Frank Zamboni
Ice resurfacing machine inventor
An American businessman and inventor developed the first successful ice resurfacing machine in 1949, revolutionizing the maintenance of ice rinks. This invention enhanced the quality of ice for skating and hockey, making it more accessible and safe for players. The machine became a staple in rinks across the world, enabling a more efficient way to create optimal skating conditions. The brand name Zamboni became synonymous with ice resurfacing due to its widespread adoption.
Invented the ice resurfacing machine in 1949
Founded Zamboni Company
Other People Born on January 16th
Lin-Manuel Miranda
Actor, playwright, composer of Hamilton
Born
January 16th, 1980 46 years ago
An influential figure in theater, created the musical Hamilton, which redefined the genre by incorporating hip-hop into the narrative of American history. Wrote and starred in the musical In the Heights, which also received critical acclaim. Served as a composer and lyricist for various projects in film and television, including contributions to Disney's Moana. Involved in numerous advocacy efforts for arts education and disaster relief efforts.
Continue ReadingTre'Davious White
American football cornerback, Pro Bowler
Born
January 16th, 1995 31 years ago
Played college football at Louisiana State University, where earned consensus All-American honors. Selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. Became a key player for the Bills' defense, recognized for excellent coverage skills and ball-hawking ability. Achieved Pro Bowl selections and made significant contributions to the team's postseason appearances.
Continue ReadingNicklas Bendtner
Danish footballer and striker for Arsenal
Born
January 16th, 1988 38 years ago
A professional footballer from Denmark, began career at Ajax before moving to Arsenal in 2006. Played as a striker, gaining recognition for performances in the Premier League and international matches. Served as a key player for the Danish national team, participating in UEFA Euro tournaments and earning over 30 caps. Later, played for various clubs including Juventus and VfL Wolfsburg, contributing to team successes across different leagues.
Continue ReadingStephan Lichtsteiner
Footballer, UEFA Euro 2008 participant
Born
January 16th, 1984 42 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a right-back. Started his career at Grasshopper Club Zürich, contributing to the team's success in the Swiss Super League. Later joined Lazio, winning the Coppa Italia in 2013. Transferred to Juventus, where he secured multiple Serie A titles and noted contributions to the team's performances in the UEFA Champions League. Represented the Swiss national team, featuring in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups.
Continue ReadingGreedy Smith
Singer-songwriter and keyboardist for Mental As Anything
Born
January 16th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 63 years old
A musician and songwriter from Australia, contributed significantly to the rock and pop music scene. Co-founded the band Mental As Anything in 1976, which became popular in the late 1970s and 1980s. The group was known for its catchy tunes and energetic performances. Alongside playing the keyboard and providing vocals, crafted several songs that achieved commercial success. The band was a prominent part of Australia’s music scene, especially noted for the hit 'Live It Up'. Greedy Smith's contributions to music extended beyond performing, as involvement in songwriting played a crucial role in the band’s distinctive sound.
Continue ReadingViktor Maslov
Russian racing driver
Born
January 16th, 1976 50 years ago
Born in 1976, a racing driver from Russia achieved recognition in the motorsport world primarily through participation in various championships. Active in the early 2000s, competed in several racing series, showcasing skills in competitive driving. Gained attention for performances in touring car racing and national championships, earning a reputation for consistent results and technical understanding of vehicles.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 27th
Horst Stein
Conductor, led major orchestras worldwide
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2008 17 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Germany, later became a Swiss conductor. Stein studied music at the Hochschule für Musik in Berlin. He gained prominence as a conductor with various leading orchestras, notably the Berlin State Opera and the Zurich Opera. He led numerous performances of classical repertoire and contemporary works. Stein was also a guest conductor with several orchestras around the world, including the London Philharmonic and Vienna Philharmonic, and made many recordings.
Continue ReadingCharles Fryatt
English captain during World War I
Born
1872 154 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1916 109 years ago — 44 years old
Served as a captain in the British Merchant Navy. On March 24, 1916, while commanding the vessel SS Brussels, engaged in a confrontation with a German U-boat. Successfully rammed the submarine, which became a significant act of defiance during the war. Captured by German forces later that year and faced a court-martial for his actions against the U-boat. Executed on July 27, 1916, for his defiance and perceived act of war against Germany.
Continue ReadingA. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Indian engineer and 11th President of India
Born
October 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 83 years old
An engineer and academic, served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. Contributed significantly to India's space and missile programs, particularly during tenure at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Instrumental in the development of the Agni and Prithvi missiles. After presidency, engaged in teaching and writing, focusing on inspiring the youth and promoting education.
Continue ReadingR. G. Armstrong
American actor and playwright
Born
April 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent figure in American theatre and film, this actor had a significant presence on both stage and screen. Work included roles in films such as 'The Great White Hope' and 'The Longest Yard', along with television appearances in series like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Gunsmoke'. In addition to acting, also contributed as a playwright, showcasing talents in crafting narratives. Spanning a career that included performances across multiple genres, became recognized for versatility as an actor. Active in the industry for several decades, left a lasting imprint on both contemporary and classic theatrical productions.
Continue ReadingNorman Alden
American Actor in film and television
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
An accomplished actor active from the 1950s through the 2000s, contributed to both television and film. Worked extensively in voice acting, lending talent to animated series and films. Featured in significant roles across various platforms, including guest appearances on popular television shows. Made notable contributions to the cinema as well, including appearances in films that achieved cult status.
Continue ReadingKidd Kraddick
Radio host and media personality
Born
1959 67 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 54 years old
This individual became a prominent radio host recognized for the nationally syndicated morning radio show, The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show. The show aired for over 20 years, gaining a large audience and influencing the landscape of morning radio. Aside from radio, this person ventured into television, hosting the reality show Kidd's Kids on the WB network. Philanthropic efforts included the establishment of the Kidd's Kids charity, which aimed to provide trips for children with chronic illnesses. His charisma and engaging style made the show a staple in many households until his passing in 2013.
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