Ben Wilson
Basketball player and prep superstar
Born
1967
59 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An American basketball player stood out at Chicago's Simeon Career Academy, earning recognition as one of the top high school players in the country. During the senior year, achieved a remarkable average of 24.5 points per game, leading the team to a state championship. His skills garnered attention from numerous college programs, and he committed to play for the University of Illinois. Tragically, his life was cut short at the age of 17 due to a shooting incident, which sparked discussions on gun violence and youth safety. The legacy of this talented athlete continues to influence young players in the Chicago area.
Led Simeon Career Academy to a state championship
Averaged 24.5 points per game in senior year
Other People Who Died on November 21st
David Cassidy
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 12th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2017 8 years ago — 67 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the 1970s as a member of the pop group The Partridge Family. The group achieved commercial success with hit singles and a popular television show entitled 'The Partridge Family'. He also pursued a solo music career, releasing several albums that included hits like 'I Think I Love You'. In addition to music, ventured into acting, making appearances in various television shows and stage productions. Cassidy's career was marked by a dedicated fan base, particularly among young audiences during the height of his fame. Struggled with personal issues later in life, including financial troubles and health challenges.
Continue ReadingJacques de Vaucanson
French engineer and inventor of automata
Born
February 24th, 1709 317 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1782 243 years ago — 73 years old
Developed innovative mechanical devices that mimicked human and animal actions. Created the first known automated flute player, a remarkable feat of engineering that amazed audiences. Designed a mechanical duck that could flap its wings, drink water, and digest food, serving as an early example of artificial life. Contributed to the fields of automation and robotics, influencing future generations of engineers and inventors.
Continue ReadingCarl Friedrich Schmidt
Geologist and botanist, explored flora.
Born
January 27th, 1832 194 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1908 117 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1832, a geologist and botanist contributed significantly to the understanding of plant life and geology in the Baltic region. Conducted extensive research in Estonia and Russia, focusing on the local flora and geological formations. Schmidt's work included collecting and cataloging numerous plant specimens, and he was involved in early studies of the region's geology, contributing valuable insights into the area's natural history. His efforts in academia and field research laid the groundwork for future studies in botany and geology.
Continue ReadingHenry Purcell
English organist and composer of opera
Born
September 10th, 1659 366 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1695 330 years ago — 36 years old
An English composer and organist, contributed significantly to the Baroque music era. Served as the organist of Westminster Abbey and composed various sacred music, operas, and instrumental works. Purcell is notable for his opera 'Dido and Aeneas', recognized as one of the earliest English operas. His works exhibit a deep emotional thrust and innovative use of harmony, influencing subsequent generations of composers.
Continue ReadingCount Leopold Berchtold
Austrian-Hungarian diplomat, Joint Foreign Minister
Born
April 18th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1942 83 years ago — 79 years old
Served as the Joint Foreign Minister of Austria-Hungary during a pivotal time leading up to World War I. Played a significant role in the diplomatic maneuvers that followed the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Was involved in shaping the foreign policy of Austria-Hungary and had a critical role in the tensions that escalated into the war. Advocated for a hardline response to Serbia and influenced the decisions made by the Austro-Hungarian government.
Continue ReadingMargaret Taylor-Burroughs
Painter & author, DuSable Museum co-founder
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2010 15 years ago — 93 years old
An American painter and author, contributed significantly to the arts and education. Co-founded the DuSable Museum of African American History in Chicago, which focuses on African American culture and history. Created works that reflected the African American experience and focused on promoting cultural awareness. Served as a teacher and mentor, influencing future generations of artists and scholars.
Continue Reading