Ramsey Clark
American lawyer and political activist
A prominent American lawyer and political activist, served as the Attorney General from 1967 to 1969 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Advocated for civil rights and social justice throughout a lengthy career in law. Participated in various legal defense efforts, including representing anti-war activists and challenging the U.S. government's policies on multiple fronts. Worked on international human rights issues and was involved in high-profile cases, including those related to former Yugoslavia. Founded the International Action Center in 1992 to mobilize against U.S. foreign policy and promote human rights.
Served as U.S. Attorney General from 1967 to 1969
Founded the International Action Center
Other People Born on December 18th
Charles Griffin
American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 200 years ago
Died
1876 150 years ago — 51 years old
Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.
Continue ReadingJohann Salomo Semler
German historian and biblical critic
Born
December 18th, 1725 300 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1791 234 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed to biblical criticism and historical methodology. Played a key role in the development of textual criticism of the Bible. Established the importance of historical context in understanding religious texts through his scholarly works. Helped lay the foundation for later developments in liberal theology and critical scholarship.
Continue ReadingBobby Keys
Saxophone player for iconic rock bands
Born
December 18th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 70 years old
Saxophone player contributed to the sound of several major rock bands throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Keys played with The Rolling Stones on multiple albums and tours, adding his signature brass sound to hits like 'Brown Sugar' and 'Sweet Virginia.' He also collaborated with artists such as Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, showcasing versatility across various musical genres. His work laid the foundation for many rock arrangements that incorporated the saxophone as a prominent element.
Continue ReadingEmil Starkenstein
Czech pharmacologist, co-founded clinical pharmacology
Born
December 18th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1942 83 years ago — 57 years old
A pharmacologist co-founded the discipline of clinical pharmacology, significantly contributing to the understanding of drug effects on the human body. Starkenstein's work laid the groundwork for future research in medical therapies and the evaluation of drug efficacy and safety. Throughout the career, collaboration with other prominent scientists drove advancements in pharmacological studies, shaping the way drugs are tested and used in clinical settings.
Continue ReadingMalcolm Kirk
Rugby player and wrestler
Born
December 18th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1987 38 years ago — 50 years old
Born in England in 1936, an athlete achieved recognition in both rugby and wrestling. Played for the English national rugby team, contributing significantly to the sport during the 1960s. Transitioned to professional wrestling after retiring from rugby, competing in various promotions. Captured the attention of wrestling fans with a unique style that integrated techniques from rugby.
Continue ReadingLizmark
Mexican professional wrestler
Born
December 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old
Made significant contributions to the world of professional wrestling, particularly in the lucha libre style. Gained fame for high-flying maneuvers and technical skills. Competed in various wrestling promotions, including AAA and CMLL, and participated in notable rivalries during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 9th
Tsien Tsuen-hsuin
Chinese-American academic scholar
Born
1909 117 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 106 years old
An academic scholar focused on the study of Chinese literature and cultural history. Contributed significantly to the understanding of Chinese poetry, particularly during the Tang dynasty. Held teaching positions at various institutions and published numerous articles and books. Actively engaged in cross-cultural scholarship and helped bridge understanding between Chinese and Western literary traditions.
Continue ReadingPaul Almond
Director of 'The Killing Floor'
Born
April 26th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
Canadian-American director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to film and television. Directed the groundbreaking television miniseries 'The Killing Floor' and worked on various projects throughout his career. Almond's career spanned several decades during which he produced and directed numerous films and television programs. He was instrumental in the creation of the classic series 'Pioneer Quest', which explored historical Canadian life. Additionally, he was involved in the production of adaptations of classic literature, bringing stories to life on screen.
Continue ReadingMordechai Mishani
Israeli lawyer and politician
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent lawyer and politician in Israel, significant contributions were made to the legal and political landscape of the country. Played a key role in various legislative processes and was involved in shaping policies within the government. Elected to the Knesset, represented the Israeli Government in different capacities, impacting national discourse and law. Engaged in legal advocacy and worked on issues relevant to the public and civil liberties.
Continue ReadingA. N. R. Robinson
Trinbagonian politician and president
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Served as the third President of Trinidad and Tobago from 1997 to 2003. Contributed to the establishment of the International Criminal Court. Played a crucial role in the reconstruction of the country's political landscape in the post-independence era, promoting democracy and governance. Led efforts in promoting regional integration among Caribbean nations during tenure.
Continue ReadingWill Smith
American baseball player
Born
March 28th, 1995 30 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2016 9 years ago — 21 years old
A professional baseball player debuted in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved significant success as a pitcher, highlighted by multiple seasons with a strong win-loss record. Represented the United States in international competitions and contributed to his team's efforts in securing victories in crucial games.
Continue ReadingZoltán Varga
Hungarian football player and manager
Born
1945 81 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 65 years old
Varga played as a forward in professional football and transitioned into management after his playing career. He was associated with several clubs in Hungary and had a notable playing career, particularly with Váci Izzó. Varga later took on managerial roles, contributing to the development of football in Hungary. His career included stints in youth coaching and competitions, focusing on nurturing the next generation of players.
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