Bill W.
Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder
An American activist co-founded Alcoholics Anonymous in 1935 to help individuals overcome alcohol addiction. The organization developed a 12-step program as a framework for recovery, which has become widely adopted in various addiction treatment settings. Alongside another founding member, the activist emphasized the importance of mutual support and shared experiences in the recovery process. The impact of this work led to the establishment of numerous AA groups worldwide, creating a significant network for those seeking help with alcoholism.
Co-founded Alcoholics Anonymous in 1935
Developed the 12-step recovery program
Other People Born on November 26th
Margaret Boden
Computer scientist and psychologist
Born
November 26th, 1936 89 years ago
A pioneer in artificial intelligence and cognitive science, this English scholar extensively researched the intersection of psychology and computer science. Contributions included the development of theories on creativity and the role of AI in understanding intellectual processes. Authored influential works that helped shape the field, particularly in the understanding of human thought processes and machine intelligence. Engaged in establishing the foundations for current AI paradigms.
Continue ReadingLefty Gomez
Baseball pitcher and Hall of Famer
Born
November 26th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1989 37 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent baseball pitcher, played for the New York Yankees from 1930 to 1942. Achieved significant success in Major League Baseball, recognized for contributions to the Yankees' numerous championships during the 1930s and early 1940s. Selected to the All-Star team multiple times and won the American League MVP award in 1934. Contributed to the Yankees' winning five World Series titles and is remembered for his pitching prowess and charismatic personality.
Continue ReadingJames Charles McGuigan
Canadian cardinal and archbishop
Born
November 26th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1974 52 years ago — 79 years old
Ordained as a priest in 1928, led the Archdiocese of Winnipeg as an archbishop from 1939 to 1974. Received the title of cardinal in 1953, establishing significant influence within the Catholic Church in Canada. Active in ecclesiastical leadership and maintained strong community connections throughout tenure. Focused on education and social justice issues within the Church.
Continue ReadingLamecha Girma
Ethiopian middle-distance runner
Born
November 26th, 2000 25 years ago
An accomplished middle-distance runner specializing in the 3000 meters steeplechase. Established a prominent career in athletics, representing Ethiopia in multiple international competitions. Achieved a personal best time of 7:58.68 in the steeplechase, making a notable mark in the sport. Competed at the World Athletics Championships, where a silver medal was earned in 2022. Additionally, participated in the Olympic Games in 2021.
Continue ReadingErnie Coombs
Television host of Mr. Dressup
Born
November 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2001 24 years ago — 73 years old
A television host, known for creating and starring in the children's show 'Mr. Dressup', which aired on CBC Television from 1967 to 1996. The program featured interactive storytelling, puppetry, and arts and crafts, engaging a generation of Canadian children. Coombs utilized various characters, including the iconic puppets Casey and Finnegan, to teach important values and stimulate creativity. His work significantly shaped children's programming in Canada during his active years.
Continue ReadingVerghese Kurien
Founder of Amul dairy cooperative
Born
November 26th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
September 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
An engineer and businessman established a successful dairy cooperative in India. After studying at the Gujarat Agricultural University, focused on improving the dairy sector. Initiated the White Revolution, transforming India into one of the largest milk producers in the world. Advocated for the cooperative model, empowering farmers and establishing a strong supply chain. His leadership at the National Dairy Development Board played a crucial role in the dairy sector's development in India.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 24th
Lord Randolph Churchill
English politician and Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
February 13th, 1849 177 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1895 131 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent English lawyer and politician, served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1886 to 1887. Active in the Conservative Party, played a key role in the political scene of the late 19th century. Advocated for various fiscal policies and reforms. Contributed to debates on budgetary issues and party strategy, influencing the direction of the party during a crucial period in British politics. His tenure at the Exchequer marked significant moments in financial policy.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Ovando Candía
Bolivian General and 56th President
Born
April 6th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1982 44 years ago — 63 years old
Served as the 56th President of Bolivia from 1966 to 1967. Became prominent in Bolivian politics after a military career, rising through the ranks to become a general. His presidency was characterized by efforts to implement reforms in the education and agrarian sectors. Led the nation during a politically turbulent time, with various coups and political instability affecting governance. After leaving office, continued to be involved in politics until his later years.
Continue ReadingFredrik Barth
Anthropologist and academic
Born
December 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2016 10 years ago — 87 years old
A German-Norwegian anthropologist contributed significantly to the field of anthropology, particularly in the study of social organization, ethnicity, and cultural change. Barth's work involved extensive field research, especially among the Pashtun of Afghanistan and the communities of Norway. His influential book, 'Types of Social Organization,' provided important insights into the dynamics of ethnic groups and cultural interactions. Barth's approach to anthropological fieldwork emphasized the significance of social context and the roles of local actors. His academic career included a long tenure at the University of Bergen, where he played a critical role in shaping the anthropology department.
Continue ReadingUğur Mumcu
Turkish investigative journalist
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1993 33 years ago — 51 years old
Pursued a career in journalism primarily focusing on investigative reporting. Worked for several Turkish publications and became prominent for uncovering political corruption and human rights abuses within Turkey. His work often pointed to connections between the government and illegal activities. Shortly before death, was investigating arms trafficking and the deep state in Turkey. Assassinated in a car bombing in 1993, which raised significant national and international concerns regarding freedom of the press.
Continue ReadingGustav Ernesaks
Estonian composer and conductor
Born
1908 118 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1993 33 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent Estonian composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of choral music in Estonia. Ernesaks served as the artistic director of the Estonian Song Festival, emphasizing the importance of national identity through music. His compositions often reflected Estonian folklore and traditional melodies, blending them with modern choral techniques. Ernesaks was active in promoting choral singing and organized numerous performances, ensuring the continuation of Estonian musical heritage.
Continue ReadingEmiliano Mercado del Toro
Puerto Rican-American soldier
Born
August 21st, 1891 134 years ago
Died
January 24th, 2007 19 years ago — 115 years old
Served in the United States Army during World War II. Participated in significant battles such as the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. Achieved the rank of sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. Later served in the Puerto Rican National Guard and continued to advocate for veterans' rights.
Continue Reading