Paul Castellano

American mafia boss, Gambino family leader

Paul Castellano - American mafia boss, Gambino family leader
Born

June 26th, 1915
110 years ago

Died

December 16th, 1985
39 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1915, this individual rose to prominence within the Gambino crime family, becoming its boss in the 1970s. Castellano was involved in various illegal activities, including extortion, racketeering, and drug trafficking. His leadership style marked a shift in the organization, emphasizing business operations over traditional gangster tactics. In December 1985, he was assassinated in a power struggle that highlighted the violent rivalries within the Mafia. Castellano's life and death illustrated the complexities of mob leadership during a turbulent era for organized crime in America.

Led the Gambino crime family

Assassinated in 1985

Other People Born on June 26th

Philip Doddridge

English hymn-writer and educator
Born
June 26th, 1702 323 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1751 273 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent hymn-writer and educator in England, contributed significantly to 18th-century evangelicalism. Established a dissenting academy in Northampton, which became influential in training Nonconformist ministers. Authored several influential works, including 'The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul' and more than 400 hymns, many of which remain in use today. Advocacy for religious education had a lasting impact on Nonconformist thought.

Continue Reading

Candace Pert

Neuroscientist and pharmacologist
Born
June 26th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
September 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 67 years old

A significant figure in neuroscience and pharmacology, contributed to the discovery of opiate receptors, which revolutionized the understanding of pain management and addiction. Developed the concept of neuropeptides as signaling molecules in the brain, exploring their roles in emotions and behavior. Conducted pivotal research on the interactions between the immune system and the brain, establishing links crucial for understanding health and disease.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand II of Naples

King of Naples and Aragon
Born
June 26th, 1467 558 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1496 529 years ago — 29 years old

Born in 1467, Ferdinand II ruled as the King of Naples and Aragon. His reign was marked by political consolidation and territorial expansion. Ferdinand played a key role in the Italian Wars, asserting control over the Kingdom of Naples amidst conflicts involving various European powers. His marriage to Isabella of Castile solidified an important dynastic alliance. Under his leadership, the kingdom underwent significant administrative reforms and economic development, along with efforts to strengthen royal authority and reduce feudal power. Ferdinand's reign ended with his death in 1496, leaving a legacy that influenced subsequent political structures in Italy.

Continue Reading

Debs Garms

Baseball player for the Pittsburgh Pirates
Born
June 26th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1983 41 years ago — 76 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1935 to 1946. Spent the majority of career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, contributing to the team's success in the National League. Achieved a notable batting average and earned the nickname 'The Human Sweepstake'. Also played for the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals during career.

Continue Reading

Samir Nasri

Professional footballer, Arsenal star
Born
June 26th, 1987 38 years ago

A professional footballer, played as a midfielder. Developed skills at Marseille and gained recognition for technical ability and creativity on the ball. Transferred to Arsenal, where contributed significantly to the team's performance in the Premier League. Later joined Manchester City, winning numerous domestic titles, including the Premier League. Played a crucial role in France's national team, participating in major tournaments such as the UEFA European Championship.

Continue Reading

Dave Grusin

American pianist and composer of scores
Born
June 26th, 1934 91 years ago

A significant figure in the music industry, this individual has composed numerous film scores and has been involved in various musical collaborations. With a career spanning several decades, contributions to jazz music and film soundtracks stand out prominently. Collaborated with artists across genres, producing works that include Grammy-winning recordings. Has also received acclaim for the incorporation of innovative techniques in music production and recording.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 16th

Camille Saint-Saëns

French composer and conductor, 'Carnival of the Animals'
Born
October 9th, 1835 189 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1921 103 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent French composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of the symphonic poem and opera. Composed the opera 'Samson and Delilah', which gained acclaim in the late 19th century. Also created orchestral works such as 'Danse Macabre' and symphonies, incorporating elements of French nationalism. Worked as a conductor, leading various orchestras throughout Europe and promoting the works of fellow composers.

Continue Reading

Sir William James

Welsh-English commander and politician
Born
1720 305 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1783 241 years ago — 63 years old

A 1st Baronet, served in significant military roles and held political office during the 18th century. As a commander, contributed to the British efforts during various conflicts, actively participating in military strategies and operations. Engaged in parliamentary activities, influencing policies of the time.

Continue Reading

Agnes Martin

Painter with major abstract works
Born
March 22nd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2004 20 years ago — 92 years old

An influential painter and educator, this individual contributed significantly to the field of abstract art. Early life included experiences in both Canada and the United States, leading to the development of a unique artistic style characterized by subtle color palettes and grid-like compositions. Influenced by various philosophical ideals, particularly Zen Buddhism, the work emphasizes simplicity and serenity. Achievements include numerous solo exhibitions and a lasting legacy in contemporary art education.

Continue Reading

Adelaide of Italy

Holy Roman Empress and queen
Died
December 16th, 999 1025 years ago — None years old

Empress and queen, born in 931, played a crucial role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire. Married Otto the Great, which strengthened the connection between Italy and Germany. Contributed to the stabilization of the empire during her reign. After the death of her husband, she became involved in politics and acted as a regent for her son. Her leadership and influence in the court were significant, impacting the succession and territorial integrity of the empire.

Continue Reading

François Quesnay

French economist and physician
Born
June 4th, 1694 331 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1774 250 years ago — 80 years old

Quesnay contributed significantly to economic theory as a leader of the Physiocratic movement. This school of thought emphasized the importance of agriculture and the land as the source of wealth. His work, the 'Tableau Économique', illustrated the economic processes of society, influencing future economic thought. In addition to economics, Quesnay practiced medicine and served as a physician to King Louis XV, integrating health with economic principles. His ideas laid the groundwork for later economic theories.

Continue Reading

Betsie ten Boom

Holocaust victim and camp survivor
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1944 80 years ago — 59 years old

A member of the ten Boom family, played a significant role in hiding Jewish people during the Holocaust in the Netherlands. Assisted in the creation of a secret room in the family's watch shop in Haarlem, which sheltered those escaping Nazi persecution. Captured in 1944, transported to Ravensbrück concentration camp, where she remained until her death in 1944. Despite the harsh conditions, she exhibited remarkable strength and compassion, providing comfort to fellow prisoners.

Continue Reading