Rachel Griffiths
Australian actress, starred in Six Feet Under
An Australian actress gained recognition for roles in television and film. Starred in the acclaimed HBO series Six Feet Under as Brenda Chenowith, which earned multiple awards, including a Primetime Emmy nomination. Featured in the film Hacksaw Ridge, illustrating a compelling story of World War II. Worked in various independent films, demonstrating versatility across genres.
Starred in Six Feet Under as Brenda Chenowith
Appeared in Hacksaw Ridge
Other People Born on December 18th
Matt McGrath
Irish-American hammer thrower champion
Born
December 18th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 66 years old
Competed in the hammer throw event, primarily during the early 20th century. Achieved significant success in various athletic competitions, including the 1908 and 1912 Olympics. Represented the United States in international events, showcasing remarkable skill and technique in the hammer throw discipline. Set multiple records during career, solidifying a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingBill Holland
Race Car Driver - 1949 Indianapolis 500 Champion
Born
December 18th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1984 42 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent race car driver competed in the Indianapolis 500 during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Secured victory in the 1949 Indianapolis 500, showcasing skill and determination on the track. Additionally participated in the AAA Championship Car series, achieving multiple top finishes throughout racing career. Retired from competitive racing after the 1955 season, leaving a legacy in American motorsport history.
Continue ReadingRobert Moses
Urban Planner and Park Designer
Born
December 18th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1981 45 years ago — 93 years old
Significant contributions to urban development occurred through the planning and construction of major infrastructure in New York City. Extended highway systems and park facilities were created, influencing the layout and accessibility of urban spaces. Played a crucial role in the development of Jones Beach State Park and the Triborough Bridge. His approach often involved the use of political power and public funding to achieve large-scale projects that transformed urban landscapes.
Continue ReadingFletcher Henderson
American jazz bandleader and composer
Born
December 18th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1952 73 years ago — 55 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of big band jazz in the 1920s and 1930s. Pioneered the use of arrangements in jazz music, helping to transform the genre from small ensembles to larger orchestral sounds. Led the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra, which featured prominent musicians of the era, including Louis Armstrong and Coleman Hawkins. Collaborated with Bessie Smith, providing arrangements for her recordings. Played a crucial role in popularizing swing music, bridging the gap between jazz and dance music.
Continue ReadingPaul Siple
Geographer and Antarctic explorer
Born
December 18th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1968 57 years ago — 59 years old
A geographer and explorer, contributions focused on polar research. Participated in multiple expeditions to Antarctica, including the first American expedition in 1933-1934. Worked on the development of the wind chill index, significant for understanding cold weather hazards. Helped establish the United States Antarctic Program and served as a leader in this initiative, promoting scientific research in polar regions.
Continue ReadingEdward MacDowell
American pianist and composer
Born
December 18th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
1908 118 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent American pianist and composer, this individual contributed significantly to the development of American classical music. Early training included studies in Europe, where exposure to various musical styles influenced compositional techniques. Established a reputation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with compositions that merged European traditions with American themes. Significant works include the 'Woodland Sketches' and the 'Concerto No. 2 in D minor.' This person's efforts extended beyond performance and composition by advocating for the importance of music education and the establishment of cultural institutions in the United States.
Continue Reading