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

Nick Leddy

Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
March 20th, 1991 35 years ago

This American ice hockey player played as a defenseman in the NHL. Drafted by the Minnesota Wild in the 2nd round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, began professional career with the Rockford IceHogs in the AHL. Established a notable role with the Chicago Blackhawks, contributing to the team’s success during the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs. Played a significant part in the Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup that year. Later, joined the New York Islanders and took part in multiple seasons, showcasing skills on both offense and defense. Most recently, contributed to the Detroit Red Wings.

Continue Reading

Börries von Münchhausen

German poet and writer
Born
March 20th, 1874 152 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1945 81 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent German poet, contributions to literature included modern poetry and works exploring themes of nature and human experience. His poetry reflects a connection to the Romantic tradition, revealing an affinity for both the aesthetic and philosophical dimensions of literature. Active during the early 20th century, he engaged with various literary movements and circles, which influenced his writing style. His collected works showcase a blend of lyrical expression and a dedication to form. He also contributed to cultural discussions of the time through essays.

Continue Reading

Marcos Rojo

Argentine footballer; 2014 FIFA World Cup
Born
March 20th, 1990 36 years ago

A professional footballer, primarily a defender, played for clubs including Estudiantes, Manchester United, and Sevilla. Represented Argentina in various international competitions, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the Copa América. Rojo contributed to Manchester United's success in the 2016 FA Cup and the 2017 EFL Cup. His career includes significant club-level achievements and influential performances on the international stage.

Continue Reading

Marian McPartland

Pianist and composer of jazz music
Born
March 20th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2013 12 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed to the jazz scene through performance and radio. Emerged as a significant figure in the world of jazz starting in the 1940s. Hosted the radio program 'Piano Jazz' on National Public Radio for over three decades, showcasing a variety of jazz talents. Recorded numerous albums, collaborating with various renowned musicians. Her compositions reflect a blend of classical and jazz influences, and her work has contributed to the evolution of modern jazz.

Continue Reading

Thomas Cooper

British poet and author of 'The Purgatory'
Born
March 20th, 1805 221 years ago
Died
1892 134 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1805, this British poet gained recognition for a range of works that blend personal experience with broader human themes. He was self-educated and began his career as a coal miner, which influenced much of his poetry. The work 'The Purgatory', a long poem, reflects on the struggles of personal redemption and social justice. In addition to poetry, this individual wrote essays and other literary works that analyzed the human condition and critiqued societal norms. His literary contributions extend beyond verse into discussions that shaped cultural dialogues of his time.

Continue Reading

Magadu

Founder of Ramanya and Hanthawady Kingdoms
Born
March 20th, 1253 773 years ago
Died
1307 719 years ago — 54 years old

Originally named Wareru, established the Ramanya Kingdom in what is now Myanmar. Later renamed the Hanthawady Kingdom of Pegu, which became influential in the region. This leader played a crucial role in the political landscape of historical Myanmar and contributed to its governance structure. Oversaw developments that shaped the kingdom's administration and territorial expansion during a vital period.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 8th

Bram Behr

Surinamese journalist and activist
Born
January 18th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1982 43 years ago — 31 years old

A journalist and activist engaged in Surinamese social and political issues. Contributed to various media outlets, focusing on human rights and democracy within Suriname. Actively involved in advocating for press freedom and civil liberties during challenging political climates. Established a reputation for journalistic integrity and commitment to the public interest.

Continue Reading

Berthold IV

Duke of Zähringen
Died
December 8th, 1186 839 years ago — None years old

Duke of Zähringen governed from approximately 1125 until death in 1186. His reign focused on the expansion of territory and influence in the region, particularly in what is now southwestern Germany and parts of Switzerland. Promoted trade and established numerous settlements, enhancing economic strength. Participated actively in the political landscape, including alliances through marriage and conflict involvement, which shaped local power dynamics. Successfully defended his lands from various external threats, ensuring relative stability throughout his rule.

Continue Reading

Hans Molisch

Czech-Austrian botanist and academic
Born
December 6th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1937 88 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1853, this individual made significant contributions to botany, particularly in the fields of plant physiology and ecology. He served as a professor at the University of Vienna, where he advanced research on plant biology. His work included studies on plant competition and allelopathy, exploring the chemical interactions between plants. This botanist published numerous influential papers and books, notably 'Plant Life' which summarized important findings in plant ecology and physiology.

Continue Reading

George Boole

Mathematician, creator of Boolean algebra
Born
November 2nd, 1815 210 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1864 161 years ago — 49 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematics and logic. Developed Boolean algebra, which laid the foundational principles for modern computer science and digital circuitry. His work, 'The Mathematical Analysis of Logic', introduced a formal mathematical system for reasoning. Served as a professor at Queen's College, Cork.

Continue Reading

Golda Meir

Israeli politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 3rd, 1898 128 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1978 47 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Ukraine, became a prominent politician in Israel. Worked in various capacities within the Israeli government, eventually serving as the fourth Prime Minister from 1969 to 1974. Played a significant role in the 1973 Yom Kippur War and was a key figure in the development of the state of Israel. Advocated for social welfare and the rights of Jews worldwide. Instrumental in fundraising efforts for the country during its early years, emphasizing the need for security and stability.

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