Eivind Astrup

Norwegian explorer of Greenland regions

Eivind Astrup - Norwegian explorer of Greenland regions
Born

September 17th, 1871
153 years ago

Died

December 27th, 1895
129 years ago — 24 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

Norway

Links & References

Significant contributions to Arctic exploration occurred through expeditions to Greenland and the polar regions. Participated in several notable expeditions, including a pivotal journey in 1898, which mapped unknown territories. Focused on geographic and scientific research, including studies of local flora and fauna. Engaged in educational efforts to promote knowledge about the Arctic areas, contributing to the understanding of these challenging environments.

Mapped previously uncharted areas of Greenland

Participated in the 1898–1899 expedition

Other People Born on September 17th

Bob Matsui

American lawyer and politician
Born
September 17th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent politician, served as a U.S. Representative for California's 5th congressional district from 1993 until 2005. Played a key role in various congressional committees and focused on issues such as civil rights, education, and healthcare. Worked as a lawyer prior to entering politics, contributing to legal frameworks within California. Advocated for community development and fiscal responsibility during tenure in office.

Continue Reading

John List

American murderer of his family
Born
September 17th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old

Committed the murder of five family members in 1971 in Westfield, New Jersey, then disappeared for 18 years. Assumed a new identity while evading law enforcement. Arrested in 1989 after America's Most Wanted featured the case. Convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole, List died in 2008.

Continue Reading

Jim Cornette

Wrestling manager and sportscaster
Born
September 17th, 1961 63 years ago

A wrestling manager and sportscaster, opened a wrestling promotion known as Smoky Mountain Wrestling. Served as a manager for several major wrestling organizations, including World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Frequently appeared in wrestling media and podcasts, providing commentary and analysis on the wrestling industry. Gained a reputation for strong opinions on various topics within professional wrestling.

Continue Reading

Nigel Boocock

Motorcycle racer, competed in the GP
Born
September 17th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 78 years old

Born in England, a prominent motorcycle racer competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing during the 1950s and 1960s. Relocated to Australia where continued racing. Achieved notable success in various competitions and was recognized for skill in speedway racing, particularly in the 1960s. Career included participation in several international events and earned respect in the motorcycle racing community.

Continue Reading

Thomas J. Bata

Czech-Canadian businessman and shoemaker
Born
September 17th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2008 16 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1914, a Czech-Canadian businessman played a crucial role in the global footwear industry through the Bata Shoe Organization. After facing disruptions during World War II, relocation to Canada occurred, where expansion of the business took place. The organization became one of the largest footwear manufacturers in the world. Contributions included retail innovation and the establishment of the first Bata manufacturing plant in Canada, which significantly increased production capabilities. The brand became synonymous with affordable quality footwear worldwide.

Continue Reading

Des Lynam

Journalist and author; BBC Sports presenter
Born
September 17th, 1942 82 years ago

Born in Ireland, pursued a career in journalism with a focus on sports coverage. Joined the BBC and became a prominent sports presenter, covering major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games. Also served as a host for various BBC programs, combining analysis with engaging commentary. Transitioned into writing, authoring works on sports and his experiences in journalism.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 27th

Ellsworth Kelly

American painter and sculptor of color fields
Born
May 31st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 9 years ago — 92 years old

An influential figure in the contemporary art movement, created works that emphasize color and form. Developed a distinctive style that contributed to the Color Field painting genre. Established a significant career through innovative approaches to painting and sculpture. Explored the intersection of abstraction and representation, often using vibrant colors and geometric shapes. His large-scale installations and canvases have been exhibited in major galleries and museums, enhancing the dialogue surrounding modern art.

Continue Reading

Gaozong of Tang

Tang dynasty's third emperor
Died
December 27th, 683 1341 years ago — None years old

Ascended the throne in 650 and oversaw significant cultural and economic advancements in the Tang dynasty. His reign marked the peak of the dynasty’s power and influence, characterized by territorial expansion and consolidation of imperial authority. Gaozong's administration implemented reforms in governance and promoted the development of the arts and culture, making the Tang dynasty a golden period in Chinese history. He faced various challenges, including internal strife and rebellious forces, but maintained control until his death in 683.

Continue Reading

Lester B. Pearson

Canadian Prime Minister and Nobel laureate
Born
April 23rd, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1972 52 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 14th Prime Minister of Canada from 1963 to 1968. Played a significant role in establishing Canada's modern welfare state and promoting peacekeeping initiatives. Instrumental in the creation of the United Nations Emergency Force, which aimed to resolve the Suez Crisis. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for efforts in peacekeeping and international diplomacy.

Continue Reading

William Armstrong

English engineer and inventor of hydropower
Born
1810 215 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1900 124 years ago — 90 years old

An influential engineer and businessman in England, established the engineering and armaments company Armstrong Whitworth. Pioneered the use of hydraulic power in the manufacturing industry, contributing significantly to the development of modern engineering techniques. Played a key role in the construction of the iconic Tyneside shipyards, significantly advancing shipbuilding. Also engaged in public life and was awarded a barony for contributions to industry and society, particularly in the field of engineering.

Continue Reading

Fanny Cradock

Chef and television cooking presenter
Born
February 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1994 30 years ago — 85 years old

An influential figure in British culinary arts, gained recognition for television cooking programs that showcased both traditional and modern recipes. Published numerous cookbooks, contributing significantly to the popularization of home cooking in the post-war era. Known for a distinctive style and charming persona, established a legacy in culinary television.

Continue Reading

Johnny Wilson

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
June 14th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2011 13 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1929, a Canadian-American ice hockey player and coach had a significant career in the National Hockey League (NHL). Played for the Detroit Red Wings, where he was part of the championship-winning team in 1954, contributing to their Stanley Cup victory. Later became a head coach for various teams in the NHL, showcasing a versatile approach to coaching and player development. Transitioned into a coaching role after retiring as a player, contributing to hockey at different levels. Passed away in 2023.

Continue Reading