Calvin Griffith
Canadian-American businessman with MLB
A businessman who served as the owner of the Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball from 1961 until 1984. Griffith played a significant role in the franchise's development and relocation from Washington, D.C. to Minnesota, becoming a key figure in securing the team's new stadium. The team won the World Series in 1965 during his ownership. Griffith was known for his operations within the MLB and his influence in the league's expansion efforts in the 1960s.
Owned the Minnesota Twins from 1961 to 1984
Led the franchise's move from Washington, D.C.
Oversaw the Twins' World Series appearance in 1965
Other People Born on December 1st
Nikolai Lobachevsky
Mathematician, founder of non-Euclidean geometry
Born
December 1st, 1792 233 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1856 170 years ago — 63 years old
Contributed significantly to geometry and mathematical theory. Introduced the concept of non-Euclidean geometry, which challenged the long-held Euclidean principles. Published works including 'Geometrical Investigations on the Theory of Parallels', which laid the foundation for modern geometry. His work influenced future mathematicians and scientists, altering the landscape of mathematical thought. Served as a professor and rector at Kazan University, impacting mathematics education in Russia.
Continue ReadingZhu De
Chinese general and politician
Born
December 1st, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1976 50 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1886, a prominent figure in the Chinese Communist Party and a leading general during the Chinese Civil War. Played a crucial role in the Long March and served as a key military leader in various conflicts. Held significant positions in the People's Liberation Army and the government, including 1st Vice Chairman of the People's Republic of China. Contributed to the establishment of the state after the Communist victory in 1949, serving in important roles until his death.
Continue ReadingSarah Fitzgerald
Australian squash champion
Born
December 1st, 1968 57 years ago
A squash player achieved significant success during her professional career. Won the World Squash Championship multiple times, securing titles in 1990 and 1993. Dominated the sport, attaining the World No. 1 ranking for several years. Competed at an international level, representing Australia in various championships and winning numerous other titles throughout her career. Retired from professional play but remains influential in the sport.
Continue ReadingMarco van Ginkel
Dutch footballer and PSV Eindhoven midfielder
Born
December 1st, 1992 33 years ago
Started professional football career at Vitesse in 2010, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Transferred to Chelsea in 2013, where participation in the Premier League occurred. Had loan spells at clubs including AC Milan and PSV Eindhoven, showcasing skills in various competitive leagues. Returned to PSV Eindhoven, playing a key role in their domestic success. Known for central midfield capabilities and strong technical abilities.
Continue ReadingNico Schlotterbeck
Professional footballer and defender
Born
December 1st, 1999 26 years ago
A professional footballer, active in the Bundesliga, contributed significantly as a central defender. Developed through youth systems and made appearances for various clubs before joining SC Freiburg. Transitioned to Borussia Dortmund in 2022, marking a critical phase in the career. Also represented the German national team in international competitions, showcasing defensive skills at a high level.
Continue ReadingLuke McPharlin
Australian Football League player
Born
December 1st, 1981 44 years ago
Played as a key defender in the Australian Football League (AFL), primarily for the Fremantle Dockers. Made his debut in 2001 and established himself as a proficient player in the backline. Contributed to multiple seasons with strong defensive performances and showed leadership qualities on the field. Retired from professional football in 2015 after a notable career, having participated in over 200 matches.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Carl Ferdinand Cori
Biochemist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
December 5th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 87 years old
This individual was a biochemist and pharmacologist who made significant contributions to the understanding of carbohydrate metabolism. Together with his wife, also a biochemist, conducted extensive research on the Cori cycle, describing how glycogen is converted to glucose in the body. Their work advanced knowledge in metabolic processes and laid foundations for further research in biochemistry. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1947 for discoveries in the field of carbohydrate metabolism, this individual positively influenced medical and biological research.
Continue ReadingLarri Thomas
Actress and dancer in Broadway productions
Born
January 23rd, 1932 94 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1932, this American actress and dancer gained recognition for compelling performances in Broadway productions. Her work included significant roles in 'Bells Are Ringing' and 'The Pajama Game.' With a strong background in dance, she contributed to the choreography of various shows, showcasing talent in both acting and movement. Throughout her career, she participated in multiple stage productions, establishing a presence in the theatrical community.
Continue ReadingHerbert Hoover
31st President of the United States
Born
August 10th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1964 61 years ago — 90 years old
An engineer and politician, served as the 31st President of the United States from 1929 to 1933. Oversaw the nation during the onset of the Great Depression. Held the position of Secretary of Commerce under Presidents Harding and Coolidge, promoting policies for economic recovery. After leaving office, engaged in humanitarian efforts, particularly through the Hoover Institute and for European recovery post-World War II.
Continue ReadingRichard Francis Burton
Geographer and explorer of Africa
Born
March 19th, 1821 205 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1890 135 years ago — 69 years old
Accomplishments included extensive exploration of Africa and the Middle East. In 1858, discovered the sources of the Nile River alongside John Hanning Speke. Worked as a soldier and diplomat, notably serving in various missions for the British Empire. Translated 'The Arabian Nights' into English, contributing significantly to Western understanding of Eastern literature. Conducted studies in anthropology and folklore, documenting languages and cultures encountered during travels.
Continue ReadingGeorge Chichester
British noble and politician
Born
February 10th, 1797 229 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1883 142 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1797, served as the 3rd Marquess of Donegall. Held several political positions throughout a prominent career. Engaged in parliamentary duties and contributed to the administration of Belfast and County Antrim. Participated in social and economic reforms during the early to mid-19th century.
Continue ReadingLydia Maria Child
American journalist and abolitionist
Born
February 11th, 1802 224 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1880 145 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent journalist, author, and activist, contributed significantly to social reform in the 19th century. Published a series of influential books, including 'Hobomok' in 1824, which was one of the first novels to depict Native American characters sympathetically. Actively campaigned against slavery and supported women's rights, writing extensively on both subjects. Served as editor for the influential magazine 'The National Anti-Slavery Standard' and was among the first to advocate for the rights of women and children. Her work laid the foundation for the abolitionist movement and she became a respected voice among reformers.
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