Franco Harris
American football player, Super Bowl MVP
American football player was a prominent running back who played primarily for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Harris contributed to the team’s four Super Bowl championships during the 1970s. The player was instrumental in securing the Steelers' victory in Super Bowl IX, earning the Most Valuable Player award. His career spanned from 1972 to 1983, including stints with the Seattle Seahawks. Harris was recognized for his exceptional ability to break tackles and gain yards, becoming one of the team's all-time leading rushers. After retiring from football, Harris engaged in various business ventures and remained active in the sports community.
Winning four Super Bowls with the Steelers
Being MVP of Super Bowl IX
Other People Born on March 7th
Clement XIII
Pope overseeing Church during 18th century
Born
March 7th, 1693 332 years ago
Died
1769 257 years ago — 76 years old
Served as pope from 1758 to 1769. Focused on promoting the Catholic faith during a time of significant political and cultural change in Europe. Advocated for the Jesuit order, supporting its educational missions and international missions. Confronted challenges from Enlightenment thinkers and various governments opposing papal authority. His papacy is noted for the confirmation of the canonization of several saints and the issuance of important papal bulls.
Continue ReadingTammy Faye Messner
Television personality and evangelist
Born
March 7th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 65 years old
An evangelist and television personality, she co-hosted the popular PTL Club alongside her husband, Jim Bakker, during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for her unique personality and emotional appeal, she became a significant figure in the realm of televangelism. After marital difficulties and financial scandals, her public life took new directions, including a successful solo career. She appeared on various talk shows and later became the focus of a biopic that highlighted her life and struggles with public perception and health.
Continue ReadingWilliam Rockhill Nelson
American businessman and publisher
Born
March 7th, 1841 184 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 74 years old
A businessman and publisher established The Kansas City Star, a prominent daily newspaper in Kansas City, Missouri. The publication began in 1880 and provided comprehensive coverage of local and national events. Nelson contributed to the growth of the newspaper industry in the region and played a significant role in the cultural and civic development of Kansas City. He also engaged in various philanthropic endeavors, supporting the establishment of institutions and public projects that benefited the community.
Continue ReadingIvar Ballangrud
Norwegian speed skater and Olympic champion
Born
March 7th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1969 56 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1904, a notable speed skater represented Norway in international competitions. Achieved significant success in the 1930s, particularly in the Winter Olympic Games. Excelled in long-distance events. Set multiple world records during his career and became one of the leading figures in the sport. His victories contributed to Norway's legacy in winter sports.
Continue ReadingNicéphore Niépce
French inventor of the photograph
Born
March 7th, 1765 260 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1833 192 years ago — 68 years old
An inventor from France pioneered the earliest form of photography. In 1826, created the first successful permanent photograph known as 'View from the Window at Le Gras.' Developed a process called 'heliography,' enabling the capturing of images through sunlight exposure on a thin layer of bitumen of Judea.
Continue ReadingRik Mayall
Comedian and actor from 'The Young Ones'
Born
March 7th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 56 years old
Born in England, a prominent comedian and actor emerged in the 1980s. Co-created and starred in the cult television series 'The Young Ones', a significant influence on British comedy. Also featured in 'Bottom', which he co-wrote and performed alongside Ade Edmondson. Success in film included roles in 'Drop Dead Fred' and 'The New Statesman'. Additionally worked as a writer and screenwriter, contributing to the comedic landscape of British television. Regularly performed on stage and was recognized for his unique style of humor.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 20th
Carl Sagan
Astronomer and author of 'Cosmos'
Born
November 9th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1996 29 years ago — 62 years old
An American astronomer and astrophysicist contributed significantly to planetary science and exobiology. Played a crucial role in the Mariner, Viking, Voyager, and Galileo space missions. Authored several books, the most notable being 'Cosmos', which expanded the public understanding of science and astronomy through accessible language and compelling narratives. Served as a proponent for the search for extraterrestrial life and was instrumental in the establishment of the Planetary Society, an organization dedicated to the exploration of space.
Continue ReadingÉmile Loubet
French politician, 7th President of France
Born
December 31st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1929 96 years ago — 90 years old
Became involved in politics, acting as a member of the French National Assembly. Served as Minister of War before assuming the presidency. Elected as the 7th President of France, serving from 1899 to 1906. Focused on reforming the military and improving relations with foreign nations during tenure. Played a significant role in the Dreyfus Affair, advocating for justice and transparency.
Continue ReadingEarle Page
Australian politician and Prime Minister
Born
August 8th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1961 64 years ago — 81 years old
A lawyer and academic, served as the 11th Prime Minister of Australia. Page's political career included significant involvement in the Country Party, where he held the role of leader. He served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health. As Prime Minister, he focused on national development and agricultural initiatives, promoting land settlement. Page was also notable for his contributions to the formation of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation during his time in office. His leadership spanned critical periods in Australian history, contributing to policy and programs that shaped the nation.
Continue ReadingAugustus Quirinus Rivinus
Physician and botanist, Plant Taxonomy
Born
December 9th, 1652 373 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1723 302 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent physician and botanist, contributed significantly to the field of botany during the 17th century. Developed a systematic approach to plant classification, which influenced future botanical studies. Authored several publications that laid the groundwork for modern plant taxonomy. His work emphasized the importance of morphological features in classifying plants, which became a foundation for future botanists. Engaged in the study of medicinal plants and their uses in medicine, merging botanical research with practical applications in healthcare.
Continue ReadingPhilip Fysh
Politician, 12th Premier of Tasmania
Born
March 1st, 1835 190 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1919 106 years ago — 84 years old
Elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly in 1856, served as the 12th Premier of Tasmania from 1876 to 1878. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Tasmanian Railway. Involved in land reform and improved public services during tenure. Contributed to the development of the Tasmanian economy and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingRoy O. Disney
Businessman and co-founder of Disney
Born
June 24th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1971 54 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent American businessman, co-founded The Walt Disney Company alongside his brother. His contributions were pivotal in shaping the early direction of the company, which went on to become a major player in the entertainment industry. He focused on the financial aspects of the business, ensuring operational success and expansion. Under his leadership, the company created iconic works such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Disneyland, which set the stage for future ventures. Roy O. Disney played a crucial role in establishing the Disney brand as a household name in entertainment, fostering relationships that contributed to the company's growth and innovation.
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