Zemgus Girgensons
Ice hockey player for the Buffalo Sabres
Born in Latvia, an ice hockey player emerged in the sport's competitive leagues. He played for the Buffalo Sabres in the National Hockey League (NHL) and gained recognition as one of the few Latvian players in the league. He made significant contributions during the international tournaments as a member of the Latvian national team.
Played for the Buffalo Sabres in the NHL
Competed in multiple IIHF World Championships
Other People Born on January 5th
Konrad Adenauer
Chancellor of West Germany
Born
January 5th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1967 58 years ago — 91 years old
A lawyer and politician served as the first Chancellor of West Germany from 1949 to 1963. Adenauer played a central role in shaping the post-World War II landscape and the integration of West Germany into Western Europe. His policies focused on economic recovery and modernization, establishing a social market economy that contributed to the 'Wirtschaftswunder' or economic miracle. Adenauer was instrumental in founding the European Economic Community, which laid the groundwork for the European Union. He was also a key figure in the establishment of NATO, solidifying West Germany's alignment with the West during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingAlexander Salák
Czech ice hockey goalie and Olympian
Born
January 5th, 1987 38 years ago
Born in 1987, this ice hockey player specialized as a goaltender. Played in the Czech Extraliga and the National Hockey League. Competed in the 2010 Winter Olympics representing the Czech Republic. Also played in various international tournaments, contributing to the national team's efforts on the global stage.
Continue ReadingPeter Goldsmith
English attorney general and lawyer
Born
January 5th, 1950 75 years ago
Served as Attorney General for England and Wales from 2001 to 2007, providing legal advice to the government and representing it in important legal cases. Played a role in key legal reforms and was involved in cases related to human rights and international law. Entered the House of Lords as a life peer in 2004. Held positions in various legal and political committees, contributing to discussions on law and public policy.
Continue ReadingAlvin Ailey
Choreographer and founder of Ailey American Dance Theater
Born
January 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1989 36 years ago — 58 years old
Ailey established a significant presence in American dance, focusing on African-American cultural experiences. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, which became a leading company in modern dance, showcasing a repertoire that celebrated African-American heritage. Ailey's choreography often combined elements from African-American spirituals and modern dance styles. One of the most acclaimed works, 'Revelations,' premiered in 1960 and continues to be performed worldwide, highlighting themes of struggle and triumph. Ailey's innovative approach transformed the landscape of American dance and broadened the appeal of modern dance to include audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Continue ReadingAulis Rytkönen
Finnish football manager and player
Born
January 5th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
Played as a footballer primarily for RoPS, contributing to the team's success in the Finnish leagues. Transitioned to coaching, managing several clubs including RoPS and helping to develop young talents in Finnish football. Involved in youth programs and served in various managerial roles, influencing the growth of the sport in Finland.
Continue ReadingJane Wyman
American actress; Academy Award winner
Born
January 5th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
September 10th, 2007 18 years ago — 90 years old
An American actress, Jane Wyman had a prolific career in film and television. Born in 1917, she gained significant recognition for her performances in movies during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Wyman's breakthrough role came in the film 'National Velvet', followed by a series of successful films such as 'The Lost Weekend' and 'Johnny Belinda', the latter earning an Academy Award for Best Actress. In addition to her film career, she starred in the long-running television series 'Falcon Crest', which showcased her talent and kept her in the public eye. Wyman's contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified her legacy as a prominent figure in American cinema.
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