Bernard Delfgaauw
Philosopher and academic in the Netherlands
Contributed significantly to philosophical literature, particularly in the field of philosophy of science. Worked as a professor, influencing many students and scholars. Authored several books that examined the connections between philosophy and science. Engaged in discussions and debates that shaped academic thought in the mid-20th century.
Published numerous philosophical texts
Served as a professor in the Netherlands
Other People Born on November 24th
William Webb Ellis
Rugby innovator, created Rugby football
Born
November 24th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
1872 153 years ago — 66 years old
An English priest devised the game of Rugby football in 1823 while attending Rugby School. The event occurred during a football match when the individual picked up the ball and ran with it, establishing a new style of play. This act is often cited as the inception of Rugby, leading to the formalization of the sport in subsequent years. The first set of rules for Rugby football was created shortly thereafter, influencing a range of similar sports.
Continue ReadingMaria Amalia of Saxony
Queen consort of Naples and Sicily
Born
November 24th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
1760 265 years ago — 36 years old
Born into the House of Wettin, a royal family in Saxony, served as the Queen consort of Naples and Sicily from 1738 until the end of her husband’s reign in 1759. Played a significant role in the cultural and political landscape of her time. Her marriage to Charles III of Spain linked powerful European dynasties. Actively supported the establishment and development of arts and education in her realm. Oversaw the construction of notable architectural projects that enhanced the cultural identity of Naples.
Continue ReadingWilly Claes
Belgian politician and NATO Secretary General
Born
November 24th, 1938 87 years ago
Served as the 8th Secretary General of NATO from 1994 to 1995, overseeing key security initiatives during a tumultuous period in European politics. Involved in Belgian politics, served as a member of the Belgian Parliament, and held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Economic Affairs. Known for contributions to international relations and defense strategies during his tenure at NATO.
Continue ReadingWalter Burley Griffin
Architect and urban planner; designed Canberra
Born
November 24th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 61 years old
An architect and urban planner, contributed significantly to the design of cities in the early 20th century. Worked collaboratively with wife Marion Mahony Griffin, producing influential architectural works. The design of Canberra, chosen as the capital of Australia, stands as a major accomplishment. Emphasized the integration of natural landscapes into urban environments and adopted principles of the Prairie School, characterized by horizontal lines and open spaces.
Continue ReadingLucky Luciano
Italian-American mob boss
Born
November 24th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1962 63 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1897 in Sicily, a significant figure in organized crime in the United States. Played a pivotal role in the development of the National Crime Syndicate. Instrumental in establishing the commission system to govern Mafia activities. Deported to Italy in 1946 after being convicted of prostitution charges, continued to influence organized crime from abroad until death in 1962.
Continue ReadingJohn Squire
Singer-songwriter and guitarist for The Stone Roses
Born
November 24th, 1962 63 years ago
A musician and guitarist, Squire gained prominence as a member of the British rock band The Stone Roses. The group rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s, recognized for their influential sound that merged elements of rock and dance. Squire's guitar work and songwriting contributed significantly to the band's acclaim. Following the band's initial disbandment, he pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and exploring different musical styles. In 2011, Squire reunited with former bandmates to perform, revitalizing interest in the band's legacy. His contributions to music have left a lasting impression on the Britpop movement.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
William Bedloe
English spy during the 17th century
Born
April 20th, 1650 375 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1680 345 years ago — 30 years old
Born in 1650 in England, significant contributions were made to espionage efforts during the turbulent period of the 17th century. Engaged in various intelligence activities, often working undercover to gather and deliver vital information. Involved in numerous plots and conflicts of the time, including the Popish Plot, a supposed conspiracy to assassinate King Charles II. Worked alongside prominent figures in the government and influenced political decisions through intelligence operations. Bedloe's activities spanned several critical events in English history, showcasing the role of espionage in shaping national policy and security.
Continue ReadingCharles Bannerman
Cricketer and umpire; Test cricket pioneer
Born
July 3rd, 1851 174 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1930 95 years ago — 79 years old
Born in England and later residing in Australia, this individual played a significant role in the early years of Test cricket. He was a member of the Australian team that participated in the first-ever Test match against England in 1877. Bannerman scored the first century in Test history, achieving 165 runs in that match. In addition to his playing career, he served as an umpire in various matches, contributing to the development and standardization of the sport during its formative years.
Continue ReadingAnton Buslov
Astrophysicist and journalist
Born
November 4th, 1983 42 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 30 years old
An astrophysicist and journalist associated with research in the field of astrophysics. Contributed to various studies and publications related to cosmic phenomena and space exploration. Engaged in science communication to enhance public understanding of astrophysical concepts. Worked with academic institutions and media outlets to disseminate knowledge on celestial events and discoveries.
Continue ReadingPercy Williams Bridgman
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 21st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1961 64 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent American physicist and academic, he contributed significantly to experimental physics and high-pressure research. Bridgman developed methods to achieve extreme pressures and studied their effects on various materials. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1946 for his work on the properties of matter under high pressures, he became a professor at Harvard University where he mentored future scientists. His research advanced the understanding of physical phenomena in solid state physics.
Continue ReadingJoe Rosenthal
Photographer best known for iconic Iwo Jima image
Born
October 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 94 years old
An American photographer, recognized for capturing the famous image of U.S. Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. This photograph, taken on February 23, 1945, became one of the most reproduced images in history and played a pivotal role in boosting American morale during the war. The photograph won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 1945, solidifying its place in American cultural history. Rosenthal's work has been exhibited in various prestigious galleries and is part of the permanent collection of the U.S. National Archives.
Continue ReadingB. K. S. Iyengar
Yoga Instructor and Iyengar Yoga founder
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old
An influential yoga instructor and author, established a method of yoga that emphasizes precision and alignment. Founded Iyengar Yoga, which integrates a systematic approach to the practice through the use of props. Authored several books on yoga, including 'Light on Yoga', which serves as a foundational text for many practitioners. The teachings and methodologies contributed significantly to the global spread and practice of yoga.
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