Gemma Spofforth

English swimmer and world record holder

Gemma Spofforth - Athletes & Sports Figures born November 17th, 1987
Born
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An accomplished swimmer, achieved significant success in international competitions. Competed for Great Britain at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Captured three gold medals at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, excelling in backstroke events. Set a world record in the 100-meter backstroke in 2009, becoming a prominent figure in the swim community. Represented the University of Florida in collegiate competitions, contributing to multiple NCAA titles during the time.

Set a world record in 100m backstroke

Won three gold medals at 2010 Commonwealth Games

Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics

Other People Born on November 17th

Dennis Maruk

Ice Hockey Player, 1982 All-Star
Born
November 17th, 1955 70 years ago

A professional ice hockey player, played primarily as a center during the 1970s and 1980s. Started career with the California Golden Seals and also played for the Cleveland Barons, Washington Capitals, and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved a notable milestone in the 1975-76 season by scoring 96 points, leading to an All-Star selection in 1982. Retired with significant career statistics, including over 800 points in the National Hockey League.

Continue Reading

Rem Koolhaas

Architect known for Seattle Central Library
Born
November 17th, 1944 81 years ago

A prominent Dutch architect and academic, contributed significantly to contemporary architecture through innovative designs and theoretical work. Founded the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), which has been influential in redefining architectural practices. Received the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2000, recognizing a career marked by a series of impactful projects and writings, including the book 'Delirious New York'. Designed notable buildings across the globe, emphasizing urbanism and the implications of contemporary life.

Continue Reading

Gotthilf Heinrich Ernst Muhlenberg

Botanist and American pastor
Born
November 17th, 1753 272 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1815 210 years ago — 61 years old

An influential pastor and botanist who contributed significantly to the field of botany. Specialized in the classification of North American plants and is often referred to as the father of American botany. Worked extensively on flora cataloging and provided descriptions of numerous plant species. His work laid foundational knowledge for future botanists and enhanced scientific understanding of North American ecosystems.

Continue Reading

Sima Guang

Chinese historian and politician
Born
November 17th, 1019 1006 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1086 939 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent Song dynasty historian and politician. Played a significant role in the compilation of historical works. Authored the historical text 'Zizhi Tongjian,' which provides a comprehensive account of Chinese history from the Warring States to the Song dynasty. Served as a high-ranking official in government, contributing to political discourse and decision-making. Actively engaged in political affairs and governance.

Continue Reading

Gordon Lightfoot

Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 1st, 2023 2 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent figure in folk and rock music, this artist achieved significant success through impactful songwriting and powerful performances. Notable for crafting timeless tracks that resonate with audiences globally, contributions to the genre include an extensive catalog of music spanning several decades. The artist's distinct voice and guitar work featured prominently in albums that received critical acclaim. A career marked by numerous accolades and recognitions culminated in induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, showcasing a legacy that continues to influence musicians worldwide.

Continue Reading

Korbinian Brodmann

Neurologist known for brain mapping
Born
November 17th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1918 107 years ago — 49 years old

Contributed significantly to neuroscience through the development of a cytoarchitectonic map of the human brain. The classification, known as Brodmann areas, identified 52 distinct regions based on differences in cellular structure. Worked in various academic institutions, primarily focusing on the anatomical structure of the cerebral cortex. Published influential research that laid the groundwork for modern brain studies and neuroanatomy.

Continue Reading