Lee Van Cleef
American Actor in Western Films

Born
January 9th, 1925
100 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1989
35 years ago — 64 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Lee Van Cleef was an American actor best recognized for roles in Western films and television series. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, a film career began in the mid-1950s. Van Cleef gained prominence through appearances in the 'Spaghetti Western' genre, particularly in collaboration with director Sergio Leone. Films such as 'A Fistful of Dollars' and 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' showcased his talent. He also appeared in the television series 'The Master' and 'High Noon, Part II: 30 Years Later'. His distinctive features and commanding screen presence contributed to his legacy in the film industry.
A Fistful of Dollars
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
The Master
Other People Born on January 9th
Hakim Said
A prominent figure in Pakistan, served as the 20th Governor of Sindh. Contributed significantly to education and healthcare reforms. Established the Hamdard Foundation, promoting traditional medicine and education. Authored numerous books on medical and social issues.
Continue ReadingSamardo Samuels
Born in Jamaica, a basketball player spent time in high school and collegiate competitions before entering the NBA. Played for the Cleveland Cavaliers after going undrafted in 2011. Subsequent professional career included stints in multiple leagues around the world, including in the Spanish Liga ACB and the Chinese leagues. Had notable performances in various international competitions, representing teams from different countries.
Continue ReadingCaleb Strong
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 6th Governor of Massachusetts from 1800 to 1807 and again from 1812 to 1813. Played a key role in the Massachusetts Constitutional Convention in 1780. Participated in the debates surrounding the ratification of the United States Constitution. Had a significant influence on the state's early political landscape during the formative years of the United States.
Continue ReadingAlec Jeffreys
A geneticist and academic contributed to the field of genetics through the invention of DNA profiling techniques in the mid-1980s. This groundbreaking method allowed for the identification of individuals based on their unique DNA sequences and revolutionized forensic science, paternity testing, and genetic studies. Authored numerous research papers and books detailing genetic research and applications. Worked as a professor at the University of Leicester, mentoring future scientists and influencing advancements in molecular genetics.
Continue ReadingEva Bowring
Served as a prominent legal figure and politician in the United States. Contributed to legal reforms and women's rights during her career. Held the position of U.S. Senator from Nebraska, representing the state after the death of her predecessor. Advocated for various legislative measures aimed at improving social conditions.
Continue ReadingJudith Krantz
An American novelist achieved significant popularity through romantic fiction. Authored several bestselling novels, beginning with 'Scruples' in 1978, which explored the lives of high-society individuals. Followed this with other notable works such as 'Princess Daisy' and 'Mistral's Daughter'. Her novels often featured themes of love, ambition, and betrayal set against glamorous backdrops. Many of these works were adapted into television miniseries, contributing to a broader audience.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Kakuei Tanaka
Served as the 64th Prime Minister of Japan from 1972 to 1974. Played a significant role in Japan's post-war economic growth and focused on large-scale infrastructural projects. Involved in Japanese politics for decades, beginning his career as a member of the House of Representatives. Established the Tanaka Doctrine, promoting diplomacy and economic partnerships with Southeast Asia. Resigned amid a bribery scandal but left a lasting legacy on Japan’s modern political landscape.
Continue ReadingThelma Todd
An American actress and singer, became prominent during the late 1920s and early 1930s, primarily in comedy films. Featured in a series of short films with the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy. Starred in notable films such as 'Married Too Young' and 'The Party's Over'. Established a reputation for her comedic timing and captivating screen presence. Additionally, appeared in various films and stage productions throughout her career.
Continue ReadingYi Sun-sin
A prominent naval commander in the 16th century, played a crucial role in the Imjin War against Japanese invasions. Commanded the Korean navy and developed innovative strategies and ships, most notably the turtle ship, a precursor to modern ironclads. Achieved several decisive victories that secured Korea's coastal defenses and reputation. Battle of Myeongnyang showcased exceptional leadership, defeating a vastly outnumbered enemy fleet, contributing to the eventual end of the invasions. Instrumental in establishing naval tactics that would influence future maritime warfare.
Continue ReadingAllison Balfour
Accused of witchcraft during the late 16th century in Scotland. Faced allegations after a local scandal involving the mysterious death of a Scottish nobleman. Balfour was implicated in using witchcraft to harm others, leading to her trial. Ultimately executed as part of the broader witch hunts sweeping through Scotland during this period, which targeted many individuals under suspicion of practicing sorcery.
Continue ReadingFrançois Quesnay
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 ReadingIvan Fyodorov
An influential figure in the history of printing, initiated the establishment of the first Russian printing press in Moscow. Published the first printed book in Russia, 'Apostle', in 1564, which marked the beginning of book printing in the country. Contributed significantly to the spread of literacy and the availability of printed materials, facilitating the dissemination of knowledge in Russia. Worked to create typefaces and adapted the Cyrillic alphabet for printing, paving the way for future publications.
Continue Reading