Bill Johnson
American alpine ski racer and champion
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An alpine ski racer achieved significant success in the 1980s, claiming the gold medal in the men's downhill at the 1984 Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo. This victory marked a historic moment as the first American man to win Olympic gold in downhill skiing. Competed on the World Cup circuit, securing several podium finishes and winning the prestigious World Cup downhill title in 1984. His aggressive skiing style and pioneering techniques contributed to the evolution of the sport.
Gold medalist in men's downhill at 1984 Winter Olympics
Won the 1984 World Cup downhill title
Other People Born on March 30th
Warren Beatty
Film director and producer of 'Bonnie and Clyde'
Born
March 30th, 1937 88 years ago
An acclaimed American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, notable for contributions to cinema from the 1960s onward. Directed and starred in the critically acclaimed film 'Bonnie and Clyde', which helped redefine the landscape of American filmmaking. Played significant roles in films such as 'Dick Tracy' and 'Reds', the latter of which earned multiple Academy Awards. Produced and directed various projects that garnered numerous nominations and awards.
Continue ReadingIvan II of Moscow
Grand Prince of Moscow
Born
March 30th, 1326 699 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1359 666 years ago — 33 years old
Grand Prince of Moscow from 1353 to 1359. Strengthened the principality through military campaigns and strategic marriages. Faced external threats from neighboring principalities and the Golden Horde, reaffirming Moscow's influence. Issued decrees to bolster the administration and economy. Established a foothold for future Moscow rulers during a period of territorial expansion.
Continue ReadingJózef Marcinkiewicz
Polish soldier and mathematician
Born
March 30th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 30 years old
A soldier and mathematician, contributed to the field of mathematics through research and teaching. Involved in military activities during World War II, participating in the defense of Poland. Later became an academic, focusing on various mathematical theories, particularly in functional analysis and topology. Marcinkiewicz's work was influential in the development of certain mathematical concepts, and he is remembered for both his military and academic efforts.
Continue ReadingSiegfried Alkan
German composer and pianist
Born
March 30th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1941 84 years ago — 83 years old
A notable composer and pianist from Germany, contributed significantly to the world of classical music. Alkan produced a range of works that include piano solos, chamber music, and orchestral pieces. His compositions often display intricate counterpoint and innovative use of harmony. Alkan's music remained relatively obscure during his lifetime, with several works being rediscovered later on. He had an affinity for literary influences, which is reflected in his thematic choices. His unique style blends elements of Romanticism with technical prowess. The majority of his works were published between 1870 and 1900.
Continue ReadingMarc Davis
Animator and screenwriter for Disney
Born
March 30th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2000 25 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent animator and one of the Nine Old Men at Disney, contributed to several classic animated films. Played a vital role in creating characters and sequences for some of Disney's most beloved productions. Also worked on the Disneyland and Walt Disney World theme parks, designing attractions and characters.
Continue ReadingArnoldo Sartorio
Composer and pianist, known for teaching
Born
March 30th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1936 89 years ago — 83 years old
Born in Germany, this composer, pianist, and teacher contributed significantly to the world of music through both performance and education. His works included compositions that showcased the piano, reflecting the style and trends of his era. In addition to composing, taught many students, imparting a knowledge of music theory and performance techniques. His influence extended to both amateur musicians and professionals, shaping the musical landscape during his time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 21st
Joseph Justus Scaliger
Historian and scholar of the Renaissance
Born
August 5th, 1540 485 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1609 416 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent historian and scholar during the Renaissance, focused on chronology and history. Contributed to the understanding of ancient texts and historical methods. Developed the concept of a universal chronological system, which laid the foundation for modern historical studies. His extensive work on the history of the Roman Empire and the chronology of ancient nations established him as a pivotal figure in the field. Wrote multiple influential texts that were central to the study of history and science, influencing subsequent historians and scholars.
Continue ReadingJackie Wilson
American singer with classic hits
Born
June 9th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1984 41 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent figure in the music industry, this American singer achieved widespread popularity during the 1950s and 1960s. He rose to fame with a unique blend of rhythm and blues, soul, and pop, contributing significantly to the Motown sound. Renowned for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, he became a leading figure in rock and roll music. Many of his songs topped the charts, and he was celebrated for his hit singles. His work continued to influence artists long after his career peaked.
Continue ReadingAhmed Muhtar Pasha
Ottoman general and Grand Vizier
Born
November 1st, 1839 186 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1919 106 years ago — 79 years old
Served as a prominent military leader and held the position of Grand Vizier in the Ottoman Empire. Achieved significant military success, especially during the Balkan Wars. Worked to implement various reforms aimed at modernizing the empire's administration and military structure. Oversaw crucial political and military decisions during a tumultuous period in Ottoman history, contributing to the shaping of the empire’s future.
Continue ReadingEddie Graham
Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
January 15th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 55 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry during the 1970s and 1980s. Founded and promoted several wrestling territories, most notably in Florida. Served as a key figure in the National Wrestling Alliance. Developed numerous wrestling talents who later achieved prominence in the industry.
Continue ReadingSusan Strasberg
American actress and film star
Born
May 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 60 years old
Acclaimed American actress, gained prominence in the late 1950s and 1960s. Rose to fame with the lead role in the film adaptation of 'The Diary of Anne Frank.' Also starred in other significant works including 'The Country Girl' and 'The Manchurian Candidate.' Contributed to the acting community as an instructor at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, bridging generational gaps in performance skills. Involved in various stage productions, including off-Broadway plays. Her career spanned several decades until her passing in 1999.
Continue ReadingLytton Strachey
English writer and literary critic
Born
March 1st, 1880 145 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1932 93 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent English writer and critic, focused on biography and social commentary. Strachey significantly contributed to literary criticism and biographical writing through a fresh approach that combined humor and psychological insight. His most recognized work, 'Eminent Victorians', provided critical examinations of notable figures from the Victorian era, including Cardinal Manning and Thomas Arnold. Strachey also played a key role in the establishment of the Bloomsbury Group, a collective of influential writers and artists in early 20th-century England.
Continue Reading