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
Kwon Eun-bin
Born in 2000, a singer and actress gained recognition through participation in the reality survival show Produce 101, where secured a spot in the final lineup to form the girl group I.O.I. The group released the hit song "Downpour" and conducted various promotional activities before disbanding. Continued career in the entertainment industry as an actress, starring in television dramas such as 'Bad Witch' and 'The Witch's Diner'. Engaged in solo music activities, contributing to the South Korean pop scene.
Continue ReadingMaria of Yugoslavia
Born into the royal family of Greece, served as Queen consort of Yugoslavia from 1922 until the monarchy's abolition in 1945. Engaged in charitable work and supported various cultural initiatives during her reign. After World War II, lived in exile, maintaining ties with her family and the Yugoslav diaspora.
Continue ReadingJames Farrior
A former professional American football linebacker, achieved success in the National Football League (NFL). Played college football at the University of Virginia before entering the NFL. Selected by the New York Jets in the first round of the 1997 NFL Draft. Later signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where contributed to two Super Bowl victories. After retirement, transitioned to a coaching role and remained involved in football.
Continue ReadingLouis Freeh
Served as the 10th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 1993 to 2001. Oversaw significant investigations, including the Olympic Park bombing in Atlanta in 1996. Led the FBI during a critical period marked by increased focus on terrorism following the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. After leaving the FBI, engaged in private sector legal work and became a prominent speaker on law enforcement and security issues.
Continue ReadingJohan Davidsson
Played ice hockey as a professional forward in the Swedish Hockey League and internationally. Spent a significant part of the career with HV71, contributing to multiple championship titles. Served as captain of the Swedish national team, competing in several World Championships and the Olympics.
Continue ReadingIon Minulescu
A prominent figure in Romanian literature, contributions spanned poetry, drama, and criticism. Played a significant role in the modernist movement during the early 20th century. Published many collections of poems, including 'Flori de mușcată' and 'Versuri'. Worked as a literary critic, influencing the landscape of Romanian literary criticism. His works often explored themes of love, beauty, and existential angst, showcasing his distinctive style and innovative use of language.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 23rd
Dorothy Cheney
Significant contributions to women's tennis occurred during the mid-20th century through competitive play on the national and international stages. Achievements included participation in numerous championships, showcasing skills in singles and doubles events. Success in major tournaments highlighted abilities and elevated the profile of women's tennis. The career featured appearances in prestigious contests such as the U.S. Open. A legacy of determination and sportsmanship characterized professional endeavors.
Continue ReadingJohn Burdon-Sanderson
Contributed to the field of physiology, focusing on the study of the heart and circulation. Served as a professor at various institutions, emphasizing the integration of experimental methods into the understanding of physiological processes. Conducted extensive research on the electrical activity of the heart, laying groundwork for future studies in cardiology. Authored several influential texts and articles that shaped physiological education. Held prominent positions in medical societies, advancing the discipline through leadership and collaboration.
Continue ReadingPete Franklin
A prominent sports radio host, contributed significantly to sports talk radio during the late 20th century. Hosted various programs, showcasing a mix of sports commentary and entertainment. Gained recognition through a long tenure at radio stations such as KNBR in San Francisco, engaging listeners with commentary on local and national sports. Also hosted a popular television show that brought insights into the world of sports and entertainment. Advocated for various sports causes throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAndré Malraux
Born in 1901, a historian, theorist, and author contributed significantly to the literary and political landscape of France. Published the novel 'Man's Fate' in 1933, which explored the themes of revolution, heroism, and existentialism. Wrote several non-fiction works on art history and philosophy, including 'The Voids of the Time' and 'The Creative Experience'. Held the position of France’s Minister of Cultural Affairs from 1959 to 1969, promoting the arts and cultural heritage. Demonstrated a keen interest in the relationship between art and society throughout his works.
Continue ReadingChuck Diering
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1945 to 1953. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals and also spent time with the New York Giants and Chicago Cubs. Achieved a batting average of .263 over his career and was part of the Cardinals team that won the National League pennant in 1946. Additionally, contributed to the Cardinals' victory in the World Series in 1946.
Continue ReadingConstantine Mavrocordatos
Born in 1711, influenced the political landscape in the Ottoman Empire during the 18th century. Served as a high-ranking official, including positions such as Grand Dragoman and Voivode of Wallachia and Moldavia. Played a vital role in the diplomatic relations between the Ottoman Empire and European states. His leadership during turbulent times contributed to the stability of the regions he governed.
Continue Reading