Steve Montador
Ice hockey defenseman for NHL teams
Played as a professional ice hockey defenseman in the NHL. Competed for multiple teams including the Florida Panthers, Chicago Blackhawks, and Buffalo Sabres. Contributed to the teams with his defensive skills and physical play. Helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup in 2010. Also played in the AHL and internationally, representing Canada.
Won the Stanley Cup with Chicago Blackhawks in 2010
Played for teams including Florida Panthers and Buffalo Sabres
Other People Born on December 21st
Frank Zappa
Musician, composer, and producer
Born
December 21st, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1993 32 years ago — 52 years old
Active in the music scene from the 1960s until his death in 1993, this artist gained recognition for an extensive and varied discography. Zappa's work spanned genres including rock, jazz, and classical music. He produced over 60 albums, showcasing innovative compositions and elaborate arrangements. Zappa was also known for his provocative lyrics and satirical commentary on society and politics. In addition to his music career, Zappa was an outspoken advocate for freedom of expression and against censorship, participating in public debates on artistic liberties.
Continue ReadingThomas Bracken
Journalist, poet, and politician
Born
December 21st, 1843 182 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1898 127 years ago — 54 years old
Born in Ireland and later settling in New Zealand, contributed significantly to literature and politics. Bracken's poetry often reflected the themes of nationalism and the landscape of New Zealand. He served as a member of the New Zealand Parliament and was a prominent advocate for the cultural identity of the nation. His most celebrated work includes the poem 'God Defend New Zealand', which was later adopted as one of the national anthems. His efforts in journalism helped shape public discourse in 19th-century New Zealand.
Continue ReadingJoseph Carruthers
Australian politician, Premier of NSW
Born
December 21st, 1857 168 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1932 93 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 16th Premier of New South Wales from 1904 to 1907. Contributed to the development of the state's infrastructure and economic policies. Participated actively in the establishment of a public railway system, promoting transport and trade. Advocated for educational reforms. Held membership in various parliamentary committees, influencing legislative progress.
Continue ReadingWalter Hagen
Professional Golfer and Major Champion
Born
December 21st, 1892 133 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1969 56 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent American golfer who dominated the sport in the 1920s and 1930s. Achieved significant success in professional golf tournaments. Played a crucial role in the evolution of golf, popularizing the sport and elevating its status. Won multiple major championships, including four U.S. Opens and two British Opens, establishing a legacy as one of the greats of the game.
Continue ReadingFrank Patrick
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
December 21st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1960 65 years ago — 74 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the early 20th century and contributed to the development of the sport in Canada. Co-founded the Pacific Coast Hockey Association, which introduced several innovations to the game. Served as a coach for various teams, showcasing a deep understanding of ice hockey tactics and team dynamics.
Continue ReadingErnest de Munck
Belgian cellist and composer
Born
December 21st, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1915 111 years ago — 74 years old
Ernest de Munck contributed to the world of classical music as a distinguished cellist and composer. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, his works primarily focused on chamber music and orchestral compositions. De Munck's skills on the cello gained recognition, and he performed with notable ensembles. His compositions, while less frequently performed today, showcased his command of melody and harmony.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 15th
Bappi Lahiri
Indian singer and composer known for disco
Born
November 27th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2022 3 years ago — 69 years old
Originated from Kolkata, a notable singer and composer gained prominence in the Indian music industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Pioneered the incorporation of disco music into Indian films, earning recognition for his unique sound. Worked extensively as a music director for Bollywood films, producing numerous hit songs that became emblematic of the era. Championed the use of synthesizers in Indian music production, transforming the landscape of film soundtracks. Received multiple accolades for contributions to music, solidifying a legacy within the Indian entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingLew Wallace
American general and author of Ben-Hur
Born
April 10th, 1827 198 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1905 120 years ago — 77 years old
An author, general, and politician active during the 19th century, served as the 11th Governor of New Mexico Territory. Gained prominence as a Union general during the American Civil War, participating in notable battles such as the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Monocacy. Published the novel 'Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ' in 1880, which became one of the best-selling novels of all time and was later adapted into several successful film adaptations. Engaged in various political and artistic endeavors throughout his life, contributing to the development of the New Mexico Territory.
Continue ReadingPierre François Verhulst
Mathematician known for logistic growth model
Born
October 28th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1849 176 years ago — 44 years old
A Belgian mathematician contributed to the field of mathematical biology by formulating the logistic growth model, which describes population growth that is limited by resources. This model became foundational for various applications in ecology, economics, and social sciences. Verhulst published significant works on the mathematical principles underlying population dynamics and statistics. His contributions helped establish mathematical theories relevant to human and ecological populations.
Continue ReadingWilliam Schuman
Composer and educator, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
August 4th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1992 33 years ago — 81 years old
An influential American composer and educator, contributed significantly to the field of classical music. Served as president of the Juilliard School from 1945 to 1961, shaping the education of many future musicians. Composed numerous orchestral works, choral pieces, and chamber music, often characterized by American themes and styles. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1941 for his symphonic work, which further established his reputation in the music world. His compositions often featured innovative rhythms and harmonies that reflected the culture of his time.
Continue ReadingHoward K. Smith
American journalist and television anchor
Born
May 12th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2002 23 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent journalist and television anchor, contributed significantly to news broadcasting in the United States. Served as a network anchor for ABC and CBS during pivotal moments in American history, including the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. Worked as a correspondent for major events and produced numerous documentaries. Also had a notable film career, acting in productions such as 'The Best Man'.
Continue ReadingArnaud de Borchgrave
Journalist and author of political works
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent journalist and author, contributed extensively to political commentary and analysis. Served as editor-in-chief for several notable publications, including the Washington Times and United Press International. Authored several books on global affairs and terrorism, providing insights into international relations. His career spanned several decades, during which produced in-depth reporting from regions of conflict and covered significant historical events.
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