Dimitrios Gounaris
Greek politician and Prime Minister
Served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1920 to 1921. Held a law degree and was involved in Greek politics for several years. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the interwar period. His tenure was marked by political instability and challenges related to the aftermath of World War I. After leaving office, continued to influence Greek politics until his eventual political decline.
Served as Prime Minister of Greece
Participated in the political landscape post-World War I
Other People Born on January 5th
Florence King
American journalist and memoirist
Born
January 5th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2016 10 years ago — 80 years old
A journalist and memoirist authored several works reflecting on Southern life and culture. Gained recognition for sharp wit and insightful commentary. Contributed to various publications and achieved acclaim for personal essays and critiques. Explored themes of identity, class, and social norms in written works, establishing a distinctive voice in American literature.
Continue ReadingChuck McKinley
American tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
January 5th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent tennis player during the 1960s, gained recognition for achievements in both singles and doubles. Won the men's singles title at Wimbledon in 1963, defeating the Australian player Rod Laver in the final. Competed for the United States in the Davis Cup, securing the championship in 1963 and contributing to victories through both singles and doubles matches. After retiring from professional tennis, took part in coaching and promoting the sport.
Continue ReadingMary Gaudron
Australian lawyer and judge, High Court
Born
January 5th, 1943 83 years ago
A prominent Australian lawyer and judge, served as a judge on the High Court of Australia from 1987 until retirement in 2003. First woman appointed to the High Court, contributing significantly to the legal landscape of Australia. Prior to this role, served as an attorney-general and held various legal positions, shaping civil liberties and administrative law.
Continue ReadingChris Stein
Guitarist and songwriter for Blondie
Born
January 5th, 1950 76 years ago
A guitarist and songwriter, notable for founding the band Blondie. The band was a prominent figure in the punk and new wave music scenes during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Released the iconic album 'Parallel Lines' in 1978, featuring hit singles such as 'Heart of Glass' and 'One Way or Another'. Continued to work in music as a producer and collaborated with various artists throughout the years.
Continue ReadingLuke Bailey
Rugby League Player, Australian Representative
Born
January 5th, 1980 46 years ago
A rugby league player, achieved recognition in the National Rugby League (NRL) primarily as a prop. Played for the Gold Coast Titans and St. George Illawarra Dragons, representing New South Wales and Australia at the international level. Participated in significant tournaments including the Rugby League World Cup and State of Origin series, contributing to various team successes.
Continue ReadingShah Jahan
Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 434 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 360 years ago — 74 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 15th
John Amos Comenius
Czech bishop and educational reformer
Born
March 28th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1670 355 years ago — 78 years old
A significant figure in education, emphasized the importance of systematic and universal education. Developed innovative teaching methods and progressive ideas that formed a foundation for modern pedagogical practices. Advocated for education that included natural sciences, arts, and moral instruction. Wrote numerous works, including 'Didactica Magna', which presented his educational theories and vision for a comprehensive schooling system.
Continue ReadingFrank Chapman
Ornithologist and author of key texts
Born
June 12th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1945 80 years ago — 81 years old
An American ornithologist, photographer, and author contributed significantly to the study of birds and their habitats. Efforts involved extensive field research and the promotion of bird conservation. Chapman served as curator of birds at the American Museum of Natural History. Publications include significant works such as 'The Bird-Lore' magazine and 'The Handbook of Birds of Eastern North America', providing comprehensive guides for bird identification. Chapman was a founding member of the Audubon Society, advocating for the protection of birds and their environments.
Continue ReadingÉmile Durkheim
French sociologist and philosopher
Born
April 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1917 108 years ago — 59 years old
A foundational figure in sociology and social psychology, contributed significantly to the establishment of sociology as a formal discipline. Developed theories on social order, structures, and functions within society. Introduced concepts such as anomie and collective consciousness. Published key works including 'The Division of Labor in Society', 'Suicide', and 'The Elementary Forms of Religious Life'. Helped to shape the methods of sociological study, emphasizing the importance of empirical research and statistical analysis.
Continue ReadingElmer L. Andersen
American politician and businessman
Born
June 17th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2004 21 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 30th Governor of Minnesota from 1961 to 1963. Andersen's tenure focused on education reform and the enhancement of state infrastructure. Prior to his governorship, he played a significant role in the business sector, founding several successful companies. After leaving office, he remained active in public service and continued to engage in philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and the arts. His approach to governance emphasized fiscal responsibility and community involvement.
Continue ReadingFritz Reiner
Conductor and music director
Born
December 19th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1963 62 years ago — 74 years old
Born in Hungary, a prominent conductor established a successful career in the United States. Conducted the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, where significant contributions to orchestral music were made. Renowned for interpretations of classical repertoire, particularly works by composers such as Mahler and Strauss. Also served as music director for the New York Philharmonic and had a notable career in opera, leading productions at the Metropolitan Opera. Recorded extensively, leaving a legacy of distinguished performances.
Continue ReadingSpeedy West
Guitarist and producer in country music
Born
January 25th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2003 22 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in the country music scene, contributed significantly as a steel guitarist and producer. Played on numerous recordings throughout the 1940s and 1950s, helping to shape the sound of Western swing and honky-tonk music. Worked with various notable artists, enhancing their recordings with unique steel guitar tones. Produced tracks that showcased the versatility and richness of country music instrumentation.
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