Ricky Whittle
British actor in The 100 and American Gods
An actor gained recognition for roles in television series The 100 and American Gods. Raised in a multicultural environment, began a career in modeling before transitioning to acting. Appeared in various British television shows, leading to a breakthrough role as Lincoln in The 100. Subsequently starred as Shadow Moon in the adaptation of Neil Gaiman's American Gods, receiving critical acclaim for the performance. Participated in the competitive reality show Strictly Come Dancing, showcasing versatility beyond acting.
Portrayed Lincoln in The 100
Played Shadow Moon in American Gods
Other People Born on December 31st
Willye 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 ReadingGeorge Meade
Union General during the Civil War
Born
December 31st, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1872 154 years ago — 57 years old
An American general and civil engineer, played a pivotal role in the American Civil War. Commanded the Army of the Potomac, achieving a significant victory at the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863. This battle marked a turning point in the war, halting the Confederate invasion of the North. After the war, held various leadership positions, including overseeing the construction of several military fortifications and land surveys. Contributed to the post-war rebuilding efforts and served in the U.S. Army until retirement.
Continue ReadingBeatrice of Portugal
Duchess of Savoy, Queen consort of France
Born
December 31st, 1504 521 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1538 488 years ago — 33 years old
Born in 1498, Beatrice of Portugal became the Duchess of Savoy through her marriage to Charles III. This union strengthened political ties between Portugal and Savoy during the early 16th century. Beatrice had a significant role in the politics of her time, particularly through her lineage and connections. She also served as the Queen consort of France by marriage to Louis XII, solidifying alliances between Portugal and France. Beatrice's life was marked by her marriage arrangements that had political implications in European nobility.
Continue ReadingCharles Edward Stuart
Scottish claimant to the English throne
Born
December 31st, 1720 305 years ago
Died
1788 238 years ago — 68 years old
Claimed the English throne during the Jacobite rising of 1745. Led the rebellion aiming to restore the Stuart dynasty. Captured the city of Edinburgh and achieved a notable victory at the Battle of Prestonpans. Ultimately defeated at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, leading to the decline of Jacobite hopes. Spent subsequent years in exile and became a symbol of Scottish nationalism.
Continue ReadingJohann Spurzheim
Phrenologist, author of 'The Physiognomy'
Born
December 31st, 1776 249 years ago
Died
1832 194 years ago — 56 years old
A physician and phrenologist contributed significantly to the popularization of phrenology in the early 19th century. Emigrated to the United States, where he promoted the study of human behavior through the examination of the skull's shape. Published several works, with 'The Physiognomy' being one of the most notable. Engaged in numerous lectures and writings that aimed to connect physical structure to character traits.
Continue ReadingJacques Cartier
French explorer for New France and Canada
Born
December 31st, 1491 534 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1557 469 years ago — 65 years old
A French navigator and explorer played a crucial role in the early exploration of Canada. In 1534, he made his first voyage across the Atlantic and claimed the land in the name of France. He explored the Gulf of St. Lawrence and established contact with Indigenous peoples, notably the St. Lawrence Iroquoian tribes. Cartier's expeditions laid the groundwork for future French colonization in North America. His work contributed significantly to mapping the region, including the St. Lawrence River and the vicinity of present-day Quebec.
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