Marta Russell
Author and activist advocating disability rights
Marta Russell was an American author and activist focused on disability rights and social justice. Significant contributions included publications addressing issues of disability and labor, particularly in the context of the U.S. economy. Her work highlighted the experiences of disabled individuals and advocated for their rights within various societal structures. Russell was active in the disability rights movement, emphasizing the need for policy changes to improve access and representation for disabled persons. Through writing and activism, she influenced discussions surrounding disability rights and social equity.
Authored 'Capitalism and Disability'
Advocated for disability rights
Other People Born on December 20th
Michel Chartrand
Canadian trade union leader
Born
December 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2010 15 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent trade union leader in Canada, this individual advocated for workers' rights and labor reform throughout the latter half of the 20th century. He played a crucial role in the formation of influential labor organizations and represented various labor interests across the nation. Engaging in numerous strikes and negotiations, this leader significantly influenced Canadian labor policies and the movement's growth overall. His work contributed to the establishment of better working conditions and fair labor practices.
Continue ReadingSepp van den Berg
Professional footballer, Liverpool FC
Born
December 20th, 2001 24 years ago
A Dutch professional footballer players primarily as a defender. Joined the youth academy of PEC Zwolle and made professional debut with the club. Transferred to Liverpool FC, competing in the Premier League. Also went on loan to various teams to gain experience and playing time at the senior level.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Howe
Deputy Prime Minister of the UK
Born
December 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a prominent British politician and lawyer. Held the office of Deputy Prime Minister from 1979 to 1987 under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Played a crucial role in shaping economic policies during the 1980s. Was a Member of Parliament for over 25 years, also serving as Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. Contributed significantly to the UK's stance in European affairs.
Continue ReadingAnžejs Pasečņiks
Latvian basketball player, EuroLeague athlete
Born
December 20th, 1995 30 years ago
Played professional basketball in Europe, primarily for the Latvian national team and clubs in Spain. Participated in the EuroLeague, one of the most prestigious basketball competitions. Competed at an international level, representing Latvia in various FIBA tournaments.
Continue ReadingHarry F. Byrd Jr.
American politician and newspaper publisher
Born
December 20th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 98 years old
Born in 1914, a prominent figure in Virginia politics, played a significant role in state and national governance. Served as a member of the U.S. Senate from 1965 to 1983. Prior to this, held various positions in state government including as the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Established a successful career in publishing, notably as the owner of the Winchester Star, a local newspaper. Advocated for fiscal conservatism and was involved in various state initiatives during his long political tenure.
Continue ReadingJaroslav Heyrovský
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1967 58 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Czech chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of electrochemistry. Developed the polarography technique, which revolutionized chemical analysis by allowing the measurement of minute quantities of substances. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1959 for this work, establishing a foundation for many modern electrochemical applications. In addition to research, held various academic positions and influenced the study of chemistry in Czech universities.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Thelma Todd
American actress in early comedies
Born
July 29th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1935 90 years ago — 29 years old
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 ReadingNicol Williamson
Scottish actor in 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution'
Born
September 14th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 73 years old
An accomplished Scottish actor, recognized for his versatile performances in film and theater. Gained prominence with roles in productions such as 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution' where he portrayed Sherlock Holmes and 'Excalibur' as Merlin. Most notable for a commanding stage presence and an ability to embody complex characters.
Continue ReadingHellmuth Walter
German-American engineer and inventor
Born
August 26th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1980 45 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Germany and later emigrating to the United States, contributed significantly to the development of rocket propulsion systems. Focused on innovative designs for jet engines and high-altitude technologies. Worked on various military projects during World War II and after. Founded a company specializing in aerospace engineering and advanced propulsion technology.
Continue ReadingLizmark
Mexican professional wrestler
Born
December 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old
Made significant contributions to the world of professional wrestling, particularly in the lucha libre style. Gained fame for high-flying maneuvers and technical skills. Competed in various wrestling promotions, including AAA and CMLL, and participated in notable rivalries during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingDick Van Arsdale
American basketball player, All-Star
Born
February 22nd, 1943 83 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Played basketball professionally in the NBA from 1965 to 1977. Spent the majority of career with the Phoenix Suns. Achieved an All-Star selection in 1970 and established a reputation as a skilled scorer and tenacious defender. After retirement, contributed to the sport as a coach and executive in the Suns' organization.
Continue ReadingJake Adam York
American poet and academic known for poetry
Born
1972 54 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 40 years old
This poet and academic focused on the intersection of place, memory, and history in the American South, expressing the complexity of identity through verse. York published several poetry collections, including 'A Murmuration of Starlings' and 'The Halo.' He contributed to the academic field through teaching and as an editor for various literary journals. His work often melded personal narratives with broader societal themes, providing insight into the Southern experience and the human condition.
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