Ezra Cornell

Businessman, founder of Cornell University

Ezra Cornell - Businessman, founder of Cornell University
Born

January 11th, 1807
218 years ago

Died

1874
151 years ago — 67 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

United States

Links & References

An American businessman and philanthropist established Western Union and Cornell University. The university was named after him and he served as its first trustee. In the 1850s, a revolution in telegraphy occurred, and he played a crucial role in its advancement, serving as a co-founder of the entities that would become known as Western Union. His philanthropic efforts focused on education, and he dedicated significant resources to the establishment of the university, ensuring it provided a broad and practical education.

Founded Western Union in 1851

Established Cornell University in 1865

Other People Born on January 11th

Alice Paul

American suffragist and activist
Born
January 11th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1977 48 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1885, a suffragist and activist advocated for women's rights in the United States. Played a key role in the campaign for the Nineteenth Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Helped organize the 1913 Woman Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C., which was a significant demonstration for women's voting rights. Founded the National Women's Party in 1916, promoting women's equality and suffrage through various strategies, including hunger strikes and picketing. Worked throughout her life to secure equal rights and continue women's movement efforts.

Continue Reading

August Heissmeyer

German SS officer during WWII
Born
January 11th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a high-ranking officer in the SS during World War II, overseeing various operations, particularly in the fields of police and concentration camps. Played a significant role in the implementation of policies regarding the treatment of detainees. Involved in the administration of several concentration camps and noted for direct involvement with the Nazi regime's infrastructure. After the war, faced trial for war crimes and was sentenced to death, later reduced to life imprisonment. Died in custody.

Continue Reading

Big Bank Hank

American Rapper and Songwriter
Born
January 11th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
November 11th, 2014 10 years ago — 58 years old

Originated as a member of the hip-hop group The Sugarhill Gang. The group gained prominence with the hit single 'Rapper's Delight' in 1979, one of the first rap records to achieve mainstream success. This track helped to introduce hip-hop culture to a wider audience and is credited with popularizing the genre. Contributed to the evolution of rap music and its acceptance in the music industry. The Sugarhill Gang's influence spanned decades, inspiring countless artists in the genre.

Continue Reading

Alexander Hamilton

American founding father and economist
Born
January 11th, 1755 270 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1804 221 years ago — 49 years old

Born in Nevis, a key figure in American history emerged as a leading statesman. Played a crucial role in drafting the U.S. Constitution and served as the first Secretary of the Treasury. Established the nation's financial system, creating the first central bank, the Bank of the United States. Advocated for a strong federal government and was influential in shaping economic policy. Contributed to numerous Federalist Papers, promoting the ratification of the Constitution.

Continue Reading

Tom Dumont

Guitarist and producer for No Doubt
Born
January 11th, 1968 57 years ago

A guitarist and music producer, contributed to the band No Doubt, which formed in 1986. Played a significant role in the band's success during the 1990s and early 2000s. The group gained widespread attention with albums such as 'Tragic Kingdom', which featured hit singles like 'Just a Girl' and 'Don't Speak'. Also involved in various side projects, showcasing musical versatility. Produced for other artists and engaged in collaborations within the music industry.

Continue Reading

George Zucco

British actor known for horror films
Born
January 11th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1886, a British actor gained recognition for performances in the horror genre during the 1930s and 1940s. Appeared in significant films including 'The Cat and the Canary', 'The Mummy's Hand', and 'The Ghost of Frankenstein'. Delivered memorable portrayals that contributed to the success of numerous horror classics. His work often involved portraying sinister or villainous characters, establishing a reputation as a prominent figure in cinematic horror.

Continue Reading