Britton Chance
Biologist and Olympic sailor
Contributions to the fields of biology and physiology included work on the physical properties of muscle tissue and cellular metabolism. Developed a unique method for measuring oxygen consumption in living cells. Competed as a sailor in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, representing the United States. Published numerous scientific papers that advanced understanding of enzymology and biochemistry.
Analyzed muscle tissue and metabolism
Sailed for the United States in the 1952 Olympics
Other People Born on July 24th
Simón Bolívar
Venezuelan military leader and politician
Born
July 24th, 1783 242 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1830 195 years ago — 47 years old
Born in Venezuela, this figure played a crucial role in the Latin American independence movement against Spanish colonial rule. He led military campaigns across several countries, including Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, achieving victories that established independence for those nations. A key advocate for creating a unified Latin America, he also served as the second president of Venezuela. His vision extended to the establishment of a confederate union among the liberated countries, although this idea faced significant challenges.
Continue ReadingJun'ichirō Tanizaki
Japanese author and literary figure
Born
July 24th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1965 60 years ago — 79 years old
Tanizaki was a prominent Japanese author whose works explored themes of beauty and cultural identity. Writing during the 20th century, significant contributions included novels, essays, and translations. The literary style often reflected the tension between traditional Japanese aesthetics and Western influences. Received the Akutagawa Prize in 1929 for the short novel 'Shunkinshū'. Important works included 'The Makioka Sisters', which depicted a declining upper-class family, and 'In Praise of Shadows', an essay that examined Japanese aesthetics.
Continue ReadingChief Dan George
Canadian actor and author, Little Big Man
Born
July 24th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1981 44 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1899, a Canadian actor and author gained recognition for roles portraying Indigenous characters in film and theater. Career highlights included a prominent role in the film 'Little Big Man,' which showcased the experiences of Native Americans. In addition to acting, contributed to the arts through poetry and writing. Played a significant role in promoting Indigenous rights and culture.
Continue ReadingEugene J. Martin
American painter and abstract artist
Born
July 24th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 67 years old
An American painter specialized in abstract expressionism. Born in 1938, this artist extensively explored vibrant colors and innovative forms throughout their career. Influenced by jazz music, works often reflected dynamic rhythms and movement. Participated in numerous exhibitions and contributed to the art community with a unique style that combined traditional techniques with contemporary themes.
Continue ReadingErnest Bloch
Composer of 'Schelomo' and educator
Born
July 24th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1959 66 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Switzerland and later becoming an American citizen, a significant career in music composition and education was established. Studies at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels and the École Normale de Musique in Paris laid the foundation. Contribution to American music included teaching at various institutions. Major compositions included 'Schelomo', 'Concerto Grosso No. 1', and 'Spanish Night'. Bloch's work often reflected Jewish themes and traditions, integrating them into classical music. Influences included aspects of folk music, and a commitment to expressing cultural identity through composition marked the overall artistic output.
Continue ReadingHeinz
Singer-songwriter and bass player
Born
July 24th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 58 years old
Born in Germany and later moving to England, a musician gained recognition in the music scene during the 1960s and 1970s. With a blend of pop and rock influences, significant contributions came through songwriting and performing. The most notable work includes the song 'Just Like Eddie,' which became a hit. An iconic bass player, collaborations with other artists expanded reach and creativity in the industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 16th
Ian Craig
Australian cricketer and captain
Born
June 12th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2014 11 years ago — 79 years old
An Australian cricketer, played as a batsman and served as a captain of the national team. Made his Test debut in 1957 and became one of the youngest Test captains at the age of 23. Played for New South Wales and participated in a single One Day International match in 1975. Contributed to the development of cricket in Australia through his coaching and mentoring roles after retirement.
Continue ReadingLouis Riel
Canadian Métis politician and leader
Born
October 22nd, 1844 181 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1885 140 years ago — 41 years old
A central figure in the history of Canada, this individual played a significant role in the political landscape of the Métis people. Riel's leadership was crucial during the Red River and North-West Rebellions, advocating for the rights and land claims of the Métis. After leading the Red River Rebellion in 1869-1870, he helped establish the province of Manitoba. His actions positioned him as a political leader of the Métis. After exile, he returned in 1884 to lead the North-West Rebellion, which sought to address grievances against the Canadian government. Riel faced trial and was ultimately executed in 1885, becoming a controversial figure in Canadian history.
Continue ReadingChet Powers
Singer-songwriter of "Get Together"
Born
October 7th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1994 31 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent singer-songwriter and guitarist from the United States, primarily associated with the folk music revival of the 1960s. Powers gained recognition for writing and performing songs that became anthems of the era. His most significant work includes the song "Get Together," which has been covered by several artists and became a symbol of peace and unity during the counterculture movement. Powers also performed as part of the band The Intentions and contributed to various other musical projects throughout his career, capturing the spirit of the times through his music.
Continue ReadingHenri-Gustave Joly de Lotbinière
French-Canadian politician, Premier of Quebec
Born
December 5th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1908 117 years ago — 78 years old
Became a prominent lawyer and politician in Quebec, serving as the 4th Premier from 1878 to 1879. Contributed to the development of the Liberal Party in Quebec. Oversaw significant political discussions during his tenure, focusing on issues affecting the province. Pursued various reforms aimed at addressing local governance and administration.
Continue ReadingIbn Arabi
Andalusian Sufi mystic and poet
Born
July 25th, 1165 860 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1240 785 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1165 in Andalusia, a prominent Sufi mystic, poet, and philosopher flourished during the Islamic Golden Age. His philosophical teachings, particularly regarding the concept of unity of being, influenced Islamic mysticism and metaphysics significantly. Many works, including the influential 'Fusus al-Hikam' and 'Tarjuman al-Ashwaq', explore spiritual enlightenment, love, and the essence of God. The scope of his writings encompasses metaphysical poetry and profound philosophical texts. Later generations revered him as a central figure in Sufism, contributing extensively to the tradition's literature and thought.
Continue ReadingSergei Magnitsky
Lawyer; whistleblower on corruption
Born
April 8th, 1972 53 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2009 16 years ago — 37 years old
A lawyer and accountant, played a key role in exposing large-scale corruption involving government officials and law enforcement in Russia. Detained for nearly a year after filing a complaint against the alleged fraud, died in custody under suspicious circumstances. His death sparked international outrage and calls for justice, leading to significant changes in how human rights abuses are addressed in Russia.
Continue Reading