F. Scott Fitzgerald

American novelist; The Great Gatsby

F. Scott Fitzgerald - American novelist; The Great Gatsby
Born

September 24th, 1896
128 years ago

Died

December 21st, 1940
84 years ago — 44 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American novelist and short story writer born in 1896, this individual became a prominent figure in literature during the early 20th century. The works frequently explore themes of wealth, society, and the American Dream. The most notable work, 'The Great Gatsby,' published in 1925, portrays the extravagance and disillusionment of the Jazz Age. Additional works include 'This Side of Paradise' and 'Tender Is the Night,' which also reflect contemporary social themes. The individual’s writing style has influenced countless authors and remains a staple of American literature courses today.

Authored 'The Great Gatsby'

Wrote 'This Side of Paradise'

Published 'Tender Is the Night'

Other People Born on September 24th

María Teresa Ruiz

Chilean astronomer and researcher
Born
September 24th, 1946 78 years ago

Born in 1946, a prominent astronomer in Chile. Played a significant role in the discovery of a brown dwarf, a type of astronomical object that is between a giant planet and a small star. Contributed extensively to the fields of astrophysics and stellar evolution. Served as a professor at various universities and involved in scientific research initiatives in Chile and abroad.

Continue Reading

Konstantin Chernenko

Soviet politician, General Secretary
Born
September 24th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1985 40 years ago — 73 years old

Served as General Secretary of the Communist Party and de facto leader of the Soviet Union from 1984 until death in 1985. Took office following the brief tenure of Yuri Andropov. During leadership, focused on continuing policies of his predecessors, including military buildup and a cautious approach to political reform. His term was marked by declining health and significant political challenges, including economic stagnation. Chernenko's leadership style was characterized by conservatism and allegiance to traditional Soviet policies.

Continue Reading

Victoria Pendleton

Cyclist and Olympic gold medalist
Born
September 24th, 1980 44 years ago

Competed in track cycling, achieving significant success in multiple world championships and Olympic competitions. Won gold medals in the women's keirin and women's sprint events at the 2012 London Olympics. Held several world records and secured numerous titles during a prominent career in cycling, notably in sprint events. Retired from competitive cycling in 2012 after a distinguished career.

Continue Reading

María de las Mercedes Adam de Aróstegui

Cuban pianist and composer
Born
September 24th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1873, this Cuban pianist and composer contributed significantly to the classical music landscape in Cuba. She studied under prominent musicians and became a respected figure in the artistic community. Her compositions included works for piano and chamber music. Throughout her career, she performed at numerous venues, showcasing her talents as a pianist and interpreter of classical music. She was actively involved in promoting music education and supporting fellow musicians.

Continue Reading

Nikolas Cruz

American mass murderer at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Born
September 24th, 1998 26 years ago

Born in 1998, a mass shooting occurred at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida on February 14, 2018. The event resulted in the deaths of 17 people and injuries to 17 others. In October 2021, an extensive trial took place, leading to a guilty plea for 17 counts of first-degree murder. The tragic event sparked nationwide conversations about gun control and school safety.

Continue Reading

Richard Bong

American pilot, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
September 24th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1945 79 years ago — 24 years old

Served as a fighter pilot during World War II. Achieved the status of America's highest-scoring ace, with a total of 40 enemy aircraft shot down. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in aerial combat. After the war, continued to serve in the Air Force, where advanced to the rank of major.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 21st

Kurt Tucholsky

Journalist and author of 'Deutschland, Deutschland über alles'
Born
January 9th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1935 89 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1890, this journalist and author contributed significantly to the Weimar Republic's intellectual landscape. As a member of the literary cabaret movement, worked to critique the political and social issues of the time through satire and journalism. Employed various pseudonyms including 'Peter Panter' and 'Theobald Tiger'. Exiled during the rise of the Nazi regime, continued to write from abroad, focusing on German society and politics. Died in 1935, leaving behind a legacy of sharp commentary and literary skill.

Continue Reading

Saparmurat Niyazov

Turkmen politician, first President of Turkmenistan
Born
February 19th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2006 18 years ago — 66 years old

An engineer and politician served as the first President of Turkmenistan from 1990 until 2006. Established a one-party state, consolidating power through constitutional amendments and a cult of personality. Promoted self-identity among the Turkmen people and placed significance on national culture. Implemented extensive control over media and public life, which led to international criticism. Authored the 'Ruhnama,' a spiritual guide meant to shape Turkmen identity and values, which became a mandatory text in education.

Continue Reading

Knud Rasmussen

Danish anthropologist and explorer
Born
June 7th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1933 91 years ago — 54 years old

An anthropologist and explorer, conducted numerous expeditions in the Arctic region. Undertook the Fifth Thule Expedition from 1921 to 1924, collecting valuable ethnographic data on Inuit cultures. Contributed to the understanding of the Inuit and their traditions through writings and fieldwork. Played a significant role in mapping Northern Greenland as well as engaging with Indigenous communities in the region.

Continue Reading

Billie Whitelaw

English actress known for Samuel Beckett roles
Born
1932 93 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2014 10 years ago — 82 years old

An accomplished English actress, she gained recognition for her performances in theater, particularly in works by Samuel Beckett. Whitelaw had a prolific career spanning several decades, transitioning from stage to screen with notable performances in film and television. She starred in the film 'The Omen' and appeared in popular series such as 'The Man in the Glass Booth'. Her collaborations with Beckett included acclaimed productions of 'Play' and 'Not I', showcasing her distinctive talent and dedication to the avant-garde. Throughout her career, she received various awards for her contributions to acting.

Continue Reading

Jack Hobbs

Cricketer and sports journalist
Born
December 16th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1963 61 years ago — 81 years old

Played cricket for England and Surrey during the early 20th century. Established a remarkable reputation as one of the greatest opening batsmen in cricket history. Accumulated over 61,000 first-class runs and 199 centuries. Contributed significantly to the sport both as a player and as a journalist, providing insights and commentary on cricket.

Continue Reading

Vittorio Pozzo

Football coach, led Italy to World Cups
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1968 56 years ago — 82 years old

An influential figure in football, contributed significantly as a coach and manager. Guided the Italian national team to victory in the 1934 and 1938 FIFA World Cups. Developed strategies that showcased tactical innovations and emphasized player development. Held the managerial position for several years, establishing a legacy in Italian football.

Continue Reading