Bill Willis
American football player, coach, and innovator
Born
October 5th, 1921
104 years ago
Died
November 27th, 2007
17 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent American football player and coach, paved the way for future generations in the sport. Played college football at Ohio State University and became an integral part of the team. Transitioned to professional football, playing as a defensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. Contributed to the team's success during the 1940s and 1950s, earning recognition for skill and leadership. Later served as a coach, influencing players and the game at various levels.
Played for the Cleveland Browns
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977
Other People Born on October 5th
Cédric Villani
A French mathematician and academic, played a significant role in the fields of mathematics, particularly in mathematical analysis and its applications. Villani obtained a PhD in mathematics from the University of Paris-Sud. Worked at various institutions, including serving as a professor at the École normale supérieure. Contributed to the establishment of the Climate and Health Initiative in France. Authored books aimed at making complex mathematical concepts more accessible to the public.
Continue ReadingTornike Shengelia
Born in Georgia, a professional basketball player gained prominence playing for clubs in Europe and representing the national team. Notable achievements include playing for Baskonia in Spain and winning the EuroCup in 2010. Contributed to the national team's efforts in various European Championships and FIBA competitions, showcasing skills as a forward with significant scoring and rebounding abilities. Played in the NBA briefly with the Brooklyn Nets before focusing on a successful career in European leagues.
Continue ReadingNate Thompson
Professional ice hockey player. Played in the NHL for multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, with whom the player won the Stanley Cup in 2012. Also played for the New York Islanders, Tampa Bay Lightning, and other franchises. Demonstrated versatility as a forward, contributing defensively and in penalty-killing roles throughout the career. Participated in a considerable number of games, showcasing resilience and longevity in a physically demanding sport.
Continue ReadingRobert H. Goddard
An American physicist and engineer, made significant contributions to modern rocketry. Earned a Ph.D. in physics from Clark University. Conducted early experiments with liquid-fueled rockets in 1914, leading to the development of the first successful rocket flight using liquid fuel on March 16, 1926, in Auburn, Massachusetts. Authored seminal papers that laid the groundwork for future advancements in space exploration and missile technology. Established a research facility in Roswell, New Mexico, where further rocket tests were conducted, cementing a legacy of innovation in the field of astronautics.
Continue ReadingAlessandro Farnese
Served as a notable cardinal and diplomat during the late Renaissance. Held significant positions within the Catholic Church, including the role of Cardinal of Santa Maria in Portico. Played a crucial role in the politics of the Papal States and in the negotiations with Spain. Engaged in various diplomatic missions that influenced the religious and political landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingMargherita Bontade
A politician in Italy, active in the mid-20th century, contributed significantly to social welfare policies. Played a pivotal role in advocating for women's rights and participated in various legislative efforts to improve social conditions. Involved in the Italian Socialist Party, focusing on issues impacting the working class and women's participation in politics. Advocated for educational reforms and labor rights throughout her career, influencing policies that aimed to enhance social justice.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 27th
Constance
Born into the Hauteville dynasty, held the title of Queen of Sicily from 1194 until death. Married to Henry VI, Holy Roman Emperor, strengthening ties between the Kingdom of Sicily and the Holy Roman Empire. Mother to Frederick II, who became a significant Holy Roman Emperor and King of Sicily. Contributed to the political landscape of her time through her lineage and marriage alliances.
Continue ReadingAlexandre Dumas fils
Born in 1824, Dumas fils was a prominent French novelist and playwright, recognized for his literary contributions, particularly in the realm of drama. He gained acclaim with the play 'La Dame aux Camélias', which tells the poignant story of a tragic love affair between a courtesan and a young nobleman. This work inspired numerous adaptations, including Verdi's opera 'La Traviata'. Dumas fils also engaged in themes surrounding social issues, notably in his works that addressed the plight of women and morality.
Continue ReadingPhilip van Artevelde
A prominent figure in the conflict between Flanders and the French crown during the 14th century. Played a significant role in the civic and political life of Ghent. Instrumental in leading the Flemish during their struggle for independence. Led the army of Ghent during the Battle of Roosebeke, which took place in 1382, resulting in defeat but highlighting the desire for autonomy among the Flemish cities. Remarkably supported the wool trade and sought to harness the political power of urban citizens against feudal lords.
Continue ReadingAndrew Meikle
An engineer from Scotland developed the threshing machine, a significant advancement in agricultural technology. This invention mechanized the process of separating grain from stalks and husks, improving efficiency in harvesting. The design of the threshing machine revolutionized farming practices in the 18th century, contributing to increased crop yields and reduced labor costs. Meikle's work laid the groundwork for future agricultural machinery innovations, solidifying his legacy in agricultural engineering.
Continue ReadingFrancis
Served as Grand Chamberlain in the court of King Francis I of France during the 16th century. Managed the royal household and oversaw various ceremonial functions. Played a key role in the administration of the court and contributed to the organization of state events and royal ceremonies. Worked to maintain the prestige and order of the royal household amidst the complexities of court politics.
Continue ReadingGustavus Conyngham
Born in Ireland, became an influential merchant sea captain before serving as an officer in the Continental Navy during the American Revolutionary War. Played a significant role as a privateer, capturing British vessels. His efforts contributed to the naval operations against British shipping and provided support to the fledgling United States. Notably commanded the ship 'Andrew Doria' in several successful raids.
Continue Reading