Michael P. Anderson

Colonel, pilot, NASA astronaut

Michael P. Anderson - Colonel, pilot, NASA astronaut
Born

December 25th, 1959
65 years ago

Died

2003
22 years ago — 44 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1959, a colonel in the United States Air Force and a NASA astronaut. Flew on the Space Shuttle missions STS-89 and STS-107. Served as a pilot for various military aircraft and contributed to scientific research during spaceflights. Tragically lost during the STS-107 mission, which aimed to conduct experiments in multiple scientific disciplines.

Flew on Space Shuttle missions STS-89 and STS-107

Contributed to scientific research in microgravity

Other People Born on December 25th

Mike Mazurki

Wrestler and actor in horror films
Born
December 25th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1990 35 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Ukraine, this individual emigrated to the United States and gained recognition as a professional wrestler. Achieving success in the wrestling circuit, he later transitioned to acting, often portraying imposing characters. Notable roles included appearances in films such as 'The Beast with Five Fingers' and 'Freaks.' His unique physical presence allowed for memorable performances in various horror genres during the 1940s and 1950s. Mazurki also had a significant career in television, appearing in series like 'The Twilight Zone.'

Continue Reading

Ferman Akgül

Turkish singer-songwriter and musician
Born
December 25th, 1979 45 years ago

A prominent Turkish singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the Turkish rock music scene. Gained widespread recognition as the lead vocalist of the band maNga, which formed in 2001. Achieved considerable success with the album 'maNga', which led to winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2010 with the song 'We Could Be the Same'. In addition to music, involved in various artistic projects and collaborations, enhancing the cultural landscape in Turkey.

Continue Reading

Johann Adam Hiller

German composer and conductor of operas
Born
December 25th, 1728 296 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1804 221 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1728, a significant figure in the German opera scene during the 18th century. Contributed to the development of Singspiel, a form of German musical theater. Hiller served as a conductor at the Leipzig opera and played a crucial role in establishing a vibrant musical culture in the city. Composed over 40 operas, many of which were popular during his lifetime. Had a keen interest in music education and wrote several theoretical works on music as well as a notable opera, 'Die Jagd'. His efforts in opera and music theory left a lasting mark on German music.

Continue Reading

John IV Laskaris

Byzantine Emperor during the 13th century
Born
December 25th, 1250 774 years ago
Died
1305 720 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1250, a Byzantine emperor reigned during a time of significant turmoil. Ascended to the throne as a child after the fall of Constantinople to the Latin Empire. His reign was marked by the struggle against Latin rule and the efforts to restore Byzantine sovereignty. His rule faced challenges from within the empire and external pressures from rival factions. The emperor spent part of his reign under the influence of his guardian, Michael VIII Palaiologos, who eventually took control of the throne. Despite efforts to secure Byzantine territories, his reign ultimately ended with the rise of the Palaiologos dynasty.

Continue Reading

Ian Bostridge

English tenor and classical singer
Born
December 25th, 1964 60 years ago

Born in 1964, this English tenor has made significant contributions to the field of classical music, especially in the realm of art song and opera. Studied at Oxford and later at the National Opera Studio, gained recognition for the interpretation of works by composers such as Schubert, Britten, and Handel. Performed at prestigious venues including the Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera. Released multiple acclaimed recordings, earning several prestigious awards for artistry and vocal excellence.

Continue Reading

Oscar Lewis

American anthropologist of Latin America
Born
December 25th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1970 54 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of anthropology with a focus on the lives and cultures of the poor in Latin America. Developed the concept of the 'culture of poverty' based on extensive fieldwork in Mexico and Puerto Rico. Spent much of his career studying the socio-economic conditions affecting marginalized communities and published numerous works that highlighted social conditions and human behavior.

Continue Reading