Doris Miller
American soldier and cook in WWII
Served in the United States Navy during World War II. Assigned to the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Displayed remarkable bravery by manning a machine gun, despite not being trained for such tasks. Awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism. Became the first African American to receive this honor in the Navy. Later became an icon of the contributions of African Americans in the military.
Manned a machine gun during the Pearl Harbor attack
Awarded the Navy Cross for bravery
Other People Born on October 12th
Lutz Haueisen
German Cyclist and World Champion
Born
October 12th, 1956 69 years ago
Competed in road cycling during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Achieved significant success at the World Championships, earning medals in various championships. Recorded notable performances in international competitions representing East Germany.
Continue ReadingArthur Nikisch
Hungarian conductor and music educator
Born
October 12th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1922 104 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent conductor and music educator, contributed significantly to classical music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Served as the principal conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Directed world premieres of major works, including pieces by Richard Strauss and Gustav Mahler. Influenced the training of conductors and orchestral performance.
Continue ReadingSam Whitelock
Rugby player and World Cup champion
Born
October 12th, 1988 37 years ago
A rugby player represented New Zealand in international competitions. Played as a lock and was part of the national team during several major tournaments. Achieved significant recognition through participation in the Rugby World Cup and contributed to multiple victories, showcasing leadership and skill on the field.
Continue ReadingDietrich von Hildebrand
German Catholic philosopher and author
Born
October 12th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1977 49 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent philosopher and author engaged in the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and aesthetics. Contributed to the Catholic philosophical tradition through works on personalism, love, and the nature of beauty. Served as a professor at the University of Munich, influencing generations of students. Emigrated to the United States during World War II, where continued to teach and write on key philosophical issues, particularly relating to faith and reason.
Continue ReadingRobert Mangold
American painter and abstract artist
Born
October 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Significant contributions to abstract painting occurred through geometric forms and color exploration. Worked primarily with shaped canvases and was a pioneer in the use of specific colors to convey depth and dimensionality. Created a unique visual language that merged structure with perception. Participated in numerous exhibitions across the United States and internationally, solidifying a reputation within the contemporary art scene. Received attention in art institutions and is included in permanent collections of major museums.
Continue ReadingPaul Engle
American novelist and poet
Born
October 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1991 34 years ago — 82 years old
Engle was an American novelist, poet, playwright, and critic. He authored numerous works throughout his career, including the novel 'The Man Who Died' and a collection of poems titled 'The Broken Landscape'. Engle served as the director of the Iowa Writers' Workshop for many years, influencing generations of writers. His contributions to literature also include critiques and essays that explored the nuances of American poetry and drama.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 24th
Breyten Breytenbach
Poet and painter with anti-apartheid works
Born
September 16th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2024 1 years ago — 85 years old
Born in South Africa, Breyten Breytenbach became a prominent poet and painter, known for his strong opposition to apartheid. His works often intertwine themes of personal and political struggle. He spent several years in prison for his anti-apartheid activism, reflecting the intersection of art and resistance in his life. Breytenbach later lived in France, which influenced his artistic vision and expression. In addition to poetry, he also created notable works of visual art, further establishing his legacy in both fields.
Continue ReadingBarack Obama Sr.
Kenyan economist and scholar
Born
June 18th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1982 43 years ago — 48 years old
An economist from Kenya, contributed to the development of the country's economic policies. Worked for the Kenyan government and held various academic positions. Played a significant role in shaping economic discourse in Kenya during the early years of independence, focusing on economic planning and policies. His work helped lay the groundwork for future economic management in the country.
Continue ReadingArnaud Coyot
French professional cyclist
Born
October 6th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2013 12 years ago — 33 years old
A professional cyclist from France, participated in multiple prestigious cycling events. Competed in the Tour de France and was part of the French national cycling team. Specialized in road racing and contributed to various team successes during his career.
Continue ReadingHelen Gallagher
Actress and singer in Broadway musicals
Born
July 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2024 1 years ago — 98 years old
Started a career in entertainment with performances in Broadway musicals. Received acclaim for roles in 'Pippin' and 'Six Degrees of Separation'. Performed in television series such as 'Ryan's Hope'. Honored with awards, including two Tony Awards for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. Contributed to the arts as a singer and dancer over several decades.
Continue ReadingFranz Moritz von Lacy
Austrian field marshal during wars
Born
October 21st, 1725 300 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1801 224 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1725, a prominent field marshal in the Austrian army, contributed significantly during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Participated in key battles and strategic military planning that influenced the outcomes of these conflicts. Advanced through military ranks due to effective leadership and tactical skills. Commanded troops in various theaters, including the successful siege of Prague. Held various administrative military positions, shaping the Austrian military structure.
Continue ReadingGeorges Clemenceau
French Prime Minister during WWI
Born
September 28th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1929 96 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent French politician and journalist, served as the 85th Prime Minister of France during World War I. Played a crucial role in leading France through the war and participated in the Paris Peace Conference in 1919. His leadership was characterized by a strong national defense policy and an emphasis on winning the war against the Central Powers. After the war, he became involved in foreign policy discussions, advocating for the Treaty of Versailles.
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