Rakeem Christmas
American basketball player, NBA draft pick
A professional basketball player, participated in the NCAA tournament with Syracuse University. Entered the NBA draft in 2015 and was selected 36th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Played for teams such as the Indiana Pacers, as well as various international basketball clubs. Additionally, contributed to the development of basketball in multiple capacities beyond playing.
Selected 36th overall in the 2015 NBA Draft
Played for the Indiana Pacers
Other People Born on December 1st
Stansfield Turner
American Admiral, former CIA Director
Born
December 1st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 95 years old
Served in the United States Navy, reaching the rank of Admiral. Led the Central Intelligence Agency from 1977 to 1981 during the Carter administration. Played a pivotal role in advocating for intelligence reform and modernization. Following tenure at the CIA, held academic positions, including leadership roles at universities, focusing on international relations and security studies.
Continue ReadingSola Sierra
Human Rights Activist in Chile
Born
December 1st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1999 26 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Chile in 1935, significant contributions to human rights advocacy occurred during a time of political repression in the country. Focused on the plight of victims of state terrorism, played a crucial role in raising awareness of human rights abuses during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. Actively campaigned for justice for victims' families and worked to document human rights violations. Collaborated with various organizations, striving to hold perpetrators accountable and to promote human rights education.
Continue ReadingZhu De
Chinese general and politician
Born
December 1st, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1976 49 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1886, a prominent figure in the Chinese Communist Party and a leading general during the Chinese Civil War. Played a crucial role in the Long March and served as a key military leader in various conflicts. Held significant positions in the People's Liberation Army and the government, including 1st Vice Chairman of the People's Republic of China. Contributed to the establishment of the state after the Communist victory in 1949, serving in important roles until his death.
Continue ReadingPhilip Yorke
1st Earl of Hardwicke, Lord Chancellor
Born
December 1st, 1690 335 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1764 261 years ago — 73 years old
Served as Lord Chancellor of the United Kingdom and played a crucial role in the legal reform of the British judiciary. Held the title of 1st Earl of Hardwicke and was instrumental in various legal cases that shaped the development of English law. Established a reputation as a significant legal mind of the 18th century, influencing both policy and practice in the legal community. Engaged in politics and maintained a prominent position within the Whig party throughout his career.
Continue ReadingMary Martin
American actress and singer in musicals
Born
December 1st, 1913 112 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1990 35 years ago — 76 years old
An acclaimed actress and singer, this individual achieved significant recognition in the realms of theater and television. Starred on Broadway in iconic roles, particularly in the original productions of 'South Pacific' and 'Peter Pan'. Received numerous awards, including multiple Tony Awards for her performances. Appeared in television adaptations of her stage work, solidifying a legacy in both theater and early television.
Continue ReadingBilly Paul
Soul singer of 'Me and Mrs. Jones'
Born
December 1st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1934, one of the noted soul singers, achieved fame with the hit single 'Me and Mrs. Jones' in 1972, which reached number one on the Billboard chart. His career began in the 1950s, performing with various artists and recording with notable labels. Active throughout the 60s and 70s, Paul's work featured elements of jazz and R&B, contributing to the soul genre's evolution. He produced several albums during his career, with many songs reflecting social themes and personal narratives. Continued to perform and record into the later years of life, leaving a lasting influence on the soul music scene.
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