Roberto Clemente
Baseball player and humanitarian

Born
August 18th, 1934
90 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1972
52 years ago — 38 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent baseball player in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Pittsburgh Pirates, achieved notable success during his career. Played 18 seasons and was a 15-time All-Star. Won four batting titles and earned two World Series championships in 1960 and 1971. Active in humanitarian efforts, especially focused on assisting those in need in Latin America. Tragically lost in a plane crash while delivering aid to Nicaragua in 1972.
2 World Series championships with Pittsburgh Pirates
15-time All-Star selection
Achieved 3,000 hits in MLB
Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously
Other People Born on August 18th
Louie Gohmert
A lawyer and politician, served as a U.S. Representative for Texas's 1st congressional district from 2005 to 2021. Gohmert was a member of the Republican Party and was known for his conservative stance on numerous issues. During tenure in Congress, participated in several high-profile committee assignments, including the House Judiciary Committee. Advocated for various policies related to immigration, national security, and government spending.
Continue ReadingMadeleine Stowe
Born in 1958, a prominent actress recognized for roles in film and television. Gained significant acclaim for the television series 'Revenge', where portrayal of Emily Thorne earned attention. Also appeared in various films, including 'The Last of the Mohicans' and '12 Monkeys'. Acted in the acclaimed series 'Chicago Hope', contributing to a successful television career. Stowe's work encompasses a range of genres, making her a familiar face in both movies and television series.
Continue ReadingRoman Polanski
Born in France and raised in Poland, a prominent director, producer, and screenwriter became influential in the film industry. After surviving the Holocaust, major works include 'Repulsion', 'Chinatown', and 'The Pianist', a film that garnered several awards including the Academy Award for Best Director. His career spanned several decades, producing films that often explored themes of paranoia and identity.
Continue ReadingHenry Hammond
Served as a prominent English cleric and theologian during the 17th century. Gained recognition for contributions to religious thought and ecclesiastical governance. Advocated for a middle path in religious matters, seeking to reconcile differing views within Protestantism. Wrote extensively on theology, pastoral care, and biblical commentary, influencing both contemporary and subsequent debates in the Church of England. His works contributed to the establishment of a higher ecclesiastical authority and a focus on the importance of reason in faith.
Continue ReadingAshikaga Takauji
Established the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan, leading to a period known as the Muromachi period. Initially served the Kamakura shogunate before opposing it. His military strategies and political acumen played a pivotal role in the downfall of the Kamakura shogunate. Took control of Kyoto, marking the beginning of a new era in Japanese governance. Implemented policies that shaped the political landscape during his reign.
Continue ReadingTom Prichard
This individual, born in 1959, built a career in professional wrestling. Initially worked in various territories before achieving success in World Wrestling Federation as one-half of the tag team The Heavenly Bodies. Transitioned into a trainer role, influencing the next generation of wrestlers. Notable contributions included developing training programs and mentoring numerous wrestlers who later found prominence in the industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Gustave Courbet
A prominent figure in the Realist movement, this painter emphasized the depiction of everyday life and social issues. Artworks often showcased rural scenes and the working class. 'The Stone Breakers' and 'A Burial at Ornans' presented unidealized portrayals of labor and ordinary people. His bold approach challenged the conventional techniques and subjects of the time, earning a reputation for both innovation and controversy. Courbet also organized the Pavilion of Realism in 1855, presenting his works independently from the Salon. His principles promoted realism as an authentic artistic expression.
Continue ReadingCahal Daly
An influential theologian and leader within the Catholic Church, held the position of Archbishop of Armagh from 1982 to 1996. Contributed significantly to various ecclesiastical discussions and was active during periods of societal change in Ireland. Participated in important Vatican II initiatives and focused on issues such as religious education and interfaith dialogue. Authored several works on theology and spirituality, addressing contemporary challenges faced by the Church.
Continue ReadingPer Oscarsson
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to European cinema. Gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s. Appeared in notable films such as 'The Uninvited' and 'The Nothing Factory'. Beyond acting, directed several stage productions and spent time developing screenplays. Received acclaim for performance in 'The Man on the Roof', which showcased versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Awarded the Guldbagge Award for Best Actor.
Continue ReadingAleksis Kivi
An influential Finnish author and playwright, this individual wrote primarily in Finnish, contributing significantly to Finnish literature. Best recognized for the classic novel 'Seven Brothers', the work is notable for its depiction of rural life and the Finnish identity. This writer also penned several plays, such as 'Kullervo' and 'The Finnish Girl', which explored themes of folklore and societal issues. Through these writings, the use of the Finnish language in literature gained momentum during a time when the language was underrepresented.
Continue ReadingAlan Cranston
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 ReadingKader Khan
A prolific actor and screenwriter, this individual contributed significantly to Indian cinema from the 1970s to the 2000s. With extensive work in Hindi and Urdu films, this person featured in over 300 films and was recognized for both comedic and dramatic roles. Starting a career in theatre before transitioning to cinema, credits include notable films like 'Bhookh' and 'Kuli'. This individual also co-wrote numerous successful screenplays that defined the era of masala films.
Continue Reading