Chick Hearn
Sportscaster for the Los Angeles Lakers
An influential American sportscaster, best recognized for a long tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, served as the voice of the team for over four decades. Hearn's career began in the 1940s, and he developed a unique style that included a vast vocabulary of phrases and insights that became integral to Lakers broadcasts. He introduced the concept of the 'three-peat' and popularized the term 'air ball.' Hearn's work contributed to the widespread popularity of basketball in Los Angeles and beyond, with his broadcasts reaching a broad audience. He received numerous awards for his contributions to sports broadcasting, including induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his achievements in sports media.
Provided commentary for the Los Angeles Lakers
Invented phrases like 'three-peat' and 'air ball'
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
Other People Born on November 27th
Mickey Leland
American politician and activist
Born
November 27th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1989 36 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a U.S. Congressman representing Texas's 18th congressional district from 1979 until his death in 1990. Focused on issues affecting the poor and disadvantaged. Played a significant role in advocating for international hunger relief and education reforms. Helped establish the Congressional Black Caucus and was involved in various humanitarian efforts during his tenure.
Continue ReadingFrançoise d'Aubigné
French Royalty and Marquise de Maintenon
Born
November 27th, 1635 390 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1719 306 years ago — 83 years old
Born into a modest family, entered the service of the future king of France as a lady-in-waiting. Became the second wife of Louis XIV after a long relationship, largely hidden from court life. Established a prominent position within the royal court, wielding influence over the king's decisions, particularly in religious matters. Established the Saint-Cyr school for poor girls, promoting education and moral discipline. Strived to reconcile the king's policies with the Jansenist movement, reflecting her strong religious convictions.
Continue ReadingTommy Robinson
Political activist, co-founder of EDL
Born
November 27th, 1982 43 years ago
An activist co-founded the English Defence League (EDL), an organization that organized protests against what it termed the Islamic extremism in the United Kingdom. Robinson became a prominent figure in British politics and media through his advocacy and participation in various demonstrations that addressed issues related to immigration and national identity. In addition to his work with the EDL, participation in media interviews and public speaking engagements contributed to a notable presence in discussions surrounding English nationalism and counter-jihad movements. This individual also faced legal challenges and controversies related to free speech and activism throughout the career.
Continue ReadingAndries Pretorius
South African general during the Boer Wars
Born
November 27th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1853 172 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent Boer commander during the Great Trek and the Anglo-Zulu War. Led forces in the Battle of Blood River in 1838, achieving a decisive victory against the Zulu army. Played a significant role in the formation of the Natalia Republic and later served as its president. Engaged in negotiations regarding land and governance during a transformative period in South African history.
Continue ReadingKing Ferdinand I of Aragon
Monarch and unifier of Spain
Born
November 27th, 1380 645 years ago
Died
1416 610 years ago — 36 years old
Born in 1380, this monarch ruled the Kingdom of Aragon and played a crucial role in the unification of Spain. His marriage to Isabella I of Castile in 1469 united two of the largest kingdoms in Spain, laying the foundation for the complete unification under their grandson, Charles V. The couple sponsored Christopher Columbus' 1492 voyage, leading to the discovery of the Americas. His reign marked significant advancements in both domestic and foreign policy, establishing Spain as a major European power. The introduction of new administrative systems and military reforms contributed to the stability and strength of the united crowns of Castile and Aragon.
Continue ReadingLars Onsager
Chemist & physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 27th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1976 49 years ago — 72 years old
A Norwegian-American chemist and physicist contributed significantly to the field of thermodynamics. Developed the Onsager reciprocal relations, which describe the relationship between fluxes and forces in non-equilibrium thermodynamics. The collaboration of these principles has played a crucial role in understanding transport processes in various scientific domains. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1968 for work on irreversible processes. His academic career included positions at several prestigious institutions, where research in statistical mechanics and physical chemistry advanced the understanding of complex systems.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 5th
Maurice Turnbull
Welsh cricketer and rugby player
Born
March 16th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1944 81 years ago — 38 years old
Played cricket for Wales and Glamorgan County Cricket Club. Represented the Welsh national rugby union team, earning multiple caps. Participated in first-class cricket matches and contributed to the successful seasons of Glamorgan. Regarded for versatility in both cricket and rugby, showing skill in batting and strategic play in rugby.
Continue ReadingRuth Asawa
American sculptor and wire art creator
Born
January 24th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
Born in 1926, this American artist gained recognition for intricate wire sculptures that combine organic forms with mathematical precision. After being influenced by her time in Japan, she developed a unique method of weaving wire, creating hanging sculptures that resemble flowers and other forms found in nature. Her works were featured in numerous exhibitions and are part of major collections, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Besides her artistic contributions, she was an advocate for arts education and played a significant role in promoting art in schools.
Continue ReadingBudd Schulberg
Screenwriter of On the Waterfront
Born
March 27th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2009 16 years ago — 95 years old
An American author and screenwriter produced acclaimed works in film and literature. Best recognized for the screenplay of 'On the Waterfront,' which won an Academy Award, significant contributions include novels exploring the entertainment industry and social issues. Schulberg's experiences in Hollywood informed his writing, providing insights into the complexities of fame and morality. His career spanned several decades, with involvement in writing, producing, and adapting material for the screen, showcasing a commitment to storytelling. He also contributed to television and worked on various projects that highlighted his ability to convey powerful narratives.
Continue ReadingIssey Miyake
Fashion designer and innovator
Born
April 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2022 3 years ago — 84 years old
A leading figure in the Japanese fashion industry, an innovative fashion designer revolutionized clothing design with technology and sculptural forms. Established the Miyake Design Studio in 1970, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. Developed the iconic Pleats Please collection, showcasing patented pleating techniques. Contributed designs for the 1993 Osaka Expo and served as a costume designer for various performances, including works in theater and dance.
Continue ReadingStanislaus Hosius
Polish cardinal and theologian
Born
May 5th, 1504 521 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1579 446 years ago — 75 years old
Born on May 5, 1504, this prominent figure served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church and played a significant role during the Reformation. He became a bishop in warmia and was pivotal in establishing the Counter-Reformation in Poland. Active in various councils, he was instrumental in promoting Catholic doctrine against Protestantism. His writings contributed to theological discourse, and his efforts in church reform helped shape the religious landscape in the region.
Continue ReadingChavela Vargas
Singer-songwriter and actress
Born
April 17th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2012 13 years ago — 93 years old
Born in Costa Rica, this artist became a significant figure in the Mexican music scene, blending traditional ranchera with evocative expression. Gained popularity during the mid-20th century, performing in bars and events across Mexico. Achieved acclaim for a distinctive style that transcended gender norms, captivating audiences with emotional renditions and powerful performances. Collaborated with various artists and appeared in films, including 'Frida', which introduced her to international audiences. Her music, deeply rooted in personal experiences and cultural identity, resonated with many, and she became an iconic voice in Latin American music.
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