Ólafur Thors
Icelandic lawyer and Prime Minister
A prominent figure in Icelandic politics, served as Prime Minister during two non-consecutive terms from 1954 to 1956 and from 1963 to 1965. Played a significant role in shaping post-war Icelandic society and governance. Additionally, held various ministerial positions throughout the political career, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Fisheries. Contributed to the development of Iceland’s legal framework and international relations.
Served as Prime Minister of Iceland
Held the position of Minister of Justice
Served as Minister of Fisheries
Other People Born on January 19th
Jean-Philippe Baratier
German scholar and author of 'Historia Naturalis'
Born
January 19th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1740 285 years ago — 19 years old
Contributed significantly to natural history through scholarly writing. Published 'Historia Naturalis', which focused on various aspects of nature and the environment. Engaged in academic study and discourse, providing insights and knowledge relevant to the natural sciences during the 18th century. Involved in the intellectual circles of the time, fostering discussions aimed at understanding natural phenomena and their implications.
Continue ReadingRex Ingamells
Australian author and poet
Born
January 19th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1955 69 years ago — 42 years old
Rex Ingamells was an Australian author and poet who contributed significantly to Australian literature. A member of the Melbourne-based literary community, he focused on themes relevant to Australian identity and landscapes. Ingamells published several poetry collections and essays that illustrated his connection to the natural world. His works often reflected on the complexities of life and the human experience in Australia. He was also involved in promoting Australian literature through various initiatives and organizations, advocating for the recognition of Australian writers.
Continue ReadingRobin tom Rink
German singer-songwriter known for music career
Born
January 19th, 1982 43 years ago
A singer-songwriter who gained attention in the German music scene. Released several albums and singles, achieving commercial success and recognition. Blended various musical styles, contributing to the contemporary pop landscape in Germany. Engaged with fans through performances and social media, showcasing a commitment to connecting with the audience.
Continue ReadingZiaur Rahman
Bangladeshi politician and president
Born
January 19th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1981 44 years ago — 45 years old
Served as a general in the Bangladesh Army and became the seventh President of Bangladesh. Assumed office in 1977 following a military coup. Played a key role in founding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1978, which became a major political force in the country. Focused on economic development and stabilization during his presidency, implementing various policies to boost the economy. Assassinated in 1981, leaving a significant legacy in Bangladeshi politics.
Continue ReadingClaudio Marchisio
Italian footballer and Juventus midfielder
Born
January 19th, 1986 39 years ago
Played as a midfielder primarily for Juventus, having joined the club's youth academy. Debuted in 2006 and contributed to the team's multiple Serie A title victories from 2012 to 2019. Represented the Italian national team, participating in the FIFA World Cup in 2010, 2014, and 2018, and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Euro 2020.
Continue ReadingJohn H. Johnson
American publisher and founder of Ebony
Born
January 19th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 8th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old
Established the Johnson Publishing Company in 1942, which became the largest African American-owned publisher in the United States. Launched Ebony magazine, a leading publication that focused on African American culture and issues. Also published Jet magazine, which provided news and entertainment focused on the African American community. Advocated for the representation of African Americans in media throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Betty White
Actress and television personality
Born
January 17th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021 3 years ago — 99 years old
An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.
Continue ReadingEileen Heckart
American actress in stage and film
Born
March 29th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2001 23 years ago — 82 years old
An actress with a career spanning over six decades in film, television, and theater. Gained prominence for roles in the Broadway production of 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs' and the film 'Butterflies Are Free'. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in 'Butterflies Are Free'. Appeared in multiple television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Love Boat'.
Continue ReadingGeorge Sisler
Baseball player and scout, Hall of Famer
Born
March 24th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2006 18 years ago — 113 years old
An American baseball player and scout, garnered fame in Major League Baseball primarily as a first baseman. Played for the St. Louis Browns from 1915 to 1927 and had a remarkable career, achieving a batting average of .340 over 15 seasons. In 1922, led the league in batting average and hits, earning the American League MVP award. After retirement, served as a scout for various teams, contributing to the development of future talent in the sport.
Continue ReadingLudolph van Ceulen
Mathematician; introduced pi calculation
Born
January 28th, 1540 485 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1610 414 years ago — 70 years old
German-Dutch mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in the calculation of pi. Van Ceulen spent a considerable portion of his life calculating the value of pi to 35 decimal places. This achievement was commemorated on his tombstone in St. Peter's Church in Leyden. He also authored several works on geometry and was a notable figure in the mathematical community during the 16th century. His work laid important groundwork for future developments in mathematics and numerical computation.
Continue ReadingMargaret, Countess of Anjou
Noblewoman and Countess of Anjou
Born
1273 752 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1299 725 years ago — 26 years old
Born in the 13th century, held the title of Countess of Anjou through marriage. Became the mother of notable descendants who played significant roles in the European aristocracy. Contributed to alliances and political relations between various noble houses. The marriage strengthened connections between England and France during a tumultuous period in history.
Continue ReadingWesley Addy
American actor in television and film
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1996 28 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, prominent during the mid-20th century, worked extensively in television and film. Appeared in leading roles on series such as 'The Edge of Night' and 'The Defenders'. Had a successful career in Broadway, particularly celebrated for performances in productions like 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'. Also featured in movies including 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'.
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