Toh Chin Chye
Singaporean politician, Deputy Prime Minister
Served as the first Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore after gaining prominent roles in the leadership of the People's Action Party. Contributed significantly to the establishment of Singapore’s political landscape post-independence and played a key role in the formation of various governmental policies. Served in various capacities, including Minister for Science and Technology, and Minister for Home Affairs, influencing Singapore's development in education and technology sectors. After retiring from politics, remained active in academic circles.
Served as Deputy Prime Minister from 1959 to 1972
Held the position of Minister for Science and Technology
Was a founding member of the People's Action Party
Other People Born on December 10th
Andris Bērziņš
Latvian politician and businessman
Born
December 10th, 1944 81 years ago
Served as the 8th President of Latvia from 2011 to 2015. Held positions in various businesses and political roles prior to presidency. Worked as a businessman in the banking sector and was involved in the privatization of state-owned enterprises. Was a member of the People's Party and participated in Latvian politics throughout the post-Soviet transition period.
Continue ReadingHoward Martin Temin
Geneticist, Nobel Prize laureate in Physiology
Born
December 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1994 31 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent geneticist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of the interplay between genetics and viral behavior. Conducted groundbreaking research that led to the discovery of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that converts RNA to DNA, illuminating mechanisms behind certain viruses such as HIV. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1975 for co-discovery of reverse transcription. His work laid important groundwork for molecular biology and genetics research.
Continue ReadingYuri Temirkanov
Conductor and viola player in Russia
Born
December 10th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1938, a prominent viola player and conductor, highlighted contributions to classical music through leadership positions with major orchestras. Held the position of Principal Conductor of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra for several decades. Contributed to various international music festivals, often collaborating with renowned musicians. Conducted performances across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, enhancing the visibility of orchestral works.
Continue ReadingMako Iwamatsu
Japanese actor in 'The Sand Pebbles'
Born
December 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2006 19 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1933, this actor had a prominent career in film and television. Early work included performances in Japanese cinema before moving to the United States. Notably starred in the film 'The Sand Pebbles' alongside Steve McQueen, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Also appeared in popular TV series such as 'Hawaii Five-O' and 'M*A*S*H'. His contribution to the arts extended to voice work in animated features, lending his voice to characters in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' and 'The Last Unicorn'.
Continue ReadingMukhtar Altynbayev
Kazakhstani General and Defence Minister
Born
December 10th, 1945 80 years ago
Born in 1945, a prominent military figure served as the 3rd Defence Minister of Kazakhstan from 1994 to 1999. Played significant roles in shaping Kazakhstan's defense policies post-independence. Oversaw developments in the military infrastructure and participated in strategic military partnerships with other nations. Contributed to the establishment of a modern armed forces framework aligning with NATO standards, and engaged in various international defense dialogues.
Continue ReadingLucien Laurent
French footballer and coach
Born
December 10th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
April 11th, 2005 20 years ago — 97 years old
Played as a forward in football, primarily associated with the French national team. Achieved recognition as the first-ever goal scorer in FIFA World Cup history during the 1930 tournament held in Uruguay. Had a club career that included stints at clubs such as FC Sochaux and Stade Français. Transitioned into coaching after retiring as a player, contributing to the development of football in France.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 3rd
Julie Adams
American actress in horror films
Born
October 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2019 6 years ago — 92 years old
An actress focused on film and television, noted for a prominent role in the 1954 horror classic 'Creature from the Black Lagoon'. Adams portrayed the character Kay Lawrence, drawing significant attention for the performance. Additionally, appeared in various television series, including 'The Jimmy Stewart Show' and 'Murder, She Wrote', contributing to both the silver screen and small screen endeavors. Spent several decades in the entertainment industry, earning a reputation for versatility across genres.
Continue ReadingHenry Brooke
English politician, 11th Baron Cobham
Born
November 22nd, 1564 461 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1619 406 years ago — 54 years old
An English politician held the title of 11th Baron Cobham and served as Lord Lieutenant of Kent. Active in the political landscape during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, served in various roles that influenced the governance and administration of the region. Engaged in local and national matters during a time of significant political change. Additionally, faced challenges related to his family's legacy and connections within the court.
Continue ReadingMartin Gilbert
Historian and author of WWII works
Born
October 25th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
An English historian and author specialized in 20th century history, focusing on World War II and Jewish history. Authored over 80 books, including a comprehensive biography of Winston Churchill. Served as the official biographer of Churchill for over twenty years. Worked as a professor of history at the University of Alberta and was a Fellow of Merton College, Oxford.
Continue ReadingGeorge Crabbe
English surgeon and poet
Born
December 24th, 1754 271 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1832 193 years ago — 77 years old
Engaged in a medical career as a surgeon and achieved distinction as a poet. Published the work 'The Village,' which illustrated rural life and social issues of the time. Contributed to the literary scene with a focus on realism and detail in poetic form. Participated in the literary discussions of his era, gaining respect among contemporaries. His poetry often reflected personal experiences and observations from his medical practice.
Continue ReadingPedro Rodríguez
Spanish statesman and economist
Born
1723 302 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1802 223 years ago — 79 years old
A Spanish statesman and economist played a crucial role in the political and economic landscape of Spain during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Rodríguez served as a minister under King Charles III and implemented significant economic reforms. His efforts focused on modernizing Spain's economy, promoting agricultural improvements, and enhancing trade practices. The contributions made during his tenure had lasting effects on the nation’s financial structures and policies. Rodríguez also held various administrative roles that shaped Spain's approach to economic management.
Continue ReadingTerence Hildner
American General in the military
Born
1962 63 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 50 years old
Served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of General. Participated in key military operations and held various leadership positions throughout a career spanning several decades. Oversaw military planning and training, contributing to the readiness of U.S. forces. Engaged in strategic decision-making that impacted military policies and operations.
Continue Reading