George Henry Thomas
Union General in the American Civil War
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
Billy Hitchcock
Baseball player and manager
Born
July 31st, 1916 110 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2006 20 years ago — 89 years old
An American baseball player and manager, played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop during the 1940s and 1950s. Served with teams such as the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees. Transitioned to coaching and managing roles after retirement, offering insights into player development.
Continue ReadingJosé Fernández
Cuban-American baseball pitcher
Born
July 31st, 1992 34 years ago
Died
September 25th, 2016 9 years ago — 24 years old
Played Major League Baseball for the Miami Marlins. Achieved significant success as a starting pitcher, winning the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2013. Earned selections to the MLB All-Star Game during his career. Born in Cuba, defected to the United States, and quickly made a name in baseball with strong performances on the mound. Tragically passed away in a boating accident in 2016 at a young age, leaving behind a promising career cut short.
Continue ReadingJohn Ericsson
Swedish-American engineer and inventor
Born
July 31st, 1803 223 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1889 137 years ago — 85 years old
Swedish-American engineer and inventor contributed significantly to naval engineering and mechanical design. Developed the first practical marine screw propeller, which transformed naval architecture. Engineered the ironclad warship USS Monitor during the American Civil War, notable for its battle against the CSS Virginia. His work in steam power included the design of various ships and improvements in engine efficiency.
Continue ReadingMarion Talbot
Educator and advocate for women's education
Born
July 31st, 1858 168 years ago
Died
1948 78 years ago — 90 years old
Marion Talbot played a significant role in advancing women's education in the United States. She served as the first dean of women at the University of Chicago and contributed to the establishment of various educational institutions for women. Talbot was actively involved in national organizations that focused on education and women's rights. Her leadership helped shape policies that improved access to higher education for women, promoting the importance of academic advancement and professional opportunities.
Continue ReadingPaul Du Chaillu
Anthropologist and zoologist, explorer
Born
July 31st, 1835 191 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1903 123 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed to the understanding of African cultures and wildlife. Conducted extensive explorations in Equatorial Africa, bringing back significant information and specimens. Published works on gorillas, which spurred interest in primate studies, including 'Explorations and Adventures in Equatorial Africa'. Engaged in debates regarding the existence of gorillas and played a role in disseminating knowledge about the region's biodiversity and indigenous peoples.
Continue ReadingCurt Gowdy
American sportscaster and television host
Born
July 31st, 1919 107 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2006 20 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent sportscaster in the United States, played a significant role in the evolution of sports broadcasting. Served as the lead announcer for the Boston Red Sox from 1951 to 1965, bringing baseball to television audiences. Became known for broadcasting the Super Bowl and other major sports events. Worked with NBC Sports and ABC Sports, where coverage of the World Series and college football became notable. Received several accolades for contributions to sports broadcasting, including a Sports Emmy Award and induction into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 28th
Pope Martin IV
Pope with papacy during the 13th century
Died
March 28th, 1285 741 years ago — None years old
Served as pope from 1281 until death in 1285. Elected following the papacy's return to Rome, focused on restoring order within the church and consolidating papal power. Engaged in political maneuvering to counteract the influence of powerful families in Italy, particularly in Rome and Sicily. Advocated for church reform and addressed issues related to clerical misconduct during tenure as pope. His papacy also coincided with conflicts involving Charles I of Anjou and the ongoing struggles for control in Sicily.
Continue ReadingWilliam Giauque
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 12th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1982 44 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent chemist and academic, engaged in significant research in thermodynamics, particularly at low temperatures. Contributed to the understanding of the physical behavior of substances. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1949 for pioneering work in the field of chemical thermodynamics. Served as a professor and influenced numerous students and researchers in the discipline.
Continue ReadingMiroslav Ondříček
Czech cinematographer of 'Amadeus'
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2015 11 years ago — 81 years old
A Czech cinematographer, contributions spanned several decades in film. Collaborated with prominent directors, particularly Milos Forman. Captured striking visuals for acclaimed films such as 'Amadeus' and 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'. Received multiple awards for cinematography, recognized for creating compelling imagery that enhanced storytelling.
Continue ReadingLomer Gouin
Quebec Premier and lawyer
Born
March 19th, 1861 165 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1929 97 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1861, this individual served as the Premier of Quebec from 1905 to 1920. As a member of the Liberal Party, significant legislative achievements occurred during the tenure, including improvements in education and public infrastructure. Engaged in provincial politics, this individual was also a prominent lawyer, contributing to legal reforms and the development of the legal profession in Quebec.
Continue ReadingIvan the Terrible
Russian Tsar and first ruler of Russia
Born
August 25th, 1530 496 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1584 442 years ago — 53 years old
Ruled as the Tsar of Russia from 1547 until death in 1584. The first ruler to be crowned as Tsar, Ivan centralized power and expanded the territory of Russia. Through military campaigns, he expanded into Siberia, gaining significant land and resources. His reign was marked by the establishment of the Oprichnina, a policy that involved political repression and the creation of a loyal military force. His legacy is characterized by both his expansionist policies and the sociopolitical turmoil of his reign.
Continue ReadingLorenzo Semple Jr.
Screenwriter for Batman (1966) TV series
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
March 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent American screenwriter and producer, contributed significantly to the film and television industry. Best recognized for the 1960s television series 'Batman,' which blended camp humor and superhero action. Worked on various projects, including adaptations and original screenplays for television and film, bringing a unique style to the works. Collaborated with notable directors and writers throughout a prolific career, leaving a lasting legacy in screenwriting.
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