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

Lauritz Melchior

Tenor and actor in opera performances
Born
March 20th, 1890 136 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Denmark and later becoming an American citizen, this tenor achieved prominence in the world of opera during the 20th century. Renowned for powerful performances, he specialized in Wagnerian roles, earning accolades for portrayals of characters like Tristan in 'Tristan und Isolde' and Siegfried in 'Der Ring des Nibelungen'. Melchior's contribution to the Metropolitan Opera established a legacy that has influenced generations of singers. His vocal abilities were complemented by a robust stage presence, making him a celebrated figure in the operatic community.

Continue Reading

Alfonso García Robles

Mexican lawyer and diplomat, Nobel Laureate
Born
March 20th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1991 34 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent lawyer and diplomat, contributed significantly to disarmament efforts and international relations. Worked for the Mexican government and served as Ambassador to various countries. Advocated for peace and nuclear disarmament. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 for efforts in promoting disarmament in Latin America.

Continue Reading

Nikolai Stepulov

Boxer with European Championship title
Born
March 20th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1913, this Russian-Estonian boxer excelled in the sport during the mid-20th century. He competed in various championships, showcasing skills that earned significant recognition. Stepulov's career included participation in European boxing competitions, where he consistently demonstrated exceptional technique and prowess in the ring. His notable performances contributed to the growth of boxing in the region and inspired many aspiring athletes. After retirement, Stepulov transitioned to coaching, fostering new talent in the sport.

Continue Reading

Hugh MacLennan

Canadian author and educator
Born
March 20th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
1990 36 years ago — 83 years old

An influential Canadian author and educator contributed to Canadian literature through novels, essays, and poetry. Teaching at McGill University and other institutions fostered a new generation of writers. The work focused on Canadian identity and the complexities of national consciousness. Prominent novels include 'Two Solitudes' and 'The Watch That Ends the Night', which explore themes of cultural conflict in Canada. As an educator, facilitated discussions on literature and culture, shaping the intellectual landscape of the country.

Continue Reading

Abraham Beame

104th Mayor of New York City
Born
March 20th, 1906 120 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2001 25 years ago — 94 years old

Served as the 104th Mayor of New York City from 1974 to 1977. Faced significant challenges during tenure including financial crisis and urban decline. Implemented measures to tackle fiscal issues and supported city services amidst economic hardships. Prior to mayoralty, held various roles in public service including as a member of the New York City Board of Estimate. Engaged in various policies aimed at urban development and community improvement.

Continue Reading

Michael Redgrave

English actor and director in theater
Born
March 20th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1985 41 years ago — 77 years old

Played leading roles in theater and film from the 1930s to the 1970s. Directed several theatrical productions and made significant contributions to the British stage. In film, appeared in classics such as 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The Browning Version'. Received critical acclaim for performances and directed the film 'The Seagull'.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 8th

Maximilian von Spee

Admiral during World War I
Born
June 22nd, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1914 111 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1861, served as an admiral in the Imperial German Navy. Commanded the East Asia Squadron, engaging in naval battles during World War I. Led the fleet that participated in the Battle of Coronel, which resulted in a significant naval victory for Germany. Engaged in the Battle of the Falkland Islands, where the squadron faced defeat. Instrumental in establishing German naval presence in the Pacific region.

Continue Reading

Ernst Krenkel

Geographer and Arctic Explorer
Born
December 24th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1971 54 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1903, contributions to Arctic exploration included leadership in significant expeditions. Explored Siberia and the Arctic Ocean, conducting scientific research and mapping uncharted territories. Participated in Soviet scientific missions and became a prominent figure in polar exploration. Development of geographical education and promotion of scientific understanding in exploration launched overseas expeditions and contributed to geopolitical knowledge.

Continue Reading

Richard Baxter

Theologian and poet of English Puritanism
Born
November 12th, 1615 410 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1691 334 years ago — 76 years old

A significant figure in the English Puritan movement, this individual served as a minister and played a key role in the development of Protestant thought. Recognized for extensive writings, particularly 'The Saints' Everlasting Rest' and 'The Reformed Pastor', which addressed pastoral care and spiritual devotion. Contributed to religious and philosophical discourse through sermons and publications that explored Christian doctrine. Engaged in theological debates during a turbulent period in English history, promoting a consensus among varying religious factions.

Continue Reading

Rose Heilbron

British barrister and judge
Born
August 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old

Graduated from the University of Liverpool with a law degree. Became one of the first female barristers in the UK in 1944, achieving significant milestones in a male-dominated field. Appointed as a judge in the Family Division of the High Court in 1979. Played a crucial role in several notable cases, particularly in family law. Served as the first female leader of the Bar Council and helped pave the way for women in law.

Continue Reading

Thomas Corneille

French playwright and philologist
Born
August 20th, 1625 400 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1709 316 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent playwright and philologist, contributed significantly to French theatre. Established a successful career in the 17th century, writing numerous plays that were well-received in Paris. His works often blended drama with poetic language, showcasing his literary talents. Served as a member of the French Academy, where he influenced the literary scene of his time. Engaged in scholarly pursuits related to language and literature, marking a notable contribution to philology.

Continue Reading

Slim Pickens

Actor and rodeo performer in Western films
Born
June 29th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1983 42 years ago — 64 years old

An American actor and rodeo performer, gained recognition for distinctive roles in Western films. Worked as a rodeo performer before transitioning to acting, quickly establishing a career in Hollywood. Starred in several classic Westerns and became widely recognized for a notable role in the film 'Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb'. The portrayal of a cowboy pilot contributed to the film's unique comedic tone.

Continue Reading