Bernard Montgomery
Field Marshal, 1st Viscount Montgomery
A prominent British field marshal, played a crucial role during World War II. Commanded the Allied forces during the Second Battle of El Alamein, leading to a decisive victory against Axis troops. Led the 8th Army, contributing significantly to the Allied campaigns in North Africa and Italy. Had a key operational command in the Normandy landings, overseeing British and Commonwealth forces and coordinating strategies with other Allied commanders. Was appointed as the commander of ground forces during Operation Overlord, which was vital for the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation.
Commanded Allied forces at El Alamein
Oversaw British troops in Operation Overlord
Other People Born on November 17th
Jaanus Tamkivi
Estonian politician and leader.
Born
November 17th, 1959 66 years ago
Born in 1959, this individual became an influential figure in Estonian politics. In the early 1990s, played a significant role in the restoration of Estonia's independence from the Soviet Union. Served as a member of the Estonian Parliament and held various governmental positions, contributing to the establishment of key policies. This individual was also involved in promoting European integration and worked on developing Estonia's digital society. Engaged in multiple international initiatives representing Estonia.
Continue ReadingCharles Mackerras
Conductor and oboe player
Born
November 17th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2010 16 years ago — 85 years old
An esteemed oboe player and conductor, contributed significantly to classical music through conducting orchestras and leading opera companies. Had a longstanding association with the Australian Opera and was prominent in international conducting. Received numerous accolades including a Grammy Award and was highly regarded for interpretations of works by composers such as Mozart and Strauss.
Continue ReadingAuberon Waugh
English author and journalist
Born
November 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 16th, 2001 25 years ago — 61 years old
An author and journalist, published a series of novels and essays that satirized British society and politics. Worked as an editor for several publications, including the 'Literary Review'. Developed a distinctive voice in commentary and criticism, often eliciting controversy. Contributed to the landscape of political journalism with engaging and provocative writings.
Continue ReadingMatthew Spring
Footballer with successful club career
Born
November 17th, 1979 46 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a midfielder. Career included spells at clubs like Watford, Luton Town, and Brighton & Hove Albion. Contributed to Luton Town's promotion to the Championship during the 2004-2005 season. Also had notable performances in league and cup competitions.
Continue ReadingAugust Ferdinand Möbius
Mathematician known for Möbius strip
Born
November 17th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1868 157 years ago — 77 years old
A mathematician and astronomer, contributed significantly to geometry. Developed the Möbius strip, a surface with only one side, which became a foundational concept in topology. Published works on number theory and astronomy, including explorations of celestial mechanics. Held a professorship at the University of Leipzig, where influential mathematical principles were taught and advanced.
Continue ReadingJacques MacDonald
French general and military leader
Born
November 17th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1840 185 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a general in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Participated in various military campaigns across Europe under Napoleon Bonaparte, contributing to significant victories. Played a crucial role in the Battle of Austerlitz and the invasion of Russia. Held the title of Duke of Taranto and continued military service after Napoleon's fall, representing France in the royalist army.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 24th
Johan Cruyff
Footballer and coach, three-time Ballon d'Or winner
Born
April 25th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2016 9 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in football, gained recognition as a forward known for exceptional skill and intelligence on the pitch. Played for Ajax and FC Barcelona. Contributed significantly to Ajax's dominance in the 1970s, leading the team to three consecutive European Cups from 1971 to 1973. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, achieving notable success with Barcelona, including the club's first European Cup victory in 1992. Advocated for a style of play that emphasized possession and creativity, influencing future generations of footballers and coaches.
Continue ReadingAlice Guy-Blaché
Film director and pioneer producer
Born
July 1st, 1873 152 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1968 57 years ago — 94 years old
A pioneer in the film industry, directed over 400 films between 1896 and 1920. Established one of the first film studios in the United States. Played a crucial role in the early development of narrative cinema. Worked extensively in both silent and early sound films, developing innovative techniques that influenced future filmmakers.
Continue ReadingInge Lønning
Norwegian theologian and politician
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in Norwegian academia, played significant roles in theological education and political discourse. Served as a professor of theology at the University of Oslo, contributing to the field through numerous publications and lectures. Engaged in politics as a member of the Conservative Party, holding various positions, including serving in the Norwegian Parliament from 1981 to 1985. Advocated for the integration of religious perspectives in public life and was influential in discussions surrounding secularism and its implications in Nordic society.
Continue ReadingJames Rudolph Garfield
American politician and Secretary of the Interior
Born
October 17th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1950 75 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 23rd Secretary of the Interior from 1921 to 1923, overseeing the management of federal lands and resources. Played a significant role in the administration of the National Park Service. Engaged in law practice and public service prior to his appointment, contributing to legal advancements and policy development.
Continue ReadingEnrique Granados
Spanish pianist and composer of Goyescas
Born
July 27th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1916 109 years ago — 48 years old
A Spanish pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the early 20th-century classical music scene. Granados studied under notable composers and gained attention for his piano compositions, which reflected Spanish folk themes. His most prominent work, Goyescas, premiered in 1911 and includes a suite for piano that later inspired an opera adaptation. Granados's life was cut short during World War I when his ship was torpedoed while crossing the English Channel. Despite his brief career, his influence in the realm of Romantic music remains.
Continue ReadingGeorge Kell
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
August 23rd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2009 16 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent American baseball player, best recognized for a distinguished career as a third baseman. Played primarily for the Detroit Tigers and achieved notable success during the 1940s and 1950s. Excelled at batting, which earned selection to the All-Star game multiple times. Transitioned into broadcasting after retirement, providing play-by-play and analysis in various media formats. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1983, solidifying a legacy in the sport.
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