George Washington Goethals
American general overseeing Panama Canal
Born
Died
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An American general and engineer played a pivotal role in the construction of the Panama Canal. Appointed as the chief engineer of the Panama Canal project, led efforts that successfully completed the canal, an engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Oversaw the transition from French to American construction efforts and implemented significant health measures to control diseases such as yellow fever and malaria that plagued workers. Was appointed as the first governor of the Panama Canal Zone after the canal's completion, managing its operations and governance.
Oversaw the completion of the Panama Canal
Served as the first governor of the Panama Canal Zone
Other People Born on June 29th
Francis W. Nye
Major General in the Air Force
Born
June 29th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 101 years old
Served as a major general in the United States Air Force and played a significant role during the Cold War era. Oversaw various operations related to strategic air command and management. Contributed to the development of air power strategies that shaped military doctrine. Held leadership positions that involved planning and executing key military initiatives. Engaged in efforts to enhance the operational readiness of the Air Force and ensure national security during pivotal moments in history.
Continue ReadingRuth Warrick
American actress from Citizen Kane
Born
June 29th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2005 20 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent actress with a career that spanned several decades. Gained initial recognition through a role in the film 'Citizen Kane' as Emily Norton, the first wife of the titular character. Starred in the soap opera 'All My Children' as Phoebe Tyler from its inception in 1970 until 1999, becoming one of the show's iconic figures. Alongside acting, contributed to radio and television productions, showcasing talent across different media.
Continue ReadingGeorge Ellery Hale
Astronomer and solar observatory founder
Born
June 29th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1938 87 years ago — 69 years old
Contributions to astronomy included founding several observatories. Developed the solar telescope and made significant discoveries about the sun, including the existence of sunspots. Established the Mount Wilson Observatory in California, which advanced astrophysical research. Pioneered the use of spectroscopy in astrophysics and contributed to the understanding of stellar evolution.
Continue ReadingSam Lavagnino
Child voice actor in animation
Born
June 29th, 2006 19 years ago
Lavagnino gained recognition as a voice actor in animated series and films. Early in the career, provided voices for various characters, showcasing talent in animation. Contributed to well-known projects, including roles in 'The Lion Guard' and 'DuckTales'. Also lent voice to characters in video games, broadening the reach in the industry.
Continue ReadingCésar Rodríguez Álvarez
Spanish footballer and manager
Born
June 29th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1995 30 years ago — 74 years old
Played as a forward for FC Barcelona and became one of the club's top scorers. Transitioned to a managerial role after retirement, leading teams in various leagues. Contributed to the development of football in Spain both as a player and a coach.
Continue ReadingLouis Nicollin
Entrepreneur and Montpellier HSC chairman
Born
June 29th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2017 8 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent French entrepreneur served as the chairman of Montpellier HSC from 1974 until death in 2017. Under leadership, the football club experienced significant growth and success, including winning the Ligue 1 title in 2012. The focus on developing local talent and building a competitive team contributed to the club's prominence in French football throughout the years. Nicollin's business ventures extended beyond football, including a successful waste management company that played a key role in his achievements.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 21st
Bill Johnson
American alpine ski racer and champion
Born
March 30th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
January 21st, 2016 9 years ago — 55 years old
An alpine ski racer achieved significant success in the 1980s, claiming the gold medal in the men's downhill at the 1984 Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo. This victory marked a historic moment as the first American man to win Olympic gold in downhill skiing. Competed on the World Cup circuit, securing several podium finishes and winning the prestigious World Cup downhill title in 1984. His aggressive skiing style and pioneering techniques contributed to the evolution of the sport.
Continue ReadingSusan Strasberg
American actress and film star
Born
May 22nd, 1938 87 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1999 26 years ago — 60 years old
Acclaimed American actress, gained prominence in the late 1950s and 1960s. Rose to fame with the lead role in the film adaptation of 'The Diary of Anne Frank.' Also starred in other significant works including 'The Country Girl' and 'The Manchurian Candidate.' Contributed to the acting community as an instructor at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, bridging generational gaps in performance skills. Involved in various stage productions, including off-Broadway plays. Her career spanned several decades until her passing in 1999.
Continue ReadingJames Beard
American chef and author of cookbooks
Born
May 5th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in American cuisine, this chef significantly contributed to the culinary arts. He authored several cookbooks that became influential in shaping modern cooking practices. In addition to writing, he taught cooking classes that helped to elevate the profession of chefs. He founded the James Beard Foundation, which supports and promotes the culinary arts in the United States. His teachings and writings greatly influenced generations of chefs and home cooks. This chef's enthusiasm for food translated into a celebrated television career, appearing on various cooking shows that introduced American audiences to fine dining.
Continue ReadingJoseph Justus Scaliger
Historian and scholar of the Renaissance
Born
August 5th, 1540 485 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1609 416 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent historian and scholar during the Renaissance, focused on chronology and history. Contributed to the understanding of ancient texts and historical methods. Developed the concept of a universal chronological system, which laid the foundation for modern historical studies. His extensive work on the history of the Roman Empire and the chronology of ancient nations established him as a pivotal figure in the field. Wrote multiple influential texts that were central to the study of history and science, influencing subsequent historians and scholars.
Continue ReadingGeorges Méliès
French film director and illusionist
Born
December 8th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1938 87 years ago — 76 years old
A pioneering figure in filmmaking, primarily recognized for creating the first narrative films and introducing special effects. Established the use of multiple scenes in a single shot and storytelling in cinema. Directed and starred in over 500 films, with a significant impact on the art form during the early 20th century. The film 'A Trip to the Moon' (1902) showcased innovative techniques and visual storytelling that influenced future filmmakers. Founded the Star Film Company, which produced many of the earliest fantasy films, helping to define the genre and artistic possibilities of cinema.
Continue ReadingEddie Graham
Professional wrestler and promoter
Born
January 15th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1985 40 years ago — 55 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, contributed significantly to the wrestling industry during the 1970s and 1980s. Founded and promoted several wrestling territories, most notably in Florida. Served as a key figure in the National Wrestling Alliance. Developed numerous wrestling talents who later achieved prominence in the industry.
Continue Reading