Cornelius Vanderbilt

Business magnate and philanthropist

Cornelius Vanderbilt - Business magnate and philanthropist
Born

May 27th, 1794
231 years ago

Died

January 4th, 1877
148 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American businessman, he made significant contributions to the shipping and railroad industries during the 19th century. Starting with a ferry service, amassed wealth through shipping by the time of the Civil War. Expanded into railroads, acquiring and consolidating lines, ultimately creating one of the largest railroad networks in the United States. Established the Vanderbilt University in Tennessee through philanthropy, leaving a lasting legacy in education.

Founded the New York Central Railroad

Built a shipping empire with a fleet of ships

Established Vanderbilt University

Other People Born on May 27th

Henry Parkes

Politician and Premier of New South Wales
Born
May 27th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1896 129 years ago — 80 years old

A businessman and politician, served as the 7th Premier of New South Wales, holding office multiple times during the late 19th century. Instrumental in the movement for the federation of Australia, contributing significantly to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia. Advocated for social reforms and the expansion of public education. Positioned as a key figure in Australian politics, particularly in New South Wales.

Continue Reading

Uładzimir Žyłka

Belarusian poet and translator
Born
May 27th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1900, this individual was a prominent Belarusian poet and translator. He contributed significantly to Belarusian literature, focusing on national themes and cultural identity. His works included poetry that reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Belarusian people, often using traditional forms and rich imagery. In addition to writing original poetry, he translated various works from other languages into Belarusian, enhancing the accessibility of world literature for his audience. His literary contributions are regarded as essential to the development of modern Belarusian literature.

Continue Reading

John D. Vanderhoof

American banker and 37th Governor
Born
May 27th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old

A banker and politician, served as the 37th Governor of Colorado from 1973 to 1975. Managed various banking institutions prior to entering politics. Worked on economic policies and served on several governmental boards, contributing to state governance and fiscal responsibility. Involved in local and state community service efforts throughout the political career, emphasizing the importance of education and infrastructure development in Colorado.

Continue Reading

Christopher Lee

English actor in horror films
Born
May 27th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old

An English actor gained prominence in the horror film genre, particularly during the mid-20th century. Became widely recognized for roles in films such as 'Horror of Dracula' and 'The Wicker Man.' Later, played Saruman in the 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' film trilogies, achieving acclaim across multiple generations. Also had a successful career as a recording artist, releasing several heavy metal albums in later years. In addition to acting, had a notable presence in television and radio productions.

Continue Reading

Yorgos Lanthimos

Greek film director of 'The Favourite'
Born
May 27th, 1973 52 years ago

A Greek film, video, and theatre director, producer, and screenwriter specializing in unconventional narratives and surrealistic themes. Achievements include directing films that have garnered critical acclaim and significant awards. Notable works include 'The Favourite', which received numerous Academy Award nominations and won Best Actress for Olivia Colman, and 'The Lobster', which won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. A unique approach to storytelling and character development marked his contribution to contemporary cinema.

Continue Reading

Julia Ward Howe

Poet and songwriter, wrote Battle Hymn
Born
May 27th, 1819 206 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1910 115 years ago — 91 years old

An influential poet and songwriter, contributed significantly to American literature and social movements. Authored the 'Battle Hymn of the Republic,' which became a rallying song for the Union Army during the Civil War. Engaged in early women's rights activism and was involved in the abolitionist movement. Established the Mother's Day tradition in the United States, promoting a day of peace and social activism.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 4th

Erwin Schrödinger

Physicist, Nobel Prize winner 1933
Born
August 12th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1961 64 years ago — 73 years old

A physicist, contributions included formulating the wave equation that describes the wave function in quantum mechanics. Schrödinger's equation became fundamental in understanding the behavior of atomic and subatomic systems. He wrote the influential book 'What Is Life?', exploring the connections between physics and biology. His work laid the groundwork for the developments in quantum theory. In 1933, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on wave mechanics and its application to atomic structure.

Continue Reading

Donald Campbell

Racing driver and speed record holder
Born
March 23rd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1967 58 years ago — 45 years old

A racing driver focused on land and water speed records, achieved significant successes during the 1950s and 1960s. Set and broke multiple world speed records on both water and land, utilizing vehicles like the Bluebird K7 and Bluebird CN7. Tragically died in an accident while attempting a world water speed record in 1967.

Continue Reading

Marais Viljoen

South African politician and state president
Born
1915 110 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2007 18 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the 5th State President of South Africa from 1978 to 1979. Held notable positions in the political landscape of the country, including Leader of the House in Parliament and Minister of Foreign Affairs. His administration focused on issues relating to apartheid policies and international relations during a turbulent period in South African history.

Continue Reading

Paul Chambers

Bassist and composer for jazz music
Born
April 22nd, 1935 90 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1969 56 years ago — 33 years old

A prominent jazz double bassist and composer, contributed to the development of the jazz genre in the 1950s and 1960s. Played with many notable musicians and was a key member of the Miles Davis Quintet. His work on the album 'Kind of Blue' is highly regarded in jazz music history. Chambers showcased exceptional skill and creativity, influencing future generations of bassists. His improvisational techniques and harmonic understanding were integral to the sound of jazz during this era.

Continue Reading

Georges Prêtre

Orchestral and opera conductor
Born
August 14th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2017 8 years ago — 92 years old

An orchestral and opera conductor, conducted prestigious orchestras and opera houses around the world. Served as music director for the Paris Opera and led notable performances at La Scala, the Vienna State Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera. Recognized for conducting works by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Strauss. Received accolades for skillful interpretations and vibrant conducting style.

Continue Reading

Mohammad Ali Jauhar

Indian Muslim activist and leader
Born
December 10th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1931 94 years ago — 52 years old

This individual was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement and a leading member of the All-India Muslim League. He played a significant role in advocating for Muslim rights and was a strong proponent of the Khilafat Movement, which sought to protect the Ottoman Caliphate. His efforts included organizing protests and rallies against British colonial rule. In addition to political activism, this figure was involved in journalism and edited several publications that promoted nationalism. This individual became a key voice for Muslims during a critical period in Indian history.

Continue Reading