Rex Allen
Actor and singer-songwriter in Western films
An American actor and singer-songwriter emerged in the 1940s, focusing on Western films and music. Liked for portraying the roles of cowboys and ranchers, achieved significant popularity during the Golden Age of Westerns. Voiced the character of the title in the animated film 'The Brave Little Toaster' and provided vocals for several movie soundtracks. Recorded numerous country and Western songs, contributing to the genre's popularity. Established a successful career in music and film spanning several decades.
Starred in 'Canyon Passage'
Narrated 'The Brave Little Toaster'
Other People Born on December 31st
Henry Carter Adams
Economist and academic writer
Born
December 31st, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1921 105 years ago — 70 years old
An American economist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of public finance and economic theory. Served as a professor at the University of Michigan, influencing both students and the discipline of economics. Authored several works that analyzed government expenditures and taxation. Advocated for the importance of public policy in economic analysis and played a role in the establishment of a more empirical foundation for economics education.
Continue ReadingWillye White
American long jumper and runner
Born
December 31st, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2007 19 years ago — 67 years old
Competed in the Olympics in both track and field events, achieving notable success as a long jumper. Participated in five different Olympic Games from 1956 to 1972, securing a silver medal in long jump in 1964. Raced in various national and international competitions, earning recognition for athletic prowess and skill. Contributed to the development of future generations of athletes through coaching.
Continue ReadingPrincess Victoria Adelaide of Schleswig-Holstein
Princess and philanthropist in Germany
Born
December 31st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1970 56 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Schleswig-Holstein, this princess became known for her dedication to social causes and charitable works. Active in various philanthropic efforts, she supported initiatives focused on the welfare of children and the elderly. Additionally, she played a significant role in promoting cultural heritage in her region. The princess was involved in several organizations that aimed at improving living conditions for the underprivileged and was influential in the development of community outreach programs.
Continue ReadingAtje Keulen-Deelstra
Dutch speed skater and world champion
Born
December 31st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2013 12 years ago — 74 years old
A speed skater competed internationally for the Netherlands. Achievements include multiple world championships and setting several speed records. Notable for contributions to the sport and participation in the 1960 Winter Olympics. Continued to influence the sport after retiring from competitive skating.
Continue ReadingJoseph S. Cullinan
Businessman, co-founder of Texaco
Born
December 31st, 1860 165 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1937 88 years ago — 76 years old
A businessman co-founded Texaco, which became a significant player in the oil industry. Established in 1902, Texaco grew rapidly under his guidance, contributing to the development of oil refining and distribution in the United States. Cullinan also played a role in the establishment of several other companies during the early 20th century, further shaping the petroleum landscape. His efforts laid important groundwork for modern energy corporations.
Continue ReadingJaime Escalante
Educator and mathematics teacher
Born
December 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 79 years old
An educator who taught mathematics at Garfield High School in East Los Angeles. Introduced innovative teaching methods that improved student engagement and understanding. Developed a calculus program that allowed students to excel in advanced mathematics. The story of his tenure was depicted in the film 'Stand and Deliver'.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Eddie Acuff
American actor in 'Davy Crockett'
Born
June 3rd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 53 years old
Acuff was an American actor active in film and television during the mid-20th century. He appeared in numerous westerns and comedies, often taking on character roles. Notably, Acuff featured in Disney's miniseries 'Davy Crockett' as well as other films such as 'The Caddy' and 'Davy Crockett: King of the Wild Frontier'. His works were characterized by a blend of humor and adventure, contributing to the popular culture of the time.
Continue ReadingWilliam Thomson
Physicist and engineer, contributed to thermodynamics
Born
June 26th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1907 118 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1824, this physicist and engineer significantly advanced the field of thermodynamics and contributed to the development of the absolute temperature scale, known as the Kelvin scale. He held the title of 1st Baron Kelvin. This figure's work encompassed electromagnetism and the formulation of the laws of thermodynamics. He served as a professor at the University of Glasgow and was involved in several engineering projects, including the laying of the Atlantic telegraph cable.
Continue ReadingEva Ekvall
Venezuelan journalist and author
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 28 years old
Served as a journalist and authored literary works. Won the title of Miss Venezuela in 2000. Elected to represent Venezuela at the Miss Universe pageant. Engaged in social issues, particularly raising awareness about breast cancer after her diagnosis. Ekvall's work focused on media and communication within the Venezuelan context.
Continue ReadingWilliam Shiels
Politician and 16th Premier of Victoria
Born
December 3rd, 1848 177 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1904 121 years ago — 56 years old
Born in Ireland and emigrated to Australia, Shiels became a prominent politician in Victoria. He served as the 16th Premier of Victoria from 1892 to 1893. His time in office was marked by efforts to improve social services and infrastructure in the region. Throughout a long political career, Shiels held various positions in the Victorian government, contributing to legislative developments in the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Garrett Anderson
Pioneering English physician and politician
Born
June 9th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1917 108 years ago — 81 years old
First woman to qualify as a physician in England. Established the New Hospital for Women in London, which provided medical care accessible to women and children. Actively participated in the women's suffrage movement and worked towards the improvement of women's rights in medicine and society. Contributed significantly to the establishment of the London School of Medicine for Women.
Continue ReadingFrancis Beaufort
Irish hydrographer and Royal Navy officer
Born
May 27th, 1774 251 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1857 168 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to maritime navigation and meteorology. Developed the Beaufort Scale, which classifies wind strength based on observed sea conditions. Served in the Royal Navy and undertook various surveys, enhancing understanding of oceanography. His work laid the foundation for modern meteorological practices and navigational standards.
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