William Peter Blatty
Author of The Exorcist novel
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An American author and screenwriter focused on themes of religion and the supernatural. Best recognized for the novel The Exorcist, published in 1971. The book became a bestseller and was later adapted into a successful film in 1973, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. He wrote several other novels, essays, and screenplays throughout his career, often exploring existential and philosophical questions.
Authored The Exorcist novel
Won an Academy Award for The Exorcist screenplay
Other People Born on January 7th
Eliezer Ben-Yehuda
Lexicographer and influencer of Hebrew
Born
January 7th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
1922 104 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Belarus, a significant figure in the revival of the Hebrew language. Engaged in the lexicographic work extensively, compiling and creating the first modern Hebrew dictionary. Established the first modern Hebrew-language newspaper, 'Hashahar'. Moved to Palestine in 1881 and became a pivotal force in promoting Hebrew as a spoken language. Advocated for Hebrew education and the establishment of Hebrew as the medium of instruction in schools.
Continue ReadingWayne Routledge
English footballer and player for Swansea City
Born
January 7th, 1985 41 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a winger from 2003 onward. Started career at Crystal Palace, where debut occurred at 18 years old. Had spells at clubs such as Southampton, Queens Park Rangers, and Swansea City. Achieved promotion with both QPR and Swansea City to the Premier League. Contributed to Swansea City's victory in the 2013 League Cup, marking the club's first major trophy. Retired from professional football in 2021.
Continue ReadingHudson Fysh
Pilot and co-founder of Qantas Airways
Born
January 7th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1974 51 years ago — 79 years old
Co-founded Qantas Airways Limited, which became Australia's largest airline. Played a significant role in developing the airline's operations and expansion throughout its early years. Contributed to the design and establishment of various aircraft used by the airline. Instrumental in establishing the Australian aviation industry post-World War II. Served as managing director and was pivotal in securing international routes for Qantas.
Continue ReadingBabe Pratt
Ice hockey player and Hall of Famer
Born
January 7th, 1916 110 years ago
Died
1988 38 years ago — 72 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the NHL from 1935 to 1948. Provided strong defensive skills and offensive contributions while playing for the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Won the Hart Memorial Trophy in 1944 as the NHL's most valuable player. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966.
Continue ReadingAlvin Dark
Baseball player and manager
Born
January 7th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
November 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, this individual played as a shortstop and later transitioned to managing teams in Major League Baseball. During a playing career that spanned from 1946 to 1960, contributions included time spent with the New York Giants, where a key highlight was winning the National League pennant in 1951. The managerial career featured leadership roles with several teams, including the San Francisco Giants and the Kansas City Athletics. This individual was recognized for skills in both offensive and defensive play, making significant contributions to the teams managed and played for.
Continue ReadingMillard Fillmore
13th President of the United States
Born
January 7th, 1800 226 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1874 152 years ago — 74 years old
Served as the 13th President of the United States from 1850 to 1853. Assumed presidency following the death of Zachary Taylor. Advocated for the Compromise of 1850, a series of legislation aimed at easing sectional tensions over slavery. Supported the enforcement of the Fugitive Slave Act. Founded the University at Buffalo, enhancing higher education in New York.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 12th
Max Beck
American intersex advocate
Born
1966 60 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2008 18 years ago — 42 years old
An intersex advocate contributed to raising awareness about intersex issues and rights. Engaged in activism that focused on the challenges faced by intersex individuals, including medical treatment and social acceptance. Developed educational materials and spoke publicly to promote understanding and acceptance of intersex variations. Advocated for the de-pathologization of intersex bodies and the need for bodily autonomy.
Continue ReadingEdward Smith
English sea captain of RMS Titanic
Born
January 27th, 1850 176 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1940 86 years ago — 89 years old
A sea captain, served as the captain of RMS Titanic during its ill-fated maiden voyage. After years of experience with the White Star Line, commanded several luxury liners. Titanic sank on April 15, 1912, after hitting an iceberg, resulting in significant loss of life. Smith had a reputation for being an experienced mariner before the disaster occurred. His last voyage became a pivotal moment in maritime history, highlighting the need for improved safety regulations in naval transportation.
Continue ReadingGeorgios Theotokis
Greek politician, 80th Prime Minister
Born
1844 182 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1916 110 years ago — 72 years old
Served as the 80th Prime Minister of Greece from 1899 to 1901. Played a significant role in various political movements and reforms during his tenure. Focused on modernization and strengthening the national infrastructure. Contributed to legislative changes that aimed at improving the legal framework of the country.
Continue ReadingJim Stanley
American football player and coach
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2012 14 years ago — 77 years old
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys. Coached at the collegiate level, contributing to various teams, including the University of Oklahoma. Held the position of head coach for the University of Michigan from 1974 to 1975, leading the team during critical games.
Continue ReadingSharad Yadav
Indian politician and former minister
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2023 3 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a member of the Lok Sabha for multiple terms. Held the position of the 30th Minister of Civil Aviation and the 29th Minister of Labour. Contributed to various legislative efforts and policies during a prominent political career spanning several decades. Involved in the formation and leadership of the Janata Dal, advocating for social justice and regional issues within Indian politics.
Continue ReadingConnie Mulder
South African politician and minister
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1988 38 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a member of the National Party in South Africa. Held the position of Minister of Information from 1977 to 1980. Actively participated in the political landscape during the apartheid era. Involved in the establishment and promotion of government policies during a contentious time in South African history. After leaving Parliament, continued involvement in various political and business ventures.
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