Ralph Branca
Professional Baseball Pitcher
Born
January 6th, 1926
99 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2016
8 years ago — 90 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A professional baseball pitcher achieved prominence in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Debuted in 1944 and became recognized for his powerful fastball and durability on the mound. Branca's career included participation in multiple All-Star Games and a significant role in the Dodgers' pennant-winning seasons. The game against the New York Giants in 1951 is particularly remembered for the 'Shot Heard 'Round the World,' where Branca surrendered a legendary home run. Retired with a solid career record and contributed to baseball as a coach and mentor post-retirement.
Pitched for the Brooklyn Dodgers
Participated in the 1951 National League pennant race
Other People Born on January 6th
Sandy Denny
A prominent English folk-rock singer-songwriter, contributed to the genre with a distinct vocal style and lyrical depth. Gained initial recognition as a founding member of Fairport Convention, where performances helped shape the British folk rock movement. Released several solo albums, with 'Leige and Lief' receiving critical acclaim for its innovative fusion of traditional folk and rock music. Collaborated with artists such as Richard Thompson and participated in numerous influential projects throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s before untimely passing.
Continue ReadingTed McDonald
Played cricket for Australia from 1911 to 1921. Competed in 15 Test matches as a fast bowler. Represented Victoria in domestic championships. Had notable performances against England during the Ashes series.
Continue ReadingClive Woodward
A former rugby player and coach, achieved recognition for coaching the England national rugby union team. Led the team to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, marking the first time England won the tournament. Played as a center for England in the late 1970s and early 1980s, earning 21 caps. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from playing, and introduced innovative training methods that transformed the team's performance. Served as the head coach from 1997 to 2004.
Continue ReadingLarisa Shepitko
A prominent Soviet film director, screenwriter, and actress, one of the leading figures in Soviet cinema during the 1970s. She directed several acclaimed films, including 'The Ascent', which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival in 1977. Shepitko's work often explored themes of morality, spirituality, and the human condition. Alongside her directorial pursuits, she also contributed as a screenwriter, bringing a unique voice to Soviet film. Tragically, her career was cut short by an untimely death in a car accident at the young age of 41.
Continue ReadingAlan Stivell
A prominent figure in the revival of Breton music, this artist integrated traditional Celtic harp playing with contemporary music styles. Contributions included creating a bridge between traditional Breton culture and modern music. Through performances and recordings, brought attention to lesser-known Celtic folk traditions, influencing a generation of musicians dedicated to preserving and innovating traditional music forms. Released acclaimed albums, significantly impacting the world music genre and highlighting the harp's role within it.
Continue ReadingEddie Redmayne
An English actor and model, recognized for roles in both film and theatre. Achievements include winning an Academy Award for Best Actor for performance in 'The Theory of Everything'. Gained critical acclaim for the portrayal of Stephen Hawking, showcasing the physicist's life and career. Other notable work includes playing Newt Scamander in the 'Fantastic Beasts' film series, a prequel to the Harry Potter franchise. The actor has also been involved in stage productions, including a successful performance in 'Red', which focuses on the abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 23rd
Beatriz Galindo
Born around 1465, this individual was a prominent figure in the field of education and literature during the Spanish Renaissance. As a Latinist, excelled in classical studies and became an influential educator. Provided instruction to members of the Spanish court, including Queen Isabella I, playing a significant role in advancing educational practices of the time. Contributed to the dissemination of humanist ideas through her teachings and writings. Actively participated in promoting the education of women, marking a significant step in the inclusion of women in academic discourse.
Continue ReadingJoe Esposito
An American author, this individual gained recognition primarily for writing about the life of Elvis Presley. Esposito served as a close friend and confidant to Presley, which provided unique insights into the singer's life and career. The work 'The Real Elvis' contains personal anecdotes and experiences that capture the essence of Presley beyond the public persona. Additionally, this author contributed to various projects including documentaries and interviews focused on Elvis.
Continue ReadingMargaret of York
Born in 1446, a prominent figure in the Wars of the Roses. Acted as a political ally by marrying Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, strengthening alliances between England and Burgundy. Played a significant role in the dynastic struggles during the 15th century. After the death of her husband in 1477, became heavily involved in the affairs of the Burgundian court. Her influence extended to diplomatic relations and the promotion of her family's interests in England.
Continue ReadingNick Clarke
A prominent figure in British journalism, contributed significantly to radio and television broadcast news. Clarke served as a presenter for renowned programs including ‘The Today Programme’ on BBC Radio 4, where incisive interviews and discussions highlighted current affairs. Also hosted 'Channel 4 News,' playing a key role in political and social discourse during the late 20th century. Worked as a foreign correspondent, covering pivotal events and providing in-depth analysis on issues of global importance. Recognized for the ability to engage audiences with thoughtful commentary and a commitment to journalistic integrity.
Continue ReadingJunior Walker
An influential saxophonist and bandleader, contributed to the Motown sound during the 1960s. Formed the band Junior Walker & The All Stars, achieving significant commercial success. The band released several hit singles, with 'Shotgun' reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965. The distinct sound combined elements of rhythm and blues, rock, and pop, showcasing Walker's powerful and energetic saxophone style.
Continue ReadingDouglass North
An American economist dedicated to the study of economic history and institutional economics. Served as a professor at Washington University in St. Louis and received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1993 for contributions to the understanding of economic institutions and their role in economic growth. Focused on how institutions influence economies and pioneered research in the new institutional economics.
Continue Reading