Bill Johnson

American alpine ski racer and champion

Bill Johnson - American alpine ski racer and champion
Born

March 30th, 1960
65 years ago

Died

January 21st, 2016
9 years ago — 55 years old

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

Albert Pierrepoint

English executioner of notable prisoners
Born
March 30th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 87 years old

Served as an executioner in the United Kingdom, overseeing the execution of numerous individuals. Worked primarily during the mid-20th century, becoming the chief executioner for England. Pierrepoint administered capital punishment through hanging and was involved in high-profile executions during and after World War II. With a career spanning over two decades, he became one of the most recognized executioners in British history, reflecting on the morality and ethics of capital punishment in later life.

Continue Reading

Ron Johnston

English geographer and academic
Born
March 30th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 79 years old

Born in England, a significant figure in geography served as a professor and published extensively on urban geography and historical geography. Contributed to the understanding of the spatial dynamics of cities and their development. Engaged in various research projects and mentored numerous students, influencing the field of geography through academic rigor and collaboration. Held various positions in academic institutions, including leadership roles and editorial responsibilities for geographical journals.

Continue Reading

Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj

Mongolian politician, 4th President
Born
March 30th, 1963 62 years ago

Served as the 4th President of Mongolia from 2013 to 2017. Previously held the position of Prime Minister twice, first from 2004 to 2006 and then from 2012 to 2013. Worked as a prominent journalist and an advocate for democracy and political reform. Played a significant role in transitioning Mongolia towards a democratic government after the fall of communism. Served as the chairman of the Democratic Party and was instrumental in its electoral successes.

Continue Reading

Shi Jingtang

Emperor of Later Jin dynasty
Born
March 30th, 892 1133 years ago
Died
July 28th, 942 1082 years ago — 50 years old

Ruled as the emperor of the Later Jin dynasty from 936 until his death in 942. Ascended the throne after overthrowing the Later Tang dynasty, which marked a significant transition in Chinese history during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. His reign is characterized by military maneuvers and consolidation of power, as well as struggles against rival states. Shi established the dynasty as a key player in regional politics, although it faced numerous challenges from other factions.

Continue Reading

Chris Sale

Baseball pitcher for the Boston Red Sox
Born
March 30th, 1989 36 years ago

This American baseball player is a left-handed pitcher who gained recognition for his dominant performances in Major League Baseball. Drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 2010, significant early success included multiple All-Star selections and leading the league in strikeouts. In 2016, achieved the unique distinction of recording a league-best 17 wins. Transferred to the Boston Red Sox in 2016, contributing to the team’s World Series championship in 2018. Acclaimed for an unorthodox delivery, rapid fastball, and exceptional slider, he set numerous franchise records during his tenure. His prowess on the mound earned accolades and respect throughout the league, solidifying a reputation as one of the premier pitchers in contemporary baseball.

Continue Reading

Richard Hutten

Dutch furniture designer and innovator
Born
March 30th, 1967 58 years ago

A furniture designer active since the 1990s, this individual creates contemporary designs that combine functionality with playful aesthetics. Work includes collaborations with various international brands and participation in design exhibitions worldwide. Contributions to the design world include both innovative pieces and conceptual installations, showcasing a commitment to integrating design into everyday life.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 21st

Emiliano Sala

Argentine footballer, Cardiff City striker
Born
1990 35 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2019 6 years ago — 29 years old

An Argentine footballer played as a striker. Minor leagues in Argentina included clubs like San Martín de Progreso and also included a successful stint at FC Nantes in France. Transferred to Cardiff City in January 2019 for a club-record fee. Tragically died in an aviation accident shortly after the transfer.

Continue Reading

Paul Quarrington

Canadian author and playwright with acclaim
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2010 15 years ago — 57 years old

An influential author and playwright, produced a variety of literary works that explored Canadian culture and identity. Wrote the novels 'King Leary' and 'The Ravine', both of which received critical attention. In addition to fiction, created compelling plays and contributed to the music scene as a guitarist and composer. Achievements included winning the Governor General's Award for Fiction, which recognized significant contributions to Canadian literature. Active in various literary circles, fostered a community of writers and artists throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Božena Němcová

Czech author and poet, 'Babička'
Born
1820 205 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1862 163 years ago — 42 years old

An influential Czech author and poet, this individual was a leading figure in Czech literature during the 19th century. The literary work 'Babička' depicted rural life in Bohemia and has become a staple of Czech literature. Themes of family, tradition, and nature were prevalent in works, resonating with many readers of the time. Active in a time of national revival, the individual contributed to the Czech cultural and literary landscape. Besides writing, efforts to promote Czech language and culture also marked this person's contributions. Several stories captured the essence of Czech identity and served as a rallying point during a period of heightened national sentiment.

Continue Reading

Vladimir Lenin

Russian revolutionary and political leader
Born
April 22nd, 1870 155 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1924 101 years ago — 53 years old

This individual was a Russian lawyer and politician who played a pivotal role in the establishment of Soviet power following the Russian Revolution of 1917. He served as the leader of the Bolshevik Party and later as head of government of Soviet Russia and the Soviet Union. After leading the October Revolution, he implemented policies that laid the foundation for the Soviet state, including the nationalization of industry and land redistribution. His writings on Marxism and political theory influenced many around the world and continue to be studied today.

Continue Reading

Wilhelm Matthias Naeff

Swiss politician and legal expert
Born
1802 223 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1881 144 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Switzerland. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the mid to late 19th century. Contributed to various legal reforms and held influential positions within the Swiss government. Engaged in matters of civil rights and governance, shaping legislative processes in the region.

Continue Reading

Charlie Gehringer

Baseball player and manager
Born
May 11th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 89 years old

An American baseball player and manager, this individual played for the Detroit Tigers from 1924 to 1942. Recognized as a skilled second baseman, he was a key member of the Tigers team that won the World Series in 1945. In addition to his playing career, he served as the team's manager in the mid-1950s. His contributions to baseball earned him induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1949. Gehringer's proficiency at the plate led to a career batting average of .320 and he established several records during his tenure.

Continue Reading