Don James
American football coach and player.
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An American football player and coach, served as the head coach at the University of Washington from 1975 to 1992. Achieved significant success during tenure, leading the team to a national championship in 1991. Before coaching, played as a quarterback at the University of Washington and later served as an assistant coach at various institutions. Developed a reputation for strong defensive strategies and a disciplined approach to coaching, contributing to the team's consistent performances in the Pac-10.
Coached Washington to a national championship in 1991
Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014
Other People Born on December 31st
Jacques Cartier
French explorer for New France and Canada
Born
December 31st, 1491 533 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1557 468 years ago — 65 years old
A French navigator and explorer played a crucial role in the early exploration of Canada. In 1534, he made his first voyage across the Atlantic and claimed the land in the name of France. He explored the Gulf of St. Lawrence and established contact with Indigenous peoples, notably the St. Lawrence Iroquoian tribes. Cartier's expeditions laid the groundwork for future French colonization in North America. His work contributed significantly to mapping the region, including the St. Lawrence River and the vicinity of present-day Quebec.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Pascoli
Italian poet and scholar with major works
Born
December 31st, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Italy in 1855, a significant poet and scholar of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His poetry dealt with themes of nature, rural life, and the human condition, reflecting personal experiences and universal emotions. Contributed to the Symbolist movement in Italy, blending personal narratives with broader societal themes. His collections, such as 'Myricae' and 'Poemi del Fanciullo,' established a foundation for modern Italian poetry. Emphasized simplicity in language and depth in emotion, influencing later generations of poets. Also served as a professor of Italian literature at the University of Bologna.
Continue ReadingIsma'il Pasha
Egyptian Politician and Khedive
Born
December 31st, 1830 194 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1895 130 years ago — 64 years old
Served as the Khedive of Egypt and Sudan from 1863 until deposed in 1879. Implemented a series of modernization reforms focusing on agriculture, transportation, and education. Promoted the expansion of the Suez Canal and supported infrastructure projects that boosted trade. His administration, however, led to significant debt, prompting foreign intervention in Egypt's financial affairs. After his deposition, the administration of Egypt transitioned to British control.
Continue ReadingJoseph S. Cullinan
Businessman, co-founder of Texaco
Born
December 31st, 1860 164 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1937 88 years ago — 76 years old
A businessman co-founded Texaco, which became a significant player in the oil industry. Established in 1902, Texaco grew rapidly under his guidance, contributing to the development of oil refining and distribution in the United States. Cullinan also played a role in the establishment of several other companies during the early 20th century, further shaping the petroleum landscape. His efforts laid important groundwork for modern energy corporations.
Continue ReadingQueen Kapiolani of Hawaii
Hawaiian monarch and cultural advocate
Born
December 31st, 1834 190 years ago
Died
1899 126 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1834, Kapiolani served as the queen consort of King David Kalakaua of Hawaii. She was a prominent figure in Hawaiian society and worked towards cultural preservation during a time of significant change. Kapiolani became well-known for promoting Hawaiian education and the arts. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Kapiolani Maternity Home, which provided healthcare for women and infants. Kapiolani's legacy included efforts in the revitalization of Hawaiian language and traditions amidst the influence of Western culture.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Boldini
Italian painter known for portraiture
Born
December 31st, 1842 182 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 89 years old
Born in Italy, a prominent painter specialized in portraiture, particularly during the Belle Époque period. Developed a distinct style characterized by dynamic brushwork and vibrant colors. Worked in Paris after moving from Florence, where collaboration with notable artists and exposure to avant-garde movements influenced the artistic approach. Portraits captured the elegance and sophistication of the upper class, leading to commissions from wealthy patrons. Exhibited works in major galleries and gained recognition for contributions to visual arts.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Paul Dirac
Theoretical physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
August 8th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1984 41 years ago — 82 years old
An English-American physicist contributed significantly to the field of quantum mechanics. Developed the Dirac equation, which describes the behavior of fermions and predicted the existence of antimatter. Held a professorship at the University of Cambridge and became a fellow of the Royal Society. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1933 for his work on the foundations of quantum mechanics.
Continue ReadingJane Wyatt
American actress, 'Father Knows Best'
Born
August 12th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 96 years old
An American actress, born in 1910, became prominent in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained widespread recognition for the role of Margaret Anderson on the television series 'Father Knows Best', which aired from 1954 to 1960. Also appeared in films such as 'High Noon' and 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady'. Wyatt's work spanned several decades, showcasing versatility across various genres.
Continue ReadingSteve Gaines
American singer-songwriter, guitar player
Born
September 14th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1977 48 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1949, this musician rose to prominence as a guitarist and songwriter in the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. His contributions to the band's sound were significant during the early 1970s. He joined Lynyrd Skynyrd shortly before the release of their acclaimed album "Street Survivors". The album featured popular tracks that showcased his guitar skills and songwriting. Tragically, his career was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1977, which also claimed the lives of several band members.
Continue ReadingHenry L. Stimson
American politician and Secretary of State
Born
September 21st, 1867 158 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1950 75 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the 46th Secretary of State from 1929 to 1933. Played a significant role in U.S. foreign policy during the Great Depression. Served as Secretary of War during World War II, overseeing the military efforts and the Manhattan Project, which developed the atomic bomb. Had a long career in public service, including roles as a U.S. Attorney and Governor-General of the Philippines. Stimson's policies often reflected a commitment to international cooperation and a strong national defense.
Continue ReadingGunnar Nilsson
Race Car Driver, 1977 Swedish GP Winner
Born
November 20th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1978 47 years ago — 29 years old
Born on November 20, 1948, in Sweden, a prominent race car driver made significant contributions to motorsport during the 1970s. Competed in Formula One, securing one Grand Prix victory during the 1977 season. Known for driving with the Shadow team, showcased exceptional skills on the racetrack, rising to prominence within the circuit. Tragically, a battle with cancer led to an early death in 1986, but his legacy continues to inspire many in the racing community.
Continue ReadingIztok Puc
Handball player, 2004 Olympic medalist
Born
September 14th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent handball player from Croatia and Slovenia, achieved significant success in the international arena. Competed in multiple European championships and world championships during the 1990s and early 2000s. Played for renowned clubs, contributing to their titles and victories. Was part of the Slovenian national team that secured a bronze medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics, marking a historical achievement for the country in handball.
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