George Byng
Royal Navy admiral and 1st Viscount Torrington
Born
Died
1733
292 years ago — 70 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Born in 1663, an admiral in the Royal Navy, served with distinction during the War of the Spanish Succession. Played a crucial role in the Battle of Cape Passaro in 1718, leading British forces to victory. Became the 1st Viscount Torrington in recognition of military service. Instrumental in naval operations and contributed to British maritime strategy in the early 18th century.
Led British fleet to victory at the Battle of Cape Passaro
Named 1st Viscount Torrington in 1718
Other People Born on January 27th
Hendrick Avercamp
Dutch painter of winter scenes
Born
January 27th, 1585 440 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1634 391 years ago — 49 years old
Born in Amsterdam in 1585, this painter specialized in creating winter landscapes with lively scenes of ice skating and festivities. Avercamp spent most of his life in the Dutch city of Kampen. He became a master of depicting the joys of winter sports and outdoor activities, which were popular in the Netherlands during the 17th century. The artist's concise compositions often featured densely populated ice scenes, filled with characters engaging in various activities. His work offers a glimpse into the daily life and leisure pursuits of people in the early modern period. Avercamp's style combined a clear sense of realism with a meticulous attention to detail, making his paintings highly regarded and well-studied. Many of his pieces are celebrated for their intricate depictions of movement and vibrant atmosphere.
Continue ReadingEva Asderaki
Tennis Umpire at Grand Slam events
Born
January 27th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in Greece in 1982, a prominent tennis umpire with significant presence in major tournaments. Officiated at Grand Slam events including Wimbledon and the US Open. Became notable for handling high-profile matches, gaining recognition for skill and professionalism. Pioneered opportunities for women in officiating roles within the sport. Continues to contribute to tennis through mentorship and training for upcoming officials.
Continue ReadingChanda Gunn
Ice hockey player and coach, Olympic silver
Born
January 27th, 1980 45 years ago
Played as a goaltender for the U.S. women's national ice hockey team, participating in the 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympics. Contributed to the team's silver medal victory in the 2006 Turin Olympics. Played in the NCAA for the University of Wisconsin and later transitioned to coaching, mentoring young athletes in the sport. Held various coaching positions, emphasizing skill development and teamwork.
Continue ReadingJohn Eccles
Neurophysiologist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 27th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1997 28 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent neurophysiologist and academic whose research significantly advanced the understanding of synaptic transmission. Authored numerous influential papers and textbooks in the field of neurobiology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1963 for discoveries concerning the ionic mechanisms involved in excitation and inhibition in the peripheral and central portions of the nervous system.
Continue ReadingMordecai Richler
Canadian author and screenwriter
Born
January 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 2001 24 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent author and screenwriter, this figure contributed significantly to Canadian literature. Born in 1931, the individual developed a unique voice that captured the complexities of identity and culture in Montreal. Works include novels such as "The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz" and "St. Urbain's Horseman," which explore themes of ambition and self-discovery. The individual also wrote screenplays, including adaptations of his own works, and received numerous awards for literary contributions.
Continue ReadingFrancis Rogallo
Engineer, inventor of the Rogallo wing
Born
January 27th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 97 years old
An engineer contributed significantly to the development of flexible wings. The Rogallo wing design was initially created for use in hang gliding but later adapted for space exploration. This design was utilized in various NASA programs, including the Gemini and Apollo missions. His work laid the foundation for modern paragliding and influenced the design of spacecraft recovery systems.
Continue Reading