Richard Pryor
Comedian and actor in Stand-Up Comedy
A comedian, actor, producer, and screenwriter, this individual revolutionized stand-up comedy with a raw and honest style. Early in life, experiences in a racially charged environment inspired material that resonated with a wide audience. The individual appeared in several films, including 'Silver Streak', 'Stir Crazy', and 'Richard Pryor: Live in Concert', showcasing humor while addressing social issues. Additionally, work in television included the show 'The Richard Pryor Show'. During a career spanning several decades, the individual received numerous accolades for contributions to comedy and film industries.
Revolutionized stand-up comedy
Starred in 'Silver Streak'
Starred in 'Stir Crazy'
Produced 'The Richard Pryor Show'
Other People Born on December 1st
Sarah Fitzgerald
Australian squash champion
Born
December 1st, 1968 57 years ago
A squash player achieved significant success during her professional career. Won the World Squash Championship multiple times, securing titles in 1990 and 1993. Dominated the sport, attaining the World No. 1 ranking for several years. Competed at an international level, representing Australia in various championships and winning numerous other titles throughout her career. Retired from professional play but remains influential in the sport.
Continue ReadingWalter Alston
Baseball manager, led Dodgers to championships
Born
December 1st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1984 41 years ago — 72 years old
Managed the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers from 1954 to 1976, leading the team to four World Series championships. Guided the Dodgers through the transition from Brooklyn to Los Angeles. Known for a calm demeanor and strategic approach to managing players. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983.
Continue ReadingMother Antonia
Nun and activist for prison reform
Born
December 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1926, a nun and activist focused on prison reform in Mexico. Founded the contemplative order of the Servants of the 11th Hour. Dedicated efforts to advocate for humane treatment of prisoners, working predominantly at La Mesa prison in Tijuana. Engaged in numerous initiatives to support the rights and rehabilitation of inmates, earning respect within both religious and secular communities.
Continue ReadingAlexandra of Denmark
Queen of the United Kingdom
Born
December 1st, 1844 181 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1925 100 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Denmark, became Queen Consort of the United Kingdom through marriage to King Edward VII. Served as a beloved figure during her husband’s reign, from 1901 to 1910. Actively involved in charitable work, particularly with soldiers during World War I. Played a significant role in royal family duties and public events, fostering public image amidst changing societal norms.
Continue ReadingMartin Rodbell
Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 1st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1998 27 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent biochemist and endocrinologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of cell signaling. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1994 for discoveries related to G-proteins, which play a critical role in transmitting signals within cells. Conducted research at the National Institutes of Health, where groundbreaking work on the role of G-proteins in hormone signaling established a foundation for further studies in cellular biology and the pharmacological field.
Continue ReadingJimmy Lyons
American saxophonist with notable works
Born
December 1st, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1986 39 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent figure in the free jazz movement, contributed significantly to the genre through innovative saxophone performances. Collaborated with influential musicians, most notably as a member of the Cecil Taylor Unit from the 1960s until the end of the 1970s. Lyons' style blended improvisation with avant-garde elements, shaping the sound of contemporary jazz. Released several albums that showcased his artistic vision and technical prowess, leaving a lasting mark on jazz music.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 10th
Otis Redding
Soul singer-songwriter with classic hits
Born
September 9th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1967 58 years ago — 26 years old
A prominent figure in the soul music genre, contributions included powerful vocal performances and emotive songwriting. Redding's career began in the early 1960s, gaining attention with songs that featured a blend of gospel influences and rhythm and blues. The release of the iconic track 'Try a Little Tenderness' in 1966 solidified his position in the music scene. Other major hits such as '(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay' showcased his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Tragically, a plane crash in 1967 cut his life short, yet his influence on subsequent artists and the genre remains significant.
Continue ReadingLuigi Pirandello
Italian dramatist and Nobel laureate
Born
June 28th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1936 89 years ago — 69 years old
Born in Italy in 1867, a noted writer produced influential works across drama, novels, and poetry. Significant contributions to modern literature included the use of meta-theatrical techniques and existential themes. Achieved the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1934 for his bold exploration of human psychology and perception.
Continue ReadingAlex Wilson
Canadian sprinter and Olympic coach
Born
December 1st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1994 31 years ago — 89 years old
Born in December 1905, a Canadian sprinter excelled in track events during the 1920s and 1930s. Competed for Canada in the 1928 and 1932 Summer Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the 4x100 meter relay in 1932. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, guiding future generations of sprinters. Contributed to the development of athletic programs in Canada.
Continue ReadingAbdullah Yusuf Ali
Scholar and translator of the Quran
Born
April 14th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1953 72 years ago — 81 years old
Born in India, played a significant role in translating the Quran into English. Studied at Aligarh Muslim University and completed a degree in Arabic and Persian. Emigrated to England, where he engaged in scholarly work and Islamic studies. Published a well-regarded English translation of the Quran, which included extensive commentary. The translation became one of the most popular English versions, widely used in Islamic educational institutions.
Continue ReadingMax Clifford
English publicist known for celebrity PR
Born
April 6th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent publicist and journalist, gained recognition in the 1970s. Worked with various high-profile clients in the entertainment industry, providing public relations services. Founded Max Clifford Associates, a public relations agency that represented several celebrities and figures from various spheres. Played a significant role in shaping media narratives and celebrity publicity, frequently appearing in the media to discuss PR strategies and the dynamics of fame. Engaged in high-profile media stories, often at the center of celebrity scandals and controversies. Authored two books on public relations and the media.
Continue ReadingAlfred Nobel
Chemist and engineer, founded Nobel Prize
Born
1833 192 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1896 129 years ago — 63 years old
A Swedish chemist and engineer developed dynamite, a safer alternative to nitroglycerin for construction and demolition. Nobel's invention significantly advanced engineering and mining industries. Following personal reflections on the consequences of his inventions, he established the Nobel Prizes in his will. This annual series of awards recognizes excellence in various fields including physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace efforts, shaping the landscape of global accolades. The prizes have been awarded since 1901 and continue to honor significant contributions to humanity.
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