Richard Montgomery
Irish-American Revolutionary War general
Born in 1738, played a pivotal role in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Commanded the Continental Army forces during the invasion of Canada in 1775. Led troops in the Siege of Montreal and was instrumental in the early military efforts against British forces. Montgomery died during the Battle of Quebec in December 1775, where he was fatally wounded, becoming a martyr for the American cause. His contributions to military strategies and leadership were recognized posthumously.
Commanded Continental Army during Canadian campaign
Died at the Battle of Quebec
Other People Born on December 2nd
Ilia Malinin
Competitive figure skater and champion
Born
December 2nd, 2004 21 years ago
Born in 2004, this American athlete achieved prominence in figure skating through remarkable performances in national and international competitions. In 2022, secured a gold medal at the World Junior Figure Skating Championships. Demonstrated technical proficiency and artistic expression, making a significant mark in the figure skating community at a young age.
Continue ReadingSim Bhullar
Basketball player; first player of Indian descent in NBA
Born
December 2nd, 1992 33 years ago
Born in Canada, a professional basketball player made history as the first player of Indian descent to play in the NBA. Played college basketball for New Mexico State University, earning recognition for performance on the court. Signed with the Sacramento Kings in 2014, marking a significant feat for representation in sports. In addition to the NBA, played in various international leagues, further showcasing skills and contributing to teams globally.
Continue ReadingWilhelm Egon von Fürstenberg
German cardinal and church leader
Born
December 2nd, 1629 396 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1704 321 years ago — 74 years old
A cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church, served as the Bishop of Strasbourg. Contributed to ecclesiastical matters during a period of significant church reform. Held important positions within the church hierarchy, advocating for the Catholic faith and influencing the direction of his diocese. Engaged in theological debates and managed relationships between the church and state authorities in Germany.
Continue ReadingThomas Pöck
Austrian ice hockey player and Olympian
Born
December 2nd, 1981 44 years ago
An ice hockey player competed for Austria in international tournaments. Played in the NHL for the New York Islanders and the Boston Bruins. Also competed in the IIHF World Championships and the Winter Olympics. His career in professional ice hockey spanned several leagues, including the Austrian league, where notable contributions were made.
Continue ReadingZach Cunningham
American football linebacker, Houston Texans
Born
December 2nd, 1994 31 years ago
A professional American football linebacker, contributions to the game were notable during tenure with the Houston Texans. Played college football at Vanderbilt University, earning recognition as a standout defensive player. Selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. Achieved significant defensive stats and consistently performed at a high level. Signed with the Tennessee Titans in 2021, continuing to showcase skills and experience in the NFL.
Continue ReadingElias Lindholm
Ice hockey player and Olympic athlete
Born
December 2nd, 1994 31 years ago
Born in Sweden, a professional ice hockey player who plays as a forward. Played in the NHL for the Calgary Flames and has participated in international competitions representing Sweden. Achieved success in various championships, contributing to team efforts in both club and national settings.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Woody Strode
American football player and actor
Born
July 25th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1994 30 years ago — 80 years old
Played in the National Football League as a linebacker and later transitioned to acting. Starred in films such as "Spartacus" and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance". Achieved recognition for both athletic and cinematic contributions. Strode's career in football began in the early 1940s, playing for teams including the Los Angeles Rams and the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League. His film career spanned several decades, often portraying strong supporting characters that reflected his athletic background.
Continue ReadingMichael Goldberg
American painter and educator
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2007 17 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in the American art scene, this individual contributed significantly to the development of the New York School of painting. Active during the mid to late 20th century, a strong advocate for the relationship between art and education was established through teaching positions at various institutions. The works often featured abstract expressionism, characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic compositions. Exhibited at several notable galleries and museums, this artist became an influential voice in contemporary art discussions.
Continue ReadingAlan Cranston
American politician and journalist
Born
June 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2000 24 years ago — 86 years old
Elected to the U.S. Senate representing California from 1969 to 1993. Played a role in significant legislation, including environmental and social justice issues. Authored several books on politics and social issues. Served as the Democratic National Committee Chairman and was active in various political organizations, promoting citizen participation in government.
Continue ReadingYa'akov Hodorov
Israeli footballer with Hapoel Tel Aviv
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2006 18 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent Israeli footballer, played primarily as a midfielder. Spent a significant part of his career at Hapoel Tel Aviv and contributed to the club's successes in the Israeli Premier League. Additionally, represented the Israel national team, showcasing talent in multiple international matches. Hodorov's career spanned several years, during which he became a prominent figure in Israeli football.
Continue ReadingTarak Mekki
Tunisian businessman and politician
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2012 12 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent businessman and politician in Tunisia, contributed to the political landscape following the Arab Spring. Served as a member of the Tunisian Constituent Assembly, playing a role in drafting the new constitution. Focused on economic reforms and business development in post-revolution Tunisia, fostering a new environment for investments and entrepreneurship.
Continue ReadingCharles Koechlin
French composer and educator
Born
November 27th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1950 74 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1867, this composer contributed significantly to the early 20th-century music scene. Understanding modernist tendencies, he explored various styles, integrating elements of impressionism into his works. As an educator, he played a pivotal role in shaping future generations of musicians and composers. His prolific output includes orchestral, chamber, choral, and vocal music, marking him as a significant figure of the time. The work exhibited an innovative approach to harmony and texture, gaining attention from contemporaries and later musicians.
Continue Reading