Strom Thurmond
American politician and governor
Held the position of 103rd Governor of South Carolina from 1947 to 1951. Served as a U.S. Senator from South Carolina for 48 years, from 1954 to 2003. Participated in multiple significant events during the Civil Rights Movement, including a famous filibuster against the Civil Rights Act of 1957.
Served as 103rd Governor of South Carolina
Held the longest-serving U.S. Senate term in history
Other People Born on December 5th
Jimmy Dimmock
English footballer, FA Cup winner
Born
December 5th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 72 years old
Played as a forward for several clubs, most notably for Brighton & Hove Albion and later for Tottenham Hotspur. Achieved recognition for contributions to the team during the 1920s. Won the FA Cup with Tottenham in 1921, highlighting significant professional milestones during his career. Later transitioned into management, influencing the development of players and teams in lower divisions.
Continue ReadingArthur Currie
Canadian general and military leader
Born
December 5th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1933 92 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent Canadian military leader, served with distinction during World War I. Became the first Canadian commander of the Canadian Corps in 1917. Oversaw several significant battles, including the Battle of Vimy Ridge, which occurred in April 1917. Instrumental in the development of tactics that utilized combined arms and innovation in warfare. Played a vital role in the Hundred Days Offensive, leading to the end of the war. Post-war, emphasized the importance of military training and preparation.
Continue ReadingOtto Preminger
Film director for 'Anatomy of a Murder'
Born
December 5th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1986 39 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Austria, directed numerous influential films in Hollywood after emigrating in the 1930s. Gained recognition for pushing boundaries with subject matter and storytelling techniques. Directed 'Anatomy of a Murder', which was one of the first films to depict courtroom procedures in detail. Also worked on influential films such as 'Laura' and 'The Man with the Golden Arm', the latter addressing drug addiction. Preminger was known for his strong directorial style and contributions to film production, which sometimes led to controversies within the industry.
Continue ReadingRené Cresté
French actor and director of 'La Glu'
Born
December 5th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1922 104 years ago — 41 years old
An actor and director in French cinema, credited for contributions to the early 20th century film industry. Worked in several silent films and transitioned into sound films. Directed and starred in various productions, establishing a reputation within the French cinematic landscape. Participated in the creation of 'La Glu', a film recognized for its artistic approach. Engaged with the theater community and helped promote cinematic arts in France.
Continue ReadingAlun Gwynne Jones
English historian and politician, Baron Chalfont
Born
December 5th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 101 years old
Baron Chalfont served as a historian and politician in the United Kingdom. Active in both the House of Lords and various historical societies, he contributed significantly to the field of historical research and public commentary. His work as a politician included involvement in key debates and initiatives during his tenure. He held the title of Baron Chalfont, which he was awarded for his service to public life and history. Additionally, he authored several works on British history and politics, shaping the understanding of the period.
Continue ReadingLin Biao
Chinese general and politician, Vice Premier
Born
December 5th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1971 54 years ago — 63 years old
Graduated from the Whampoa Military Academy, served in various military roles during the Chinese Civil War. Played a significant role in the establishment of the People's Republic of China. Held the position of Vice Premier and also served as the Defense Minister. Elevated in status due to loyalty to Mao Zedong and played a key role in the Cultural Revolution. Involved in military strategies that contributed to the Communist victory. Died in a plane crash while attempting to flee China.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 26th
Beth Chapman
Reality television star on Dog the Bounty Hunter
Born
October 29th, 1967 58 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2019 6 years ago — 51 years old
A reality television star, achieved recognition for appearances in the series 'Dog the Bounty Hunter.' The show followed the life of a bounty hunter and his family, highlighting various aspects of their work. The series aired from 2004 to 2012, showcasing the challenges and experiences involved in bounty hunting. Operated a successful bail bonding business alongside her husband. Also participated in spin-off shows and various guest appearances in reality television.
Continue ReadingArnold Brown
General of The Salvation Army
Born
1913 113 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2002 23 years ago — 89 years old
An English-Canadian figure led The Salvation Army as its 11th General from 1974 until 1977. During the tenure, significant expansions of the organization's international work occurred, focusing on social justice and humanitarian efforts. The leadership emphasized the importance of community engagement and spiritual outreach. Brown's commitment to serve marginalized populations strengthened the Army's presence globally, advocating for social change rooted in Christian principles.
Continue ReadingSaichō
Japanese Buddhist monk and founder
Born
September 15th, 767 1258 years ago
Died
June 26th, 822 1203 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent Japanese monk, played a critical role in the development of Japanese Buddhism. Founded the Tendai school, which became a dominant form of Buddhism in Japan. Studied various Buddhist texts and traditions, integrating them into a cohesive framework. Established Enryaku-ji temple on Mount Hiei, which became a center for Buddhist practice and education. Engaged in the promotion of essential Buddhist teachings, emphasizing the study of the Lotus Sutra and esoteric practices. His influence laid the groundwork for later Buddhist sects in Japan.
Continue ReadingCaesar Rodney
American politician and soldier
Born
October 7th, 1728 297 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1784 241 years ago — 55 years old
Served as the 4th Governor of Delaware, contributing during the American Revolutionary War. Demonstrated leadership in advocating for independence from Britain and represented Delaware at the Continental Congress. Advocated for revolutionary causes and played a crucial role in the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Served in various military capacities, including as a colonel in the Delaware militia.
Continue ReadingAnni Blomqvist
Finnish author known for literary works
Born
October 7th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1990 35 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Finland in 1909, a prominent author wrote novels and stories that often explored themes of identity, family, and nature. Blomqvist's works reflected a deep connection to Finnish culture and the landscape. She published several notable books throughout her career, contributing significantly to Finnish literature. The storytelling technique intertwined personal narratives with broader cultural contexts, resonating with both local and international audiences. Blomqvist's literature often drew inspiration from the Finnish way of life, infused with lyrical prose that brought the narrative to life.
Continue ReadingDenis Thatcher
English businessman and political spouse
Born
May 10th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
June 26th, 2003 22 years ago — 88 years old
A British businessman who led a successful career in the oil industry. Played a significant role in his wife's political career as the spouse of Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Managed various business interests and supported his wife's policies during her time in office. Actively participated in public engagements and provided support during significant political events. Maintained a relatively low public profile while being integral to the personal life of one of Britain’s most prominent political figures.
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