Alex Avila
Baseball catcher, 2-time All-Star
Played as a catcher primarily for the Detroit Tigers in Major League Baseball, contributing to the team's playoff appearances. Achieved two All-Star selections during career, recognized for defensive skills and on-base ability. Played for various teams, including the Chicago White Sox and the Washington Nationals, showcasing versatility in positions. Competed in significant postseason games, including the 2012 World Series.
Selected to the All-Star Game in 2011 and 2014
Played in the 2012 World Series with the Detroit Tigers
Led MLB catchers in on-base percentage in 2011
Other People Born on January 29th
Teresa Teng
Taiwanese pop singer with timeless ballads
Born
January 29th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1995 30 years ago — 42 years old
A prominent pop singer from Taiwan who gained popularity across Asia during the 1970s and 1980s. Famous for a unique voice and romantic ballads, albums included hits in Mandarin, Cantonese, and Japanese. Songs such as 'The Moon Represents My Heart' and 'When Will You Return?' became classics. Her music often explored themes of love and nostalgia, resonating deeply with audiences. Despite her untimely death in 1995, songs continue to be celebrated and are influential in the pop music genre.
Continue ReadingAyobami Adebayo
Nigerian author, writer of 'Stay With Me'
Born
January 29th, 1988 38 years ago
An author based in Nigeria, notable for writing 'Stay With Me', which explores themes of love, loss, and familial relationships against the backdrop of Nigeria's sociopolitical landscape. The novel received critical acclaim and was shortlisted for several awards, including the 2017 Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction. Adebayo's work often delves into the complexities of human experiences and the intricacies of Nigerian society. In addition to 'Stay With Me', contributions include short stories featured in various anthologies. Adebayo's writing reflects a deep engagement with cultural contexts and personal narratives.
Continue ReadingErnst Kummer
Mathematician; Worked on ideal theory
Born
January 29th, 1810 216 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1893 132 years ago — 83 years old
Contributed significantly to algebraic number theory, particularly in the development of the theory of ideals. Served as a professor at various universities, including the University of Berlin. Published important works that advanced the understanding of algebra and number theory, including investigations on the properties of hypergeometric functions. Introduced the notion of Kummer extension and provided foundational work that influenced future mathematicians in the field.
Continue ReadingAllen B. DuMont
Television engineer and network founder
Born
January 29th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
1965 61 years ago — 64 years old
An American engineer and broadcaster, contributed significantly to the development of television technology. Founded the DuMont Television Network in 1946, which became one of the first commercial television networks in the United States. Played a pivotal role in advancing early television broadcasts and technology. Worked on various aspects of television including receiver design and production techniques. The network was crucial in popularizing television before its eventual decline in the 1950s due to competition. Actively engaged in promoting the television industry through innovation and development of technology throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJames Jamerson
American bass player with Motown Records
Born
January 29th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1983 42 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent bass player in the Motown sound, contributed to numerous classic songs during the 1960s. Played on iconic tracks by various artists, influencing the genre of soul and rock music. Worked primarily as a session musician, utilizing the Fender Precision Bass to craft memorable lines that became integral to the rhythm and melody of countless hits. Jamerson's innovative playing style and techniques helped define the bass guitar's role in popular music.
Continue ReadingJohn D. Rockefeller Jr.
American businessman and philanthropist
Born
January 29th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1960 65 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1874, a prominent businessman and philanthropist. Played a key role in the expansion of the Rockefeller family's wealth through Standard Oil and various investments. Focused extensively on philanthropy, supporting education, public health, and the arts. Instrumental in the establishment of several major cultural institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Worked to improve urban planning and public spaces, advocating for the development of parks and public buildings.
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