Tip O'Neill
U.S. Politician and House Speaker
Served as a prominent American lawyer and politician. Elected to the United States House of Representatives for Massachusetts in 1952, held leadership positions including Majority Leader before becoming the 55th Speaker of the House in 1977. Advocated for various policies during a career that spanned nearly four decades. Retired from Congress in 1987 and authored a memoir detailing his experiences in government. Passed away in 1994.
Served as Speaker of the House from 1977 to 1987.
Played a key role in passing Social Security amendments.
Other People Born on December 9th
Mackenzie Blackwood
Canadian ice hockey player and goaltender
Born
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago
Drafted 42nd overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Made professional debut with the Devils in 2018. Established as the team's starting goaltender during the 2019-2020 season. Played significant games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs as a key player for the Devils. Represented Canada at international competitions, contributing to the team's success in tournaments.
Continue ReadingKyle Connor
Ice hockey player, Winnipeg Jets forward
Born
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago
An American ice hockey player spent significant time as a forward for the Winnipeg Jets in the National Hockey League (NHL). After being drafted 17th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, achieved notable success in his rookie season. Contributed to the Jets' playoff runs, making a strong impact in postseason competitions. Achieved career milestones, including multiple 30-goal seasons and showcasing exceptional scoring ability.
Continue ReadingKwadwo Asamoah
Ghanaian footballer and midfielder
Born
December 9th, 1988 37 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder, achieving recognition in European football. Joined Atalanta in 2021 after a successful tenure with Inter Milan, where he won multiple Serie A titles. Previously played for Udinese, contributing significantly to the team's midfield. Represented Ghana internationally, participating in the FIFA World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. Known for exceptional dribbling skills and versatility on the pitch, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Continue ReadingMark McMorris
Canadian Snowboarder, X Games Champion
Born
December 9th, 1993 32 years ago
A professional snowboarder from Canada, has excelled in slopestyle and big air events. Achieved significant success at the X Games, winning multiple gold medals. Competed in the Winter Olympics, winning bronze medals in 2014 and 2018. Overcame a serious injury in 2017, returning to competitive snowboarding shortly after. Regarded as one of the top snowboarders in the world.
Continue ReadingEric Bledsoe
Professional basketball player, NBA
Born
December 9th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional basketball player, primarily played as a point guard. Spent significant time in the NBA with the Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, and Milwaukee Bucks. Contributed to the Bucks' victory in the 2021 NBA Championship. Known for strong defensive skills and solid scoring ability. Played college basketball at the University of Kentucky.
Continue ReadingLangston Galloway
Professional basketball player; NBA career
Born
December 9th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, a professional basketball player played in the NBA, primarily as a shooting guard. Played college basketball at Saint Joseph's University, where contributed to a successful team, achieving a notable performance during the NCAA tournament. Transitioned to professional basketball, signing with the NBA's New York Knicks after being undrafted in 2014. Eventually played for several teams, including the Detroit Pistons and Sacramento Kings, showcasing consistent skills in shooting and scoring. In addition to NBA play, also participated in international leagues to further his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 5th
Vasko Popa
Serbian poet and academic recognized for contemporary poetry
Born
June 29th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1991 35 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1922, one of the pivotal figures in Serbian literature, focused on avant-garde poetry. His work often explored themes of folklore, myth, and existentialism. Contributed significantly to the literary scene in Yugoslavia and influenced many writers with innovative forms and styles. Authored several notable collections, including 'The Little Box' and 'The Eternal Introduction'. Served as a professor of literature, mentoring a generation of poets and scholars until his death in 1991.
Continue ReadingCostas Simitis
Greek politician and Prime Minister
Born
June 23rd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2025 1 years ago — 88 years old
An economist and lawyer, served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1996 to 2004. During the tenure, focused on modernization of the Greek economy and governance. Advocated for Greece's entry into the Eurozone, which was achieved in 2001. Prior to premiership, held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Industry.
Continue ReadingGeorge Washington Carver
Botanist, educator, and inventor
Born
1864 162 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1943 83 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent American botanist and educator, contributions included advancements in agricultural science. Focused on crop rotation and the use of peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other alternative crops to improve soil fertility. Developed numerous products derived from these plants, enhancing the economic viability of farming in the South. Served as a faculty member at Tuskegee Institute, where education and agricultural research were priorities.
Continue ReadingCarmen Zapata
American actress in theatre and film
Born
July 15th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2014 12 years ago — 86 years old
Carmen Zapata was an American actress with a career spanning several decades. Primarily recognized for contributions to stage and screen, she appeared in productions such as 'Zorro' and gained prominence in television with roles in series like 'The Brady Bunch' and 'The Partridge Family'. Zapata also had a notable career in regional theater, often highlighting Latinx heritage through her performances. In addition to acting, she was a dedicated advocate for Latino representation in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingMerlyn Rees
Welsh politician, Home Secretary
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2006 20 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a member of the British Labour Party and held various political positions, including Home Secretary from 1974 to 1976. Played a significant role during a challenging period in British politics, overseeing significant issues related to public safety and immigration. Participated in discussions and policies regarding social justice and community relations during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingSamuel Huntington
American jurist and politician
Born
July 16th, 1731 294 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1796 230 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the 18th Governor of Connecticut from 1786 until 1796. Contributed to the drafting of the Articles of Confederation. Played a role in the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence. Had a background in law and became a prominent figure in Connecticut's early governance.
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