Thomas Nast
Political cartoonist and illustrator
A prominent cartoonist during the 19th century, contributions included illustrations for Harper's Weekly. Played a significant role in shaping public opinion through political cartoons that addressed issues such as corruption, especially targeting Tammany Hall in New York City. Created the modern image of Santa Claus and popularized the elephant as the symbol of the Republican Party. His work laid the groundwork for future political satire in American media.
Illustrated for Harper's Weekly
Popularized the elephant symbol for the Republican Party
Created the modern image of Santa Claus
Other People Born on September 27th
Jahn Teigen
Norwegian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 27th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Norway, this individual gained prominence in the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s. A significant figure in pop music, created numerous hits that showcased a distinctive style blending rock and pop elements. Represented Norway twice in the Eurovision Song Contest, achieving notable success with songs that resonated with audiences. In addition to a successful solo career, collaborated with various artists and produced several albums that contributed to the Scandinavian music landscape.
Continue ReadingPrince Amedeo
Duke of Aosta, Italian nobleman
Born
September 27th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 78 years old
Born into the Italian royal family, held the title of Duke of Aosta. Attended the University of Turin, where studies focused on economics and political science. Undertook a military career, serving in the Italian Army and participating in international missions. Engaged in various social and cultural initiatives, promoting Italian heritage and traditions. Involved in the administration of family properties and foundations dedicated to charitable causes.
Continue ReadingRandy Bachman
Canadian guitarist and songwriter
Born
September 27th, 1943 82 years ago
Achieved prominence as a guitarist and songwriter in the rock genre. Co-founded the influential bands The Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive. Contributed to The Guess Who's success with hits like 'American Woman' and 'These Eyes.' With Bachman-Turner Overdrive, produced iconic tracks such as 'Takin' Care of Business' and 'You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet.' Besides music, engaged in various solo projects and collaborations, showcasing versatility in songwriting and performance.
Continue ReadingDith Pran
Photographer and journalist, The Killing Fields
Born
September 27th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2008 17 years ago — 65 years old
A Cambodian-American photographer and journalist. Documented the Cambodian genocide under the Khmer Rouge regime. Survived the regime's atrocities and later escaped to the United States. Worked with The New York Times as a photojournalist, providing coverage of the Vietnam War and the fall of Phnom Penh. His experiences inspired the film 'The Killing Fields', which depicts the horrors faced during the Khmer Rouge era. Continued to raise awareness about the Cambodian genocide and contributed to discussions on human rights and freedom of the press.
Continue ReadingMike Schmidt
Baseball player, 3-time MVP
Born
September 27th, 1949 76 years ago
Played third base for the Philadelphia Phillies from 1972 to 1989. Contributed to the team's success by leading them to a World Series championship in 1980. Recognized as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history, he recorded over 500 career home runs. Accumulated three Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards during his career, showcasing exceptional performance during multiple seasons. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1995.
Continue ReadingDon Nix
Saxophonist and songwriter for major artists
Born
September 27th, 1941 84 years ago
An American saxophonist, songwriter, and producer, Nix contributed significantly to the music scene. He worked with prominent artists in genres such as rock and blues, showcasing musical versatility. Collaborations with Elvis Presley, George Harrison, and The Band highlighted his impact within the industry. Nix also produced several notable recordings, blending different styles and influences. His work in the 1970s particularly gained recognition, with performances exhibiting proficiency on the saxophone.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 7th
Édouard Molinaro
French filmmaker and director of comedies
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Acted as a prominent figure in French cinema, mainly recognized for directing successful comedies. Directed the well-received film 'La Cage aux Folles', which gained international acclaim and was later adapted into a Broadway musical. Contributed to the French film industry as a producer and screenwriter, creating a body of work that showcased his talents in various genres. His films often featured a blend of humor and social commentary, connecting with audiences in France and beyond.
Continue ReadingChuck Yeager
US Air Force General and test pilot
Born
February 13th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 97 years old
A pioneering test pilot and U.S. Air Force general, achieved a significant milestone in aviation history by breaking the sound barrier in 1947. Yeager's flight aboard the Bell X-1, named Glamorous Glennis, marked the first time a human surpassed the speed of sound. Following this groundbreaking achievement, Yeager continued to contribute to the field of aviation through numerous test flights and military service during World War II and the Vietnam War. Later, he served as a key figure in aerospace research, sharing expertise with various aircraft programs.
Continue ReadingKari Tapio
Finnish singer with chart-topping hits
Born
November 22nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2010 15 years ago — 65 years old
Began a career in music in the 1960s, with significant contributions to the Finnish music scene. Released numerous albums and became a household name. His distinct style and emotional delivery resonated with audiences, leading to a string of successful singles throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved great popularity with a blend of traditional and modern influences, culminating in a vibrant discography. Continued to perform until the end of his life, solidifying his legacy within Finnish culture.
Continue ReadingJuan Luna
Filipino painter and sculptor of Spoliarium
Born
October 23rd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1899 126 years ago — 42 years old
Born in 1857, this artist gained recognition for contributions to Philippine art during the 19th century. Primarily a painter and a sculptor, he was a prominent figure in the development of modern art in the Philippines. His most notable work, Spoliarium, won the first gold medal at the 1884 Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid. This achievement helped elevate the status of Filipino artists on the international stage. His works showcased themes of nationalism and the struggles of the Filipino people during Spanish colonization. Apart from painting, he was also involved in the revolutionary movement against colonial rule, collaborating with fellow reformists to advocate for social change.
Continue ReadingDick Allen
Baseball player; 1972 American League MVP
Born
March 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
December 7th, 2020 5 years ago — 78 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a first baseman and designated hitter. Had a significant career in Major League Baseball, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Atlanta Braves. Acclaimed for powerful hitting and unique style on and off the field. Achieved the American League MVP award in 1972 while playing for the White Sox, leading the league in multiple offensive categories. Inducted into various halls of fame and recognized for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingPeter Lely
Dutch-English painter of portraiture
Born
September 14th, 1618 407 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1680 345 years ago — 62 years old
Born in the Netherlands and later relocating to England, a career in painting flourished with a focus on portraiture during the 17th century. A prominent artist, created numerous portraits of notable figures in English society, particularly during the Restoration period. Served as the court painter to King Charles II, producing works that captured the likenesses of nobles and royalty. Established a reputation for both his technical skill and ability to convey personality through his subjects.
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