Betty Cuthbert
Australian sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
April 20th, 1938
87 years ago
Died
August 6th, 2017
7 years ago — 79 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Australia
Links & References
Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting events. Achieved prominence at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, winning three gold medals. Dominated the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4x100 meter relay. Set world records in various events during the late 1950s. Retired from competition after the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and later contributed to sports as a coach.
Won gold in 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay at the 1956 Olympics
Set multiple world records in sprinting events
Other People Born on April 20th
Prince Erik
Born in 1889, served as Duke of Västmanland. Engaged in royal duties, supported various charitable causes, and participated in cultural activities. Participated in several official events representing the Swedish royal family.
Continue ReadingRenata of Lorraine
Born in 1544, served as Duchess consort of Bavaria through marriage to Duke Albrecht V. Contributed to the cultural and political landscape of the time, linking the Lorraine and Bavarian dynasties. Played a significant role in fostering relationships between noble families. Renata's marriage helped strengthen alliances during a time of political intrigue in Europe. Later, became a figure in philanthropic efforts, particularly in the context of her family’s influence.
Continue ReadingMarie-Antoinette de Geuser
Born in 1889, a French mystic gained recognition for spiritual teachings and writings. Engaged in various esoteric practices, she attracted followers interested in spirituality and mysticism. Through workshops and lectures, she disseminated ideas related to personal transformation and spiritual awakening. Published texts that delved into mystical traditions and personal experiences have been influential among her contemporaries and later generations. Her legacy remains in the continued exploration of mysticism in modern spiritual movements.
Continue ReadingAlan Arnett McLeod
Served as a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. Demonstrated bravery in action, notably during a mission over enemy lines where attacked by German aircraft. Successfully engaged and defeated multiple enemy fighters despite being heavily outnumbered. Awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry, becoming one of the youngest recipients of this honor during the war.
Continue ReadingDaniel Chester French
An American sculptor recognized for creating significant works in the field of sculpture. French's most famous work is the seated statue of Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial located in Washington D.C. He also produced many other notable pieces, including statues of notable figures and allegorical representations. French was a prominent figure in American sculpture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and his artistry contributed to the memorialization of key historical events and figures.
Continue ReadingPaul Poiret
A prominent French fashion designer, revolutionized women’s fashion in the early 20th century. Introduced the 'liberated woman' style, moving away from the corseted silhouette. Founded the House of Poiret, which became influential in introducing more relaxed and artistic designs. Created iconic garments such as the 'lampshade' dress and the 'harem' pants. Renowned for bold use of color and exotic influences, Poiret’s designs were celebrated for their elegance and innovation. His work laid the groundwork for modern fashion design, influencing future generations of designers.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 6th
Tony Lazzeri
Played professional baseball primarily as a second baseman in Major League Baseball. Had a significant tenure with the New York Yankees from 1926 to 1937, contributing to multiple championship teams. Also served as a manager in the minor leagues after his playing career. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991 for contributions to the sport.
Continue ReadingAndré Weil
A French mathematician made significant contributions to number theory, algebraic geometry, and the foundations of mathematics. Founded the Institute for Advanced Study's mathematics department in Princeton. Contributed to the development of algebraic geometry and co-developed the Weil conjectures, which provided important links between algebraic geometry and topology. Played a crucial role in the advancement of mathematics through rigorous theory and proof.
Continue ReadingDorothy Tutin
An accomplished English actress, she gained prominence in theater and film during the 20th century. Tutin received critical acclaim for her performances in productions such as "The Royal Family" and "The Happy Breed." She also appeared in films like "The Importance of Being Earnest" and portrayed significant roles in various Shakespearean plays. Her talent and dedication to the craft earned her a place in the pantheon of British acting.
Continue ReadingMarwan II
A member of the Umayyad dynasty, held the position of caliph from 744 to 750. Oversaw the military campaigns during the latter part of the Umayyad Caliphate, including efforts to maintain control over the Muslim territories. Faced significant challenges from emerging rival factions, particularly the Abbasids. The period was marked by internal strife and civil discord within the caliphate. Eventually defeated at the Battle of the Zab in 750, leading to the fall of the Umayyad dynasty in the eastern territories. Fled and was later executed, representing the end of Umayyad rule in the region.
Continue ReadingJohn Woodland Hastings
A prominent figure in biochemistry, focused on circadian rhythms and their effects on biological processes. Conducted significant research on the role of light in regulating sleep patterns and metabolic functions. Contributed to the understanding of how external light influences hormonal cycles in organisms. Held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, influencing generations of researchers. Published numerous papers and held patents related to biological rhythms and photoperception.
Continue ReadingJohn Mason Neale
An English priest and scholar, contributed significantly to hymnody in the 19th century. Neale translated and composed numerous hymns, reflecting theological depth and musicality. His notable work includes the hymn 'Good Christian Men, Rejoice.' He served as a priest in various capacities and was dedicated to the welfare of the poor and the education of children. Neale also founded the Sisterhood of St. Margaret, advocating for social reform and religious devotion.
Continue Reading