Demetrius Vikelas
Greek businessman and philanthropist
A businessman and philanthropist from Greece, contributed significantly to various causes, particularly in education and cultural development. Served as the first President of the International Olympic Committee from 1894 until 1896. Played a crucial role in the revival of the modern Olympic Games held in Athens in 1896. His efforts were characterized by a commitment to fostering athleticism and international cooperation through sports.
Served as the first President of the International Olympic Committee
Played a key role in the revival of the modern Olympic Games in Athens
Other People Born on February 15th
Šimon Nemec
Slovak ice hockey player with NHL success
Born
February 15th, 2004 21 years ago
Born on February 15, 2004, this athlete gained recognition in ice hockey, showcasing significant talent at a young age. Drafted second overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2022 NHL Draft, he quickly established himself as a promising defenseman. His skills on the ice have led to participation in international competitions, including representing Slovakia in the IIHF World Junior Championships. The player has also made an impact in European leagues, contributing to the development of ice hockey in Slovakia.
Continue ReadingRita Jeptoo
Elite Kenyan marathon runner
Born
February 15th, 1981 44 years ago
Born in 1981, this marathon runner achieved significant success in long-distance running events. Achievements include victories at major marathons and an impressive record in international competitions. The runner set a personal best time of 2:19:57 at the Boston Marathon in 2014. Competed at the World Championships, securing podium finishes that contributed to career acclaim.
Continue ReadingManuel Lanzini
Argentine footballer with West Ham United
Born
February 15th, 1993 32 years ago
This Argentine footballer began his career in River Plate's youth system before joining the senior team. After a successful loan spell at UAE club Al Jazira, he returned to Europe with West Ham United, where he showcased his skills in the Premier League. He also contributed significantly to the Argentine national team, featuring prominently in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingValeri Bojinov
Bulgarian footballer and forward
Born
February 15th, 1986 39 years ago
A Bulgarian footballer played as a forward, beginning professional career in 2002. Transitioned to the senior team of his local club, CSKA Sofia, where performance led to a move to several European clubs. Played for Fiorentina and Manchester City in top leagues. Gained recognition for contributions to the national team, earning over 40 caps and participating in major tournaments.
Continue ReadingMark Canha
Baseball player, Oakland Athletics
Born
February 15th, 1989 36 years ago
Played Major League Baseball primarily for the Oakland Athletics. Made his MLB debut in 2015 after being drafted by the Miami Marlins in 2010. Recognized for versatility, Canha played both outfield and first base during his career. In 2020, Canha achieved a career-high on-base percentage of .387 while contributing to the team's offensive lineup.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey Kondogbia
Professional footballer, Valencia CF
Born
February 15th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in Central African Republic, a professional footballer began a career in Europe with a focus in midfield roles. Initial steps in professional football occurred at Lens, where impressive performances led to a transfer to Sevilla FC. Later joined AS Monaco and contributed to winning the Ligue 1 title in the 2016–17 season. Subsequently signed by Inter Milan, played in Serie A before transferring to Valencia CF in La Liga. Represented the national team and partook in international competitions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 20th
Geeta Dutt
Indian playback singer and actress
Born
November 23rd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1972 53 years ago — 41 years old
Celebrated for contributions to Indian playback singing, achieved widespread recognition during the 1950s and 1960s. Frequently collaborated with prominent music directors like Sachin Dev Burman and Hemant Kumar. Major works include iconic songs in films such as 'Pyaasa' and 'Baazi'. Also performed in various stage productions, showcasing versatility in both music and acting.
Continue ReadingRené Bazin
French author and academic of literature
Born
December 26th, 1853 171 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1932 93 years ago — 78 years old
This individual was a prominent French author and academic, recognized for contributions to literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a member of the Académie Française, this figure achieved prominence through a range of works that explored themes of nature, spirituality, and social issues. Works included 'L'Invasion' and 'Notre-Dame de Paris', which showcased narrative depth and literary skill. In addition to writing, served in academia, influencing a generation of writers and readers.
Continue ReadingJean Ingelow
English poet and author of 'Divided'
Born
March 17th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1897 128 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1820 in England, a poet and author contributed significantly to English literature during the Victorian era. Ingelow published her first collection of poems, 'A Rhymed Dialogue,' in 1863. Her most notable work, 'Divided,' achieved widespread recognition and popularity, reflecting themes of love and nature. Ingelow also wrote novels, children's fiction, and stories for Young Ladies, displaying versatility in literary forms. Her poetry often featured intricate rhythms and vivid imagery, appealing to a wide audience of readers. In the latter part of the 19th century, she gained a reputation as a prominent literary figure, receiving accolades from her contemporaries.
Continue ReadingJames Doohan
Actor and veteran, best known as Scotty
Born
March 3rd, 1920 105 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 85 years old
Born in Canada, a military career began during World War II, serving in the Royal Canadian Artillery and participating in the D-Day invasion. After the war, transitioned to acting, gaining prominence for the role of Montgomery Scott, also known as Scotty, in the television series Star Trek, which premiered in 1966 and became a cultural phenomenon. Doohan reprised this role in several Star Trek films and contributed to the franchise's legacy. In addition to acting, he was involved in various voiceover projects and public appearances related to the series, attracting a loyal fanbase.
Continue ReadingBernhard Riemann
Mathematician and creator of Riemann surfaces
Born
September 17th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1866 159 years ago — 39 years old
A mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of analysis, differential geometry, and number theory. Riemann introduced concepts such as Riemann surfaces and Riemannian geometry, which laid the groundwork for modern mathematical analysis and theoretical physics. The Riemann Hypothesis, a conjecture regarding the distribution of prime numbers, remains one of the most important unsolved problems in mathematics. Riemann's methods also influenced later developments in complex analysis and topology.
Continue ReadingJames Alexander Calder
Canadian politician and educator
Born
September 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1956 69 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the Canadian Minister of Militia and Defence from 1921 to 1926. Contributed to military and educational reforms during tenure. Advocated for improved training and mobilization of Canadian forces. Engaged in various initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of the military.
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