Don Garlits
Race car driver and drag racing legend
A prominent figure in the world of drag racing, this individual revolutionized the sport with innovative engineering and design. Garlits participated in drag races from the 1950s and was pivotal in popularizing the use of rear-engine dragsters. Achievements include multiple wins at the NHRA US Nationals and being the first to exceed 270 mph in a quarter-mile drag race. His contributions also extended to the development of advanced racing technologies and safety measures in drag racing vehicles. Garlits' career has included significant involvement in professional racing as both a driver and a builder of championship-winning cars.
First to exceed 270 mph in drag racing
Multiple NHRA US Nationals champion
Other People Born on January 14th
Byron Leftwich
American football quarterback and coach
Born
January 14th, 1980 46 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Achieved recognition while leading the Jaguars, notably during the 2003 season when the team reached the playoffs. Transitioned to coaching, serving as an offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, contributing to their victory in Super Bowl LV.
Continue ReadingQiang Wang
Tennis player and Australian Open competitor
Born
January 14th, 1992 34 years ago
Competed professionally in tennis, achieving notable recognition on the WTA Tour. Reached the fourth round of the Australian Open in 2019, which marked the best performance in a Grand Slam tournament. Also represented China in various international competitions, including the Fed Cup. Made significant contributions to the growth of tennis in China through participation in both singles and doubles events.
Continue ReadingMartin Niemöller
German theologian and pastor
Born
January 14th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1984 41 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent German theologian and pastor, significant for vocal opposition to the Nazi regime. Initially supportive of Adolf Hitler, later became a critic of the regime's persecution of Jews. Established the Confessing Church, which stood against the Nazi-influenced German Evangelical Church. Imprisoned for seven years in concentration camps due to his resistance. After World War II, focused on reconciliation and addressing issues of faith and peace.
Continue ReadingCecil Beaton
Photographer and costume designer
Born
January 14th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1980 46 years ago — 76 years old
A celebrated photographer, painter, and costume designer, he gained recognition for his work in fashion photography as well as for his innovative costume designs for theater and film. Active in the mid-20th century, he was a prominent figure in British society and culture. He won two Academy Awards for Best Costume Design for the films 'Gigi' and 'My Fair Lady'. His photography often featured famous individuals, capturing the elegance and style of the era. Exhibitions of his works have been held worldwide, highlighting his contributions to the arts.
Continue ReadingShawn Crawford
American sprinter with Olympic medals
Born
January 14th, 1978 48 years ago
Competed in track and field as a sprinter, specializing in the 200 meters. Achieved significant success at the Olympic Games, winning gold medals in both the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Olympics. Demonstrated exceptional performance in various international meets and championships, solidifying a reputation as one of the top sprinters of his era.
Continue ReadingMaria Theresa of Austria
Empress and Reformer of Austria
Born
January 14th, 1767 259 years ago
Died
1827 199 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1767, this ruler became the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions and also served as the last Holy Roman Empress. She implemented various reforms in the military, education, and taxation systems. Her reign saw a focus on consolidating the Habsburg Empire in the face of external threats and internal challenges. The political landscape involved significant wars, including the War of Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Under her rule, the empire modernized, establishing new administrative protocols and addressing issues within the various provinces. Focus on philanthropy and education was evident through the establishment of orphanages and improvements in public education. She commanded strong loyalty and worked to strengthen the unity of her lands.
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