Freda Meissner-Blau
Austrian activist and politician
Born in 1927, an Austrian activist and politician committed to environmentalism and social justice. Co-founded the Austrian Green Party in 1986, advocating for ecological responsibility and sustainability. Served as a member of the Austrian Parliament from 1990 to 1994, representing the interests of green politics. Known for active participation in campaigns addressing nuclear safety, climate change, and civil rights.
Co-founded the Austrian Green Party
Served in the Austrian Parliament from 1990-1994
Other People Born on March 11th
Orlando Johnson
Professional basketball player
Born
March 11th, 1989 37 years ago
Started a basketball career in college at UC Santa Barbara, where earned All-Big West Conference honors. Drafted in 2012 by the Indiana Pacers, played as a shooting guard in the NBA. Additionally, played in international leagues, contributing to teams in the Philippines and the NBA G League. Experience includes playing for the Pacers and several other teams, displaying strong scoring and playmaking abilities.
Continue ReadingWarwick Taylor
Rugby player, 1987 World Cup champion
Born
March 11th, 1960 66 years ago
Played as a centre for the New Zealand national rugby team during the 1980s and early 1990s. Contributed to the team's success in the inaugural 1987 Rugby World Cup, securing the title. Played club rugby for various teams, including the Waikato. Noted for strong performances and tactical skills on the field.
Continue ReadingArturo Merzario
Italian race car driver and team owner
Born
March 11th, 1943 83 years ago
Competed in Formula One racing from 1970 to 1976, participating in 43 races. Achieved notable success with private teams, securing his first Formula One entry with the Merzario team. Participated in prestigious events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with multiple entries. Transitioned into a career as a team owner and manager after retiring from driving.
Continue ReadingRonald Syme
Historian and scholar of ancient Rome
Born
March 11th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1989 36 years ago — 86 years old
Born in New Zealand, a historian specialized in the history of ancient Rome. Contributed significantly to the understanding of Roman political history. The influential work 'The Roman Revolution' examined the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. Held academic positions at the University of New Zealand and later at Oxford University, shaping the field of ancient history through research and scholarship.
Continue ReadingNikolai Topor-Stanley
Australian footballer and defender
Born
March 11th, 1985 41 years ago
A professional footballer recognized for playing as a defender in the A-League. Played for several teams including Newcastle Jets and Perth Glory. Contributed significantly to his teams' defensive strategies and participated in various seasons of the A-League, showcasing strong performances throughout his career.
Continue ReadingMatti Sippala
Finnish javelin thrower, Olympic medalist
Born
March 11th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 89 years old
Competed in javelin throwing and represented Finland in international competitions. Achieved success at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, where earned a silver medal in javelin toss. Participated in the World Championships and various European events, showcasing athletic skill and technique.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 22nd
Paddy Ashdown
British politician and soldier
Born
February 27th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2018 7 years ago — 77 years old
Served as a British soldier in the Royal Marines and later became a prominent politician. Co-founded the Liberal Democrat party in 1988 and served as its first leader until 1999. Represented Yeovil in the House of Commons and played a significant role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Worked on various international assignments, including the role of High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Continue ReadingJohn Newbery
English publisher and children's author
Born
1713 313 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1767 258 years ago — 54 years old
Established the first children's book publishing house. Published 'A Little Pretty Pocket-Book' in 1744, considered one of the first texts aimed specifically at children. Advocated for children's literature at a time when such works were scarce. His efforts laid the groundwork for future developments in the genre.
Continue ReadingMaximilien de Béthune
Duke of Sully and Prime Minister of France
Born
December 13th, 1560 465 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1641 384 years ago — 81 years old
Born into nobility, held significant political influence in France. Served as the Duke of Sully and as the second Prime Minister under King Henry IV. Implemented financial reforms that improved the economy and established a centralized administration. Guided policies that aimed to promote peace and stabilize the kingdom after years of civil war. Strengthened the infrastructure, enhancing trade and agricultural production. Influenced the shaping of French policies during the early 17th century.
Continue ReadingJean-Victor Poncelet
Mathematician known for projective geometry
Born
July 1st, 1788 238 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1867 158 years ago — 79 years old
A mathematician and engineer, contributions largely centered around projective geometry. Pioneered the concepts of duality and the principle of continuity in geometry. Served as an officer in the French army and participated in the Napoleonic Wars. After being captured, imprisonment in Russia prompted introspection and work on mathematical theories. Authored 'Traité des propriétés projectives des figures,' which became a significant text in mathematics. Believed to have influenced future developments in geometry and algebra, establishing a foundation for further research in these fields.
Continue ReadingAmelie Beese
Pioneer pilot and sculptor
Born
September 13th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1925 100 years ago — 39 years old
Became one of the first female pilots in Germany, earning a pilot's license in 1911. Played a significant role in the early aviation movement, demonstrating flying skills at various events. As a sculptor, created works that combined her interest in aviation with artistic expression, influencing subsequent artists. Contributed to the visibility of women in aviation during a time when the profession was dominated by men.
Continue ReadingAristeidis Moraitinis
Greek lieutenant and pilot
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1918 107 years ago — 27 years old
Served as a lieutenant and pilot during World War I. Played a significant role in the Hellenic Air Force, contributing to aerial combat and reconnaissance missions. Demonstrated exceptional skills and leadership in aviation during a pivotal time in military history. Died in action, marking a notable sacrifice in service to country.
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