William Shiels
Politician and 16th Premier of Victoria
Born in Ireland and emigrated to Australia, Shiels became a prominent politician in Victoria. He served as the 16th Premier of Victoria from 1892 to 1893. His time in office was marked by efforts to improve social services and infrastructure in the region. Throughout a long political career, Shiels held various positions in the Victorian government, contributing to legislative developments in the late 19th century.
Served as the 16th Premier of Victoria
Worked on improving social services in Victoria
Other People Born on December 3rd
Jan Hrubý
Czech violinist and songwriter
Born
December 3rd, 1948 77 years ago
A violinist and songwriter, rose to prominence in the Czech music scene. Established a reputation for proficiency in both performance and composition. Contributed to various musical projects, blending traditional themes with contemporary styles. His work has influenced a generation of musicians in the Czech Republic.
Continue ReadingHoward Kinsey
American tennis player and tournament champion
Born
December 3rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 67 years old
Competed primarily in the 1920s and 1930s in tennis, achieving notable success in both singles and doubles play. Achieved significant victories in various tournaments, including winning the U.S. National Championships in 1929. Also excelled in doubles, securing titles at prestigious events. Contributed to the growth of tennis during this era.
Continue ReadingRick Mears
Race car driver, four-time Indy 500 champion
Born
December 3rd, 1951 74 years ago
A prominent race car driver, achieved notable success in the IndyCar Series. Won the Indianapolis 500 four times, with victories in 1979, 1984, 1988, and 1991. Mears drove for successful teams such as Penske Racing and gained recognition for his skill on oval tracks. Contributed to advancements in race car design and technology during his career, ensuring competitiveness on the track.
Continue ReadingFrance Prešeren
Slovenian poet with works in Romanticism
Born
December 3rd, 1800 225 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1849 176 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent Slovenian poet and lawyer, contributed significantly to Slovenian literature during the Romantic period. Became the first poet to write in Slovene and his collections focused on themes of love, patriotism, and individuality. The poem 'Zdravljica', later adopted as the national anthem, celebrates Slovenian identity and unity. Received recognition as a leading figure in Slovene poetry at a time when the nation sought cultural and political autonomy.
Continue ReadingLen Lesser
American actor; played Uncle Leo
Born
December 3rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 88 years old
An American actor had a career spanning several decades in television and film. Most recognizable for the role of Uncle Leo in the television series Seinfeld, which aired from 1989 to 1998. Additionally appeared in several films and shows, contributing to a 30-year career in entertainment. Made guest appearances on other popular television shows, including The Twilight Zone, The Monkees, and M*A*S*H.
Continue ReadingEamonn Holmes
Irish journalist and game show host
Born
December 3rd, 1959 66 years ago
A journalist and television presenter born in 1959. Began a career in broadcasting with local radio before joining national outlets. Gained recognition as a news presenter on television and for hosting various programs. Sessions on shows have included morning and magazine formats, showcasing a blend of news reporting and entertainment. Has made notable contributions to both television and journalism through engaging presentation styles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Marc Favreau
Canadian actor and poet
Born
November 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
A Canadian actor and poet, this individual gained recognition for contributions to the performing arts. Favreau was particularly influential in French-language theatre and became a staple of Quebec's cultural landscape. The artistic career spanned several decades, during which numerous performances in various productions showcased poetic talent. The work engaged audiences and contributed to a vibrant cultural dialogue within the community. Additionally, the actor participated in television and contributed to various media forms, highlighting versatility in artistic expression.
Continue ReadingGregoire
Congolese chimpanzee, oldest recorded
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
Born in the 1960s, a chimpanzee resided at the Bobo Dioulasso Zoo in Burkina Faso. Gained recognition for longevity, becoming the oldest recorded chimpanzee in history. The chimpanzee's life spanned decades, showcasing resilience and adaptability in captivity. Survived various health challenges over the years.
Continue ReadingSturm
Abbot of Fulda
Died
December 17th, 779 1246 years ago — None years old
Served as the abbot of Fulda and played a crucial role in establishing the monastery as a center of learning and spiritual life in the 8th century. Contributed to the spread of Christianity among the Frankish people through education and missionary work. Associated with the development of monastic rules and practices that influenced later monasticism in Europe.
Continue ReadingGuillermo Cano Isaza
Colombian journalist and editor
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1986 39 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent Colombian journalist and editor, Cano Isaza focused on investigative reporting. He served as the director of the newspaper El Espectador. Cano Isaza covered issues related to violence and corruption in Colombia, particularly the drug trade. His work brought attention to the challenges facing the country during a turbulent period in its history. In 1986, he was murdered in Bogotá, a crime linked to his reporting on drug cartels.
Continue ReadingBaldwin V
Count of Hainaut and Flanders
Born
1150 875 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1195 830 years ago — 45 years old
Held the title of Count of Hainaut and Count of Flanders. Ascended to the throne at a young age and faced numerous challenges during the reign, including conflicts with neighboring territories and internal strife. Worked towards consolidating power and maintaining the stability of the region. Involved in the politics of the time, particularly regarding alliances and enmities among the local nobility.
Continue ReadingHarold Holt
Australian Prime Minister during 1966-67
Born
August 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1967 58 years ago — 59 years old
Served as the 17th Prime Minister of Australia from 1966 until disappearance in 1967. Before becoming Prime Minister, held various ministerial positions including Minister for Labour and National Service and Minister for Immigration. Expanded the country's involvement in the Vietnam War and introduced significant reforms in education and immigration policy. Holt's tenure is notably marked by his push for a new Liberal Party agenda and closer ties with the United States during the Cold War.
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