George Henry Thomas

Union General in the American Civil War

George Henry Thomas - Union General in the American Civil War
Born

July 31st, 1816
208 years ago

Died

March 28th, 1870
155 years ago — 53 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent Union general during the American Civil War, played a crucial role in several significant battles. Graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1840 and initially served in the Mexican-American War. Commanded Union forces at the Battle of Chickamauga and the Battle of Nashville, where decisive victories were achieved against Confederate troops. Earned the nickname 'Rock of Chickamauga' for steadfastness during the Battle of Chickamauga. After the war, served in various military roles, including overseeing the Department of the Cumberland.

Played a key role in the Union victory at the Battle of Nashville

Earned the nickname 'Rock of Chickamauga' at the Battle of Chickamauga

Other People Born on July 31st

Gabriel Cramer

Swiss mathematician and physicist
Born
July 31st, 1704 320 years ago
Died
1752 273 years ago — 48 years old

A mathematician and physicist from Switzerland, contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics in the 18th century. Cramer is recognized for formulating Cramer's Rule, which provides a solution to linear equations using determinants, an essential method in linear algebra. Cramer also published works on geometry and mechanics, influencing future generations of mathematicians and scientists. His contributions laid the groundwork for many modern mathematical techniques.

Continue Reading

Kim Newman

English journalist and author of horror fiction
Born
July 31st, 1959 65 years ago

Born in 1959, engaged in journalism and fiction writing, focusing primarily on horror and speculative genres. Contributed to various publications, including Time Out and The Independent. Authored several novels, with the 'Anno Dracula' series being particularly recognized. The series blends historical figures with fictional narratives, attracting a dedicated readership. Participated in writing for film and television while appearing as a commentator on genre cinema.

Continue Reading

Bryan Hextall

Ice hockey player and NHL All-Star
Born
July 31st, 1913 111 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1984 40 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Canada, this ice hockey player played primarily for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL). A forward, he was recognized for his playing style and scoring ability during the late 1930s and early 1940s. This athlete participated in four NHL All-Star Games and contributed to the Rangers’ success during his tenure. After his playing career, he served as a coach and scout, further influencing the sport.

Continue Reading

Tim Wright

Welsh composer of video game music
Born
July 31st, 1967 57 years ago

A Welsh composer gained recognition primarily for creating music for video games. His work includes contributions to popular titles such as 'Descent' and 'Quake'. Wright has a background in both classical and electronic music, which influenced his compositions across various genres within the gaming industry. Collaborating with several developers, he contributed to the soundtracks that enhanced the gaming experience during the 1990s and early 2000s. His innovative use of sound has been noted for elevating the audio landscape of interactive entertainment.

Continue Reading

José Canalejas

Spanish Prime Minister and academic
Born
July 31st, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Spain from 1910 until 1912. Focused on progressive reforms during his administration, addressing issues such as labor rights and social justice. Promoted educational initiatives and reforms in public policy. His tenure ended with his assassination in 1912, which marked a significant point in Spanish political history. Canalejas also contributed to academic discourse in Spain.

Continue Reading

Russell Morris

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 31st, 1948 76 years ago

Born in 1948, this Australian musician emerged in the late 1960s and gained prominence with his hit singles. His most significant work includes the classic 'The Real Thing,' which became a major success in Australia. He has released numerous albums throughout his career, showcasing a mix of rock and pop. Additionally, this artist is recognized for contributions to the Australian music scene, with influences from various genres. His songwriting and unique voice have left a lasting legacy in Australian music.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 28th

Anthony Powell

English soldier and author
Born
December 21st, 1905 119 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2000 25 years ago — 94 years old

Served in the British Army during World War II. Began writing novels after the war, with a significant focus on English society. Authored the twelve-volume work 'A Dance to the Music of Time,' which explored themes of time, memory, and the passage of life. Received various literary accolades during a prolific writing career, contributing essays and criticism as well.

Continue Reading

Chuck Brayton

Baseball coach and player at Washington State
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent baseball player and coach, contributed significantly to collegiate baseball. Played for the Washington State Cougars during the 1950s and achieved All-American honors. Transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for Washington State for over two decades, where led the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and a conference championship.

Continue Reading

Edmund Kirby Smith

American Civil War general
Born
May 16th, 1824 200 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1893 132 years ago — 68 years old

Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Played a significant role in key battles, including the Battle of First Manassas and the Battle of Chattanooga. Commanded the Trans-Mississippi Department and led forces in various campaigns across the southern United States. After the war, worked as a professor and held administrative roles in higher education.

Continue Reading

Modest Mussorgsky

Russian composer of 'Pictures at an Exhibition'
Born
March 21st, 1839 186 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1881 144 years ago — 42 years old

A Russian composer and pianist contributed significantly to classical music in the 19th century. Mussorgsky's work emphasized national themes and folklore, showcasing the collective identity of Russia. He co-founded the group known as 'The Mighty Handful,' which aimed to create a distinctly Russian style of classical music. Mussorgsky's compositions include operas, piano works, and orchestral pieces, with 'Pictures at an Exhibition' being one of his most celebrated works. The piece, originally composed for piano, was later orchestrated by Maurice Ravel and remains a staple of classical repertoire. His opera 'Boris Godunov' is also frequently performed, highlighting his innovative approach to dramatic storytelling through music.

Continue Reading

Miguel Hernández

Spanish poet and playwright
Born
October 30th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1942 83 years ago — 31 years old

A prominent figure in 20th-century Spanish literature, focused on themes of love, nature, and social justice. His literary career was marked by the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War, during which many of his works were written. Hernández's poem collection, 'Perito en Lunas', showcased his mastery of metaphor and was published in 1937. His works faced censorship under the Franco regime, leading to imprisonment. Despite this, his poetry maintained a significant cultural legacy in Spain and beyond. His untimely death in 1942 occurred while he was incarcerated, but his influence continues to resonate in the Spanish literary canon.

Continue Reading

Dick Haymes

Argentinian-American actor and singer
Born
September 13th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1980 45 years ago — 61 years old

An Argentinian-American actor and singer achieved significant success in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s. Haymes gained a reputation as a prominent vocalist, known for performances in musicals and popular songs. He starred in several films such as 'Irish Eyes Are Smiling,' 'State Fair,' and 'The Desert Song.' His smooth baritone voice resonated with audiences and led to multiple hit records. Haymes also appeared on various radio shows, further establishing a presence in the entertainment industry. Later years included performances in nightclubs and a noteworthy stage career.

Continue Reading