Emil Zátopek
Czech long-distance runner and Olympic champion
Zátopek was a long-distance runner from Czechoslovakia. He competed in the 1948 and 1952 Olympic Games, achieving remarkable success. At the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, he won gold medals in the 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, and the marathon, becoming the first athlete to win all three events in a single Olympic Games. His unique training methods and relentless competitive spirit set him apart in the world of athletics. Zátopek's running style, characterized by his distinctive laborious breathing, made him an iconic figure in sports history. He also set multiple world records during his career.
Won three gold medals at the 1952 Olympics
Set numerous world records in distance running
Other People Born on September 19th
Ángel Reyna
Mexican footballer and Liga MX player
Born
September 19th, 1984 41 years ago
A professional footballer began career in the Mexican Primera División. Played for several clubs, including Club América and Veracruz. Gained recognition for skills as an attacking midfielder. Competed in international tournaments, representing the national team at youth and senior levels. Retired from professional football after a successful stint in domestic leagues.
Continue ReadingMasatoshi Koshiba
Japanese physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 19th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent physicist played a critical role in the discovery of neutrinos. Worked on the development of the Kamiokande neutrino detector in Japan, which led to groundbreaking observations of neutrino interactions. Contributed significantly to experimental particle physics and was involved in various international collaborations aimed at exploring fundamental particles. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2002, shared for contributions to the understanding of neutrinos and their role in astrophysics.
Continue ReadingMike Royko
American journalist and author of columns
Born
September 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1997 28 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent journalist and author based in Chicago, contributed extensively to political commentary through newspaper columns. Worked for several major publications, including the Chicago Daily News and the Chicago Sun-Times. His writing style blended humor and sharp criticism, addressing social issues and local politics. Authored several books, sharing insights on urban life and American culture. Received the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished commentary in 1972, underlining the significance of his contributions to journalism.
Continue ReadingBrook Benton
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
September 19th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1988 37 years ago — 56 years old
This American musician gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s with a series of successful recordings. Blending genres such as R&B, soul, and pop, the artist achieved notable chart success. The hit singles 'Rainy Night in Soho' and 'It's Just a Matter of Time' showcased a smooth vocal style and emotional delivery. The career also included collaborations with various producers and fellow artists, further establishing a lasting legacy in American music. His contributions extended to acting, appearing in musical television specials and performances.
Continue ReadingPablita Velarde
Native American painter and muralist
Born
September 19th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2006 20 years ago — 87 years old
A Santa Clara Pueblo artist focused on preserving Native American culture through art. Specializing in traditional Pueblo pottery and painting, gained recognition for contributing to the revival of Pueblo style painting. Worked on significant murals that depict the history and stories of the Santa Clara Pueblo people. Received numerous awards, including being the first woman to receive a fellowship from the New Mexico Community Foundation.
Continue ReadingHidetaka Miyazaki
Video game designer, Dark Souls creator
Born
September 19th, 1974 51 years ago
A prominent video game designer and executive, contributed significantly to the gaming industry through the creation of critically acclaimed titles. Designed the renowned Dark Souls series, recognized for its challenging gameplay and intricate world-building. Established the Soulsborne genre, influencing numerous subsequent games in design and narrative structure. Led the development team at FromSoftware and directed games such as Bloodborne and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 21st
Bob Foster
Boxer and police officer, light heavyweight champion
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 77 years old
A professional boxer competed in the light heavyweight division, securing the WBA title in 1968. Held the title until 1974, successfully defended it multiple times. Transitioned to a career in law enforcement after boxing. Participated in several notable fights, including bouts against Dick Tiger and Rubin Carter. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990 for achievements in the sport.
Continue ReadingAmeen Faheem
Indian-Pakistani poet and politician
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old
An influential figure in Urdu poetry and politics, contributions included significant literary works and active participation in political movements. Served as a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan, advocating for various social issues. Authored poetry that resonated with the struggles of the common people, emphasizing themes of love, loss, and social justice. His literary achievements are celebrated in the Urdu literary community.
Continue ReadingVern Mikkelsen
Basketball player and coach with Lakers
Born
October 21st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Played professional basketball in the NBA for the Minneapolis Lakers from 1949 to 1959. Achieved success as a player by winning four championships. Transitioned to coaching and led teams at various levels including college basketball. Known for contributions to the sport during the early years of the NBA.
Continue ReadingFrank Martin
Pianist and composer, noted for 'Concerto for 7 Wind Instruments'
Born
September 15th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1890, a Swiss-Dutch pianist and composer contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Early education occurred in Switzerland, further training established in music theory and composition. Martin's work is characterized by innovation, combining elements from various musical traditions. The 'Concerto for 7 Wind Instruments,' composed in 1949, is among his most recognized works and showcases his unique style. Additionally, the 'Ballade for Piano and Orchestra' and 'Petite symphonie concertante' illustrate his orchestration skills. Teaching activities allowed dissemination of his musical ideas, influencing a generation of composers. Martin's extensive catalog includes chamber music, orchestral works, and vocal compositions, cementing his legacy in the classical music realm.
Continue ReadingQuentin Crisp
English author and illustrator of 'The Naked Civil Servant'
Born
December 25th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old
An author and illustrator gained recognition for the autobiographical work 'The Naked Civil Servant', which candidly depicted experiences as a gay man in mid-20th century Britain. The book's publication in 1968 drew considerable attention and was later adapted into a television film in 1975. Crisp's unique style and perspective contributed to the discourse on gender and sexuality in literature. He also published several other works, including 'Miss Crisp' and 'The Age of Consent', showcasing a distinctive voice and narrative approach. Later in life, emigrated to the United States, where continued to write and speak on various topics, influencing discussions on identity and society.
Continue ReadingBernard Parmegiani
French composer of electroacoustic music
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2013 12 years ago — 86 years old
A pivotal figure in the development of electroacoustic music, this composer explored the relationship between sound and technology. Initially trained as an acoustic musician, transitioned to electronic music during the 1950s. Worked extensively with sound synthesis and tape manipulation, establishing a unique sonic language. Contributed to significant institutions like the Groupe de Recherches Musicales. Composed pieces that highlighted the experimental potential of recorded sound, integrating concepts of musique concrète. His works demonstrated innovative techniques and were influential in expanding the boundaries of musical composition.
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