Douglas Tompkins

Businessman and co-founder of The North Face

Douglas Tompkins - Thinkers & Philosophers born March 20th, 1943
Born
Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Co-founded outdoor apparel companies The North Face and Esprit Holdings. Established The North Face in 1966, focusing on high-quality outdoor gear. Expanded Esprit Holdings into a global fashion brand after its founding in 1968. Transitioned to environmental conservation, founding the Tompkins Conservation organization, which aimed to create national parks in Chile and Argentina. Played a significant role in land conservation efforts and reforestation projects in South America.

Co-founded The North Face

Established Esprit Holdings

Founded Tompkins Conservation

Other People Born on March 20th

Jerome Emser

German theologian and scholar
Born
March 20th, 1477 549 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1527 498 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1477, this theologian contributed significantly to the early Reformation debates. Emser studied at the University of Heidelberg before earning a doctorate in theology. He became a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, opposing Martin Luther's ideas. Emser's writings defended papal authority and criticized Protestant reformers. His works included pamphlets, treatises, and responses to Luther, notably 'Against Martin Luther's Ninety-Five Theses'. He played a key role in the religious discussions of his time, aligning closely with Catholic doctrine during a period of great upheaval in Christianity.

Continue Reading

Wendell Corey

Actor and politician, starred in 'Prime Suspect'
Born
March 20th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1968 57 years ago — 54 years old

An American actor and politician, involvement in the entertainment industry included a key role in the film 'Prime Suspect' and performances in television series such as 'The Long Hot Summer.' Transitioning into politics, held a position as a member of the California State Assembly. Active in both fields throughout a career that spanned several decades, contributed to the cultural and political landscape of mid-20th century America.

Continue Reading

Brian Mulroney

Prime Minister of Canada
Born
March 20th, 1939 87 years ago
Died
February 29th, 2024 2 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 18th Prime Minister of Canada from 1984 to 1993. Played a key role in the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement, promoting trade between the two nations. His government implemented significant economic reforms and was involved in the negotiations that led to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Mulroney also focused on environmental issues, introducing policies aimed at protecting natural resources. After leaving office, continued to engage in various business and legal ventures, as well as maintaining a presence in Canadian political discourse.

Continue Reading

Elisabeth Geleerd

Psychoanalyst with impactful theories
Born
March 20th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1969 56 years ago — 60 years old

Born in the Netherlands and later moved to the United States, a significant figure in psychoanalysis. Contributed to the field through numerous publications and clinical practices, focusing on psychological theories and therapeutic approaches. Published influential works that explored the depths of the human psyche and the intricacies of emotional well-being. Engaged with various psychoanalytic institutions, advancing the discourse on mental health. Left a legacy in the study of psychoanalysis that continues to influence therapists and scholars.

Continue Reading

Ivan Mazepa

Ukrainian diplomat and military leader
Born
March 20th, 1639 387 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1709 316 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a prominent Ukrainian political figure and military leader during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Became the Cossack Hetman of Left-bank Ukraine in 1687 and held the position until death in 1709. Established alliances with various powers, notably with Sweden during the Great Northern War, aiming for Ukrainian independence from Russian control. His life ended in exile after a failed uprising against Russian dominance.

Continue Reading

James P. Gordon

Physicist and engineer specializing in lasers
Born
March 20th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
June 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1928, this American physicist and engineer contributed significantly to the field of laser technology. He received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the City College of New York and went on to earn a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His research in laser dynamics led to the development of important laser systems. He served as a professor at the University of Maryland, advancing education in applied physics and electrical engineering while mentoring numerous students throughout his career. His work laid the groundwork for various laser applications across different industries, further establishing the relevance of lasers in modern technology.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 8th

Marie Anne de Mailly

Mistress of Louis XV of France
Born
1717 309 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1744 281 years ago — 27 years old

A prominent figure in the court of Louis XV, she became his official mistress around 1733. De Mailly was a member of the noble Mailly family and played a significant role in the social and political dynamics of the French court. The affair led to her being granted various privileges and responsibilities, often influencing royal decisions. However, the relationship did not last, as de Mailly was eventually replaced by another mistress. Her life ended in 1744, but she remains a significant figure in the context of French monarchy and society during her time.

Continue Reading

Betty Holberton

Computer pioneer and programmer
Born
March 7th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2001 24 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed to the development of early computers, particularly the ENIAC, one of the first electronic general-purpose computers. Played a pivotal role in programming the ENIAC, which was instrumental in the advancement of computing technology. Participated in the development of the UNIVAC I, the first commercially available computer in the United States. Actively engaged in promoting computing education and advocating for women's roles in computer science.

Continue Reading

Albert Kahn

Architect, Fisher Building, Ford complex
Born
1869 157 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1942 83 years ago — 73 years old

An architect played a significant role in the development of industrial architecture in the United States. Kahn designed numerous iconic structures for the automotive industry, notably the Fisher Building in Detroit, which showcased a blend of Renaissance and Art Deco styles. The Packard Automotive Plant was another major project, influencing factory design worldwide. Kahn also contributed to the Ford River Rouge Complex, one of the largest automotive manufacturing facilities of its time, epitomizing assembly line production. His approach to architecture emphasized functionality and efficiency, aligning with the needs of the rapidly growing automotive sector.

Continue Reading

King Oscar II of Sweden

Swedish Monarch, 1907 Nobel Prize winner
Born
1829 197 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1907 118 years ago — 78 years old

Reigned as King of Sweden and Norway from 1872 until his death in 1907. Championed the union between Sweden and Norway, supporting various cultural and scientific endeavors. Presided over a period of significant industrial growth and modernization in Sweden. During his reign, witnessed the rise of social movements and political reform. Contributed to the establishment of the Nobel Prizes, promoting scientific advancements and humanitarian efforts.

Continue Reading

John Gowans

Scottish-English General of The Salvation Army
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the 16th General of The Salvation Army, leading the organization from 1992 to 2002. During tenure, emphasized a mission focused on social justice and community service. Played a significant role in expanding the global outreach of The Salvation Army, implementing various programs to address poverty, addiction, and disaster relief. Worked on creating a more inclusive church environment while promoting the values of compassion and service through faith-based initiatives.

Continue Reading

Robert Jay Mathews

Militant leader, founded The Order
Born
January 16th, 1953 73 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1984 41 years ago — 31 years old

An American militant leader founded The Order, a white supremacist organization, in 1983. The group sought to establish a white-only homeland in the Pacific Northwest and was involved in various criminal activities, including bank robbery and conspiracy to commit violence. Under the leadership, the organization gained notoriety for its paramilitary structure and extreme ideology. The group's operations were ultimately dismantled by law enforcement, culminating in Mathews' death during a standoff with the FBI in 1984.

Continue Reading