Fireball Roberts

Race car driver and NASCAR pioneer

Fireball Roberts - Athletes & Sports Figures born January 20th, 1929
Born
Died
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential figure in early NASCAR, contributed to the popularity of stock car racing during the 1950s. Achieved significant success on the circuit, winning numerous races and becoming a top contender. In 1962, secured victory in the prestigious Daytona 500. Known for a driving style that combined speed and strategy, raced for teams like Fireball Racing. His career came to an untimely end due to injuries sustained in a crash during the 1964 season.

Won the 1962 Daytona 500

Achieved 33 career wins in NASCAR

Other People Born on January 20th

George Burns

American actor and comedian in vaudeville
Born
January 20th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1996 29 years ago — 100 years old

Born in 1896, this individual gained fame as a comedian and actor, particularly through a successful partnership with Gracie Allen in vaudeville. The duo's radio show, 'The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show,' became a staple of American entertainment in the 1940s and 1950s. The transition to television further solidified popularity, showcasing their comedic talents and unique dynamic. Later years included performance in film, with significant roles in 'The Sunshine Boys' and 'Oh, God!.' Recognition included winning multiple Emmy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This individual continued to perform and entertain into advanced age, demonstrating lasting appeal and significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Fredrik Strømstad

Norwegian footballer, former midfielder
Born
January 20th, 1982 43 years ago

Born in 1982, a professional footballer played predominantly as a midfielder. Played for clubs such as Aalesund, IK Start, and Brann. Accumulated experience in various leagues, contributing to team dynamics and performance. Represented Norway at different levels, including participation in the national youth teams.

Continue Reading

Philippe Gagnon

Canadian swimmer and Olympian
Born
January 20th, 1980 45 years ago

Competed in freestyle swimming, representing Canada at multiple international competitions. Participated in the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Achieved significant success in national and international events, earning recognition as a skilled swimmer. Set Canadian records in various freestyle events throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Calum Chambers

English footballer at Arsenal FC
Born
January 20th, 1995 30 years ago

Professional footballer played as a defender. Began career at Southampton, progressing through the youth ranks to make senior appearances. Signed by Arsenal in July 2014, contributing to the team's defense over multiple seasons. Played on loan for Middlesbrough and Fulham, gaining further experience in the Premier League and Championship. Represented England at various youth levels, showcasing talent in international competitions.

Continue Reading

Harold Gray

Cartoonist, creator of Little Orphan Annie
Born
January 20th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1968 57 years ago — 74 years old

An American cartoonist created the comic strip Little Orphan Annie, which debuted in 1924. The strip featured the adventures of an orphan girl and her dog, Sandy, and became a significant part of American culture. It was celebrated for its themes of optimism and resilience during the Great Depression. The character of Annie was adapted into various forms of media, including a popular Broadway musical and several film adaptations. The work received both critical and popular acclaim, leading to widespread recognition and lasting popularity.

Continue Reading

Gordian III

Roman Emperor during Crisis of the Third Century
Born
January 20th, 225 1800 years ago
Died
February 11th, 244 1781 years ago — 19 years old

Ascended to the throne at a young age, ruling as Roman Emperor from 238 to 244. The reign occurred during a turbulent period known as the Crisis of the Third Century. Financed defensive campaigns against external threats and focused on restoring stability within the empire. Engaged in military campaigns against the Persian Empire, achieving initial successes. The leadership style was characterized by dependence on senior advisors and military commanders.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 2nd

Alan Longmuir

Scottish bass player and songwriter
Born
June 20th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2018 7 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent bass player and songwriter contributed significantly to the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s. Co-founded the band Bay City Rollers, which gained immense popularity with their upbeat pop sound and catchy melodies. The group achieved multiple chart-topping hits across the globe, with a notable presence in the UK and the US. Longmuir's musical talents and contributions were integral to the band's success during its heyday, including several albums that charted well.

Continue Reading

Lee Iacocca

Businessman and author, Chrysler CEO
Born
October 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old

An influential businessman and author, played a pivotal role in the automotive industry, particularly as CEO of Chrysler Corporation during the 1980s. Oversaw Chrysler's revival from the brink of bankruptcy, implementing innovative strategies that included the introduction of popular vehicles such as the Dodge Caravan and the Chrysler minivan. Authored several books, with 'Iacocca: An Autobiography' gaining significant popularity, detailing personal experiences and business philosophies. Contributed to automotive advancements and consumer-focused marketing approaches, shaping the landscape of American cars during his tenure. His leadership style and business acumen were widely recognized within the industry.

Continue Reading

Elie Wiesel

Holocaust survivor and human rights activist
Born
September 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

Survived the Holocaust and documented the experience in literature. Authored the memoir 'Night', which recounts experiences in Nazi concentration camps. Became a prominent advocate for human rights and spoke out against oppression worldwide. Founded the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity, focusing on education and promoting understanding between people.

Continue Reading

Patrick Manning

Trinidadian politician, former Prime Minister
Born
August 17th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the fourth Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1991 to 1995 and again from 2001 to 2010. Held leadership roles in the People's National Movement and contributed to various legislative reforms during time in office. Participated in regional and international politics, advocating for issues affecting the Caribbean.

Continue Reading

Douglas Engelbart

Computer Scientist, Inventor of the Mouse
Born
January 30th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 88 years old

A pioneer in computer science, contributed significantly to the development of human-computer interaction. Innovated the computer mouse, which became a central component of personal computing. Engaged in early work on collaborative software and graphical user interfaces. Founded the Augment Corporation to further research in computer augmentation of human intellect.

Continue Reading

Lee Remick

American actress, starred in Days of Wine and Roses
Born
December 14th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1991 34 years ago — 55 years old

An acclaimed actress, this individual gained recognition for roles in film and television. Early performances included work in theater productions before transitioning to film. Major roles included Sandy in 'Days of Wine and Roses' and the lead in 'The Omen'. Throughout a successful career, received several award nominations, including Academy Award and Emmy Award nominations. Contributions to both film and television showcased range and depth of talent.

Continue Reading