Mehmet Akif Ersoy
Turkish poet and author of the national anthem
A prominent Turkish poet, academic, and politician, contributed to Turkish literature in the early 20th century. Became the author of the 'İstiklal Marşı', the Turkish National Anthem, which reflects themes of patriotism and independence. Through academic pursuits, engaged in teaching and writing, influencing cultural and political life. Served as a member of the Turkish Parliament following the establishment of the Republic.
Authored the Turkish National Anthem, 'İstiklal Marşı'
Contributed significantly to Turkish literature
Served as a member of the Turkish Parliament
Other People Born on December 20th
Jonah Hill
Actor and filmmaker in comedy films
Born
December 20th, 1983 42 years ago
Started a career in entertainment by writing and producing, followed by a successful acting career. Gained prominence through performances in films such as 'Superbad,' '21 Jump Street,' and 'The Wolf of Wall Street.' Expanded involvement in cinema as a producer and director. Received two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor for roles in 'Moneyball' and 'The Wolf of Wall Street.'
Continue ReadingJorginho
Footballer; UEFA Euro 2020 Champion
Born
December 20th, 1991 34 years ago
A Brazilian footballer, celebrated for playing as a midfielder. Made a significant impact in top leagues in Europe, prominently featuring for Chelsea FC in the Premier League. Contributed to the team's success in securing the UEFA Champions League title in 2021. Played an essential role in Italy's victory at UEFA Euro 2020, showcasing exceptional skills and tactical awareness. Maintained a reputation for precise passing and effective ball control throughout a distinguished career.
Continue ReadingDe'Aaron Fox
Professional basketball player, NBA star
Born
December 20th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional basketball player, played as a point guard in the NBA. Drafted 5th overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2017 NBA Draft. Achieved All-Rookie First Team honors in 2018. Participated in the NBA All-Star Weekend events, showcasing talent and skill. Played college basketball at the University of Kentucky before entering the NBA.
Continue ReadingJarrod Bowen
English football player for West Ham United
Born
December 20th, 1996 29 years ago
Professional football player, played primarily as a winger. Started career at Hereford United before moving to Hull City in 2014, where notable performances contributed to the team's promotion to the EFL Championship. Transferred to West Ham United in 2020, becoming a key player for the team. Contributed to West Ham's success in the UEFA Europa Conference League, securing the title in 2023. Represented the England national team at various youth levels, later making senior team appearances.
Continue ReadingKylian Mbappé
Footballer; multiple-time Ligue 1 champion
Born
December 20th, 1998 27 years ago
A prominent footballer emerged in the early 2010s. Achieved recognition with AS Monaco, winning the Ligue 1 title in 2017. Transferred to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017 for a substantial fee and continued to excel in domestic and international fixtures. Played a crucial role in the French national team, winning the FIFA World Cup in 2018. Known for remarkable speed, technical skill, and goal-scoring ability, consistently ranks among the top players in the world.
Continue ReadingAndrea Belotti
Professional footballer; Torino FC striker
Born
December 20th, 1993 32 years ago
This Italian footballer began his career with U.S. Città di Palermo, making a mark in Serie A. A notable forward, achieved significant recognition during tenure at Torino FC. Contributed to the team's offense with consistent scoring and strong performances on the pitch. Internationally, represented Italy, participating in various European competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 27th
George Roy Hill
American director of 'Butch Cassidy'
Born
December 20th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2002 23 years ago — 81 years old
Acclaimed director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to American cinema during the 20th century. Major works include classics such as 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'The Sting', both of which received critical and commercial success. 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' became a cultural phenomenon, blending humor with action in a Western setting. 'The Sting' showcased an intricate plot with memorable performances and won seven Academy Awards. Hill's work often involved collaboration with notable actors, enhancing the storytelling through engaging character development and direction.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Pacheco
Salvadoran footballer and national team player
Born
1982 44 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 33 years old
Played as a defender in professional football, primarily for Alianza FC in El Salvador. Represented the national team, participating in numerous international competitions, including the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Pacheco's career spanned over a decade, marked by his consistent performances at both club and international levels until retirement.
Continue ReadingStein Eriksen
Norwegian-American Olympic skier
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Originated from Norway, celebrated for excellence in alpine skiing. Competed in the 1952 Winter Olympics and clinched the gold medal in slalom and silver in giant slalom. Also played a pivotal role in advancing the sport in the United States after moving there. Besides racing, involved in ski instruction and promotion of skiing as a recreational sport, contributing to the development of ski resorts.
Continue ReadingZona Gale
American novelist and playwright
Born
August 26th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1938 87 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1874, a prominent American novelist, short story writer, and playwright, focused on small-town life and women's issues. Gained recognition for contributions to literature during the early 20th century. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1921 for the play 'Miss Lulu Bett', which explored themes of personal freedom and the constraints of societal expectations. Authored various works that showcased the dynamics of small communities and the complexities of human relationships.
Continue ReadingEllsworth Kelly
American painter and sculptor of color fields
Born
May 31st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old
An influential figure in the contemporary art movement, created works that emphasize color and form. Developed a distinctive style that contributed to the Color Field painting genre. Established a significant career through innovative approaches to painting and sculpture. Explored the intersection of abstraction and representation, often using vibrant colors and geometric shapes. His large-scale installations and canvases have been exhibited in major galleries and museums, enhancing the dialogue surrounding modern art.
Continue ReadingSalt Walther
Race car driver, 1978 Indy 500 participant
Born
November 22nd, 1947 78 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1947, this individual began racing in the 1970s. He competed in various championships, achieving significant recognition within the motorsport community. The highlight of the racing career occurred in 1978 with participation in the Indianapolis 500, one of the premier events in American auto racing. His endeavors in the automotive industry extended beyond the racetrack, influencing upcoming drivers and the sport itself.
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