Wally Olins
Businessman and branding expert
A prominent businessman and academic, contributed significantly to the field of branding. Founded the brand consultancy Wolff Olins in 1965, and worked with numerous high-profile clients, including British Airways and Orange. Authored several influential books on branding, exploring the relationship between corporate identity and consumer perception. Served as a professor of branding at various institutions, providing insights into brand strategy and corporate identity.
Founded Wolff Olins
Consulted for British Airways
Authored 'Wally Olins: The Brand Handbook'
Other People Born on December 19th
Pratibha Patil
Indian politician, 12th President of India
Born
December 19th, 1934 91 years ago
Served as the 12th President of India from 2007 to 2012. Practiced law prior to entering politics and held various positions in state and national government. Worked in the Indian National Congress for several decades, contributing to legislative processes and policy formulation. Contributed to women's empowerment and education initiatives throughout political career.
Continue ReadingCasper R. Taylor Jr.
American lawyer and politician
Born
December 19th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent American lawyer and politician, served as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates from 1975 to 1994. Held the position of Speaker of the House of Delegates from 1987 to 1994, overseeing legislative sessions and working on various laws and initiatives. Played a significant role in state politics and contributed to numerous legal reforms during tenure. Engaged in various community and legal organizations throughout career, promoting legal aid and public service.
Continue ReadingGene Okerlund
Wrestling announcer and interviewer
Born
December 19th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2019 6 years ago — 76 years old
Career in professional wrestling spanned several decades, beginning in the 1970s. Served as a prominent announcer and interviewer in the American wrestling industry, gaining a reputation for engaging interviews and a signature catchphrase. Worked with organizations including the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Became a familiar face on television during major wrestling events and pay-per-views. His contributions helped elevate the status of wrestling as a form of entertainment, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingMaurice White
Singer-songwriter and Earth, Wind & Fire founder
Born
December 19th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in the music industry, this individual co-founded the iconic band Earth, Wind & Fire in 1969. The blend of R&B, soul, and funk created a distinctive sound that garnered significant acclaim. The group achieved widespread success during the 1970s and 1980s, with numerous hit songs and albums that defined the era. This individual also produced and wrote for a variety of artists, contributing to the broader musical landscape. The band's contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingTony Taylor
Cuban baseball player and coach
Born
December 19th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old
Played second base in Major League Baseball for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. Had a career spanning 1958 to 1971. Served as a coach for various teams after retirement from playing. Contributed to the development of young players and the promotion of baseball in Cuba.
Continue ReadingTim Reid
Actor and director, known for ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’
Born
December 19th, 1944 81 years ago
An American actor and director, this individual gained recognition for roles in television and film. Most prominently featured in the sitcom ‘WKRP in Cincinnati,’ played the character Venus Flytrap. Extended career included directing various television episodes and stage productions. Worked extensively in theater, showcasing talents in both dramatic and comedic forms, and contributed to the advancement of African American representation in the performing arts. Engaged in film and television projects that reflected social issues and cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 14th
Gillis Grafström
Figure skater and Olympic champion
Born
June 7th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1938 87 years ago — 44 years old
Acclaimed for excellence in figure skating, this individual competed in the early 20th century. Achievements in the sport included multiple Olympic gold medals, demonstrating exceptional skill and artistry. Alongside competitive successes, contributions to architectural design were made, blending creativity with functional structures. The influence extended beyond competitions, impacting future generations in both skating and architecture.
Continue ReadingRachel Carson
Biologist and author of Silent Spring
Born
May 27th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1964 61 years ago — 56 years old
An influential biologist and author concentrated on the study of environmental science. Authored the groundbreaking book Silent Spring, which highlighted the dangers of pesticides, particularly DDT, to the environment and human health. Advocated for the conservation of natural resources and the responsible use of chemicals in agriculture. Her work sparked worldwide environmental movements and led to policy changes in pesticide regulation.
Continue ReadingGina Krog
Norwegian women's rights activist
Born
June 20th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1916 109 years ago — 68 years old
Active in the late 19th and early 20th century, significant contributions were made to the women’s suffrage movement in Norway. Efforts led to the establishment of the Norwegian Association for Women’s Rights in 1885. Advocacy focused on education and voting rights for women. Krog's work played a crucial role in the eventual granting of voting rights to women in Norway in 1913.
Continue ReadingGianni Rodari
Italian journalist and children's author
Born
October 23rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1983 42 years ago — 62 years old
Worked as a teacher and journalist in Italy. Published children's literature that emphasized imagination and creativity. 'The Grammar of Fantasy' provided insights into storytelling techniques. 'The Adventures of Cipollino' presented social issues through the lens of a children's narrative. Authored numerous fables and stories that became classics in children's literature and were translated into multiple languages.
Continue ReadingAnthony Newley
English singer-songwriter and actor
Born
September 24th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1999 26 years ago — 67 years old
An influential figure in British entertainment, this artist's career spanned music and acting. Achievements include creating and starring in the musical 'Stop the World – I Want to Get Off,' which showcased original songs and earned acclaim. Collaborating with Leslie Bricusse, produced hit songs like 'What Kind of Fool Am I?' and 'Feel So Bad.' This talent also starred in films such as 'Can-Heir of the Ring.' A dynamic performer, this artist's contribution to popular music and theater is notable.
Continue ReadingSimone de Beauvoir
Philosopher and author of The Second Sex
Born
January 9th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1986 39 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent French philosopher and writer, contributed significantly to existentialism and feminist theory. The publication of 'The Second Sex' in 1949 brought attention to the construction of women's roles in society and challenged traditional views on gender. Engaged in intellectual debates and maintained a lifelong partnership with philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, influencing the post-war cultural landscape in France. Wrote novels, essays, and criticisms, engaging with social, political, and ethical questions.
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