Milos Raonic
Canadian tennis player, Wimbledon semi-finalist
A professional tennis player, achieved significant success on the ATP Tour. Gained prominence with strong serve and powerful groundstrokes. Reached the quarter-finals at the 2014 Australian Open and the semi-finals at Wimbledon in 2016. Ranked as high as World No. 3 in singles, marking a notable milestone in Canadian tennis history. Secured eight ATP singles titles during the career, showcasing consistent performance at various tournaments. Represented Canada in multiple Davis Cup competitions, contributing to the team's efforts at international levels.
Reached Wimbledon semi-finals in 2016
Achieved World No. 3 ATP ranking
Won 8 ATP singles titles
Other People Born on December 27th
Sydney Greenstreet
Actor from 'Casablanca' and 'The Maltese Falcon'
Born
December 27th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1954 71 years ago — 74 years old
An English-American actor, recognized for distinctive performances in film during Hollywood's Golden Age. Active mainly in the 1940s, portrayed memorable characters that showcased a commanding presence. Gained prominence through stage work prior to transitioning to film. Noteworthy for contributions to film noir and dramatic cinema, particularly in classic titles that have remained significant within the genre. Continued to act until the early 1950s, leaving a lasting legacy in the film industry.
Continue ReadingGuido Westerwelle
German politician and Vice-Chancellor
Born
December 27th, 1961 63 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2016 9 years ago — 54 years old
A German lawyer and politician served as the 15th Vice-Chancellor of Germany from 2009 to 2013. He held the position of Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs during the same period. Westerwelle was a prominent member of the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and played a significant role in shaping German foreign policy, focusing on human rights and international cooperation. He actively promoted liberal and progressive policies while advocating for civil liberties and European integration.
Continue ReadingWilfrid Sheed
American novelist and essayist
Born
December 27th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 81 years old
English-born American novelist and essayist contributed significantly to the literary world through insightful works. Gained recognition for both fiction and non-fiction, often exploring themes of culture and intellect. Authored novels such as 'George's Ghost' and wrote extensively for various publications, including essays that appeared in prominent magazines. Exhibited a keen ability to blend humor with serious commentary, making a mark in literary circles.
Continue ReadingFrançois-Marie-Thomas Chevalier de Lorimier
Canadian rebel leader during 1837
Born
December 27th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1839 186 years ago — 35 years old
A key leader in the Rebellions of 1837-1838 in Lower Canada, he played a significant role in the struggle against British colonial rule. Engaging in political activism and organizing forces, he sought to establish a responsible government. Following the defeat of the Patriotes, he was captured and tried for treason. He was executed by hanging on February 15, 1839, which marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for Canadian democracy and reform.
Continue ReadingBohdan Khmelnytsky
Hetman of Ukraine during the 17th century
Born
December 27th, 1595 429 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1657 368 years ago — 61 years old
Led a major rebellion against Polish-Lithuanian rule in Ukraine, establishing the Cossack state. Played a pivotal role in the formation of the Ukrainian Cossack Hetmanate. Formed an alliance with Russia, resulting in the Treaty of Pereyaslav in 1654, which sought to protect Ukraine's autonomy while aligning it with Russia for military support.
Continue ReadingJohn I of Aragon
Monarch of Aragon with a complex reign
Born
December 27th, 1350 674 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1396 629 years ago — 45 years old
Ruled as King of Aragon from 1387 until death in 1396. Challenges during the reign included internal conflicts and struggles over influence in the Iberian Peninsula. Worked to maintain Aragon’s alliances, particularly with the Papacy and in relations with Castile. Oversaw military campaigns against the Moors. His reign saw notable events like the siege of the central Catalan city of Barcelona.
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