Shirley Chisholm
American politician and educator
An influential educator and politician, played a pivotal role in American politics as the first African American woman elected to the United States Congress. Served from 1969 to 1983, representing New York's 12th congressional district. Advocate for social justice and equality, focused on issues such as education, healthcare, and women's rights. Ran for the Democratic nomination for President in 1972, becoming the first major party African American candidate for the presidency. Worked tirelessly to bring attention to the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
First African American woman elected to Congress
Ran for President in 1972
Other People Born on November 30th
Gustav Suits
Poet and politician from Estonia
Born
November 30th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1956 69 years ago — 72 years old
Born in Estonia in 1883, Suits was a prominent poet and a notable political figure. Active in the Estonian independence movement, he participated in cultural and political discussions that shaped the national identity. Suits published a number of influential poetry collections, showcasing themes of nature, love, and nationalism. His literary contributions extended to essays and articles that furthered the discourse on Estonian culture. He also held various public office positions, contributing to the development of Estonian society during a pivotal period. His works continue to be studied in the context of Estonian literature and history.
Continue ReadingSteve Aoki
DJ and producer, founded Dim Mak Records
Born
November 30th, 1977 48 years ago
A prominent figure in electronic dance music, Aoki founded Dim Mak Records, which has helped to launch several successful artists in the genre. His career took off with remixing popular tracks and producing original songs that topped music charts. Aoki has collaborated with various artists across different genres, expanding the reach of EDM. Notable for his energetic performances, Aoki has headlined major music festivals worldwide, including Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival.
Continue ReadingJoël Champetier
Canadian author and screenwriter
Born
November 30th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 57 years old
An author and screenwriter with a focus on genre fiction and screenplays, Champetier published several noteworthy works. Contributions to the literary field include novels within the science fiction and fantasy genres. Champetier also wrote screenplays, which gained attention in the Canadian film industry. His works often explore themes of human experience and imagination, resonating with diverse audiences. Active in the Canadian literary community, he participated in various writing workshops and conventions, contributing to the development of emerging writers.
Continue ReadingJoan Ganz Cooney
Screenwriter and producer, co-creator of Sesame Street
Born
November 30th, 1929 96 years ago
A pioneering figure in children's television, co-created the educational program Sesame Street in 1969, which revolutionized the format of children's programming. The show integrated entertainment and education, addressing social issues and literacy through engaging characters and segments. Founded the Children's Television Workshop, which produced innovative programming aimed at young audiences. Received numerous accolades for contributions to children's media and television.
Continue ReadingHenry Taube
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 30th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2005 20 years ago — 89 years old
A Canadian-American chemist, contributed significantly to the field of inorganic chemistry, particularly in electron transfer reactions. Held a prominent academic career, including a long tenure at Stanford University. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1983 for studies in the mechanisms of electron transfer in metal complexes. Authored numerous influential papers and books, advancing the understanding of various chemical processes.
Continue ReadingClyfford Still
American abstract expressionist painter
Born
November 30th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1980 45 years ago — 75 years old
A leading figure in the Abstract Expressionism movement, contributions included a focus on large-scale canvases characterized by bold colors and distinct forms. Teaching positions occurred at several institutions, including the San Francisco Art Institute. The creation of the Clyfford Still Museum in Denver established a dedicated space for the preservation and exhibition of works. Art made significant waves in the mid-20th century, advancing the exploration of form and color in contemporary art.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Vilmos Zsigmond
Cinematographer of 'The Deer Hunter'
Born
June 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 10 years ago — 85 years old
A cinematographer and producer, born in Hungary and later becoming a prominent figure in American cinema. Worked on significant films from the 1970s onwards. Contributed visual storytelling to numerous acclaimed projects and collaborated with notable directors. Influenced the craft of cinematography through innovative techniques and artistic vision. Won an Academy Award for the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' and received multiple nominations throughout his career.
Continue ReadingDon Larsen
Baseball player, perfect game pitcher
Born
August 7th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2020 6 years ago — 90 years old
An American baseball player achieved prominence as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the New York Yankees, notable for throwing a perfect game in the 1956 World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. This achievement remains a significant highlight in World Series history, marking the only perfect game ever pitched in the Series. After his stellar performance in 1956, spent time with other teams such as the Chicago White Sox and the Kansas City Athletics before retiring from professional baseball.
Continue ReadingLexi Alijai
American rapper with notable mixtapes
Born
1998 28 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2020 6 years ago — 22 years old
A rapper emerged from the United States, gained recognition for blending various musical styles in original compositions. Released the mixtapes 'Growing Pains' in 2017 and 'I Am' in 2018, that showcased unique lyrical abilities and resonated with a young audience. Collaborated with other artists in the hip-hop community, contributing to a vibrant scene. Tragically passed away in 2020 at a young age, leaving behind a growing legacy within the genre.
Continue ReadingWayne Osmond
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
August 28th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2025 1 years ago — 73 years old
An American singer-songwriter and actor, contributed significantly to the music industry as a member of the Osmonds family group. Gained popularity in the 1970s through performances on television shows and concerts. Transitioned into acting, participating in various productions. Developed a successful solo career during the late 20th century, producing several albums and singles.
Continue ReadingLynja
Celebrity chef and YouTuber with viral content
Born
1956 70 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2024 2 years ago — 68 years old
Lynja gained popularity as a celebrity chef and YouTuber, known for engaging cooking videos and unique recipes. The YouTube channel featured a variety of culinary tutorials that attracted millions of subscribers. Lynja's approachable style and creativity resonated with audiences, making cooking accessible and enjoyable. The persona became well recognized online and participated in various culinary events and collaborations showcasing cooking talent. Lynja's influence extended into merchandise and cookbook creation, establishing a brand identity within the culinary community.
Continue ReadingUlrich Beck
German sociologist and risk society theorist
Born
May 15th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 11 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent sociologist, contributed significantly to social theory with the concept of 'risk society.' Focused on the implications of modernity and globalization, examining how societal risks shape human behavior and institutional responses. Authored influential works, including 'Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity' and 'The Reinvention of Politics.' Explored themes of individualization, ecological crisis, and the transformation of social structures. Established a framework for understanding the relationship between risks and societal changes.
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