incorporating social commentary and cultural themes into music. Honored with the title of the 'Calypso King' multiple times and became a key figure in the genre's evolution. Relocated to England in the 1940s, where created significant works that contributed to the British Caribbean music scene. Continued to perform and record until the late 1990s, solidifying a legacy in calypso music.
Continue ReadingPietro Cataldi
Italian mathematician and astronomer
Born
April 15th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1626 399 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed to mathematics and astronomy during the Renaissance. Developed the theory of proportionality and made advancements in astronomical calculations. Emphasized the importance of geometrical principles in mathematical study. Published significant works that influenced later scholars in the field of mathematics.
Continue ReadingKen Fletcher
Australian tennis player with doubles titles
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old
Achieved significant success in tennis, particularly in men's doubles competitions. Won the Australian Open men's doubles title in 1965 alongside his partner. Competed in various Grand Slams, showcasing talent on both grass and hard courts. Contributed to the sport in various capacities after retirement, including coaching and mentoring younger players.
Continue ReadingFrank Piasecki
American aerospace engineer and inventor
Born
October 24th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 88 years old
An aerospace engineer and inventor, contributed significantly to the development of rotorcraft technology. Co-founded Piasecki Helicopter Corporation in the 1940s. Pioneered the design of innovative helicopters, including the world's first twin-rotor helicopter, the PV-2. Additionally, worked on the development of the PV-3 and developed the first successful flying car prototype, the Airgeep.
Continue ReadingNeil Bonnett
Race car driver, NASCAR Cup Series winner
Born
July 30th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1994 31 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent figure in NASCAR racing, achievements included victories in the NASCAR Cup Series during the 1980s and early 1990s. Bonnett competed for several teams, including Junior Johnson & Associates and Richard Childress Racing. Notably associated with the famed #12 car, earned respect as a talented driver with a strong presence in the sport. Participated in over 700 races and claimed multiple wins, contributing to the legacy of NASCAR.
Continue ReadingRoger Hanin
French actor and director of 'Navarro'
Born
October 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
An actor, director, and screenwriter from France. Gained prominence through performances in television series and films, particularly memorable for portraying police chief Navarro in the long-running French show 'Navarro'. Directed several films, demonstrating a wide range of creative talents. Worked in theater and was active in promoting French cinema throughout a career spanning over five decades.
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