Harry Payne Whitney
Businessman and lawyer; founder of Whitney Museum
A prominent American businessman and lawyer contributed significantly to various industries. Established Whitney & Company, which focused on financial services and investments. Engaged in philanthropy and played a vital role in the arts, including founding the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City, dedicated to 20th-century American art. Served as a director for several companies and participated actively in the family business.
Founded the Whitney Museum of American Art
Developed Whitney & Company
Other People Born on April 29th
Rob Atkinson
English footballer and defender
Born
April 29th, 1987 38 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a defender. Initiated a career at Oxford United, making significant contributions in various matches. Later transferred to several clubs, including a notable stint at the club during a competitive league. Additionally, participated in key tournaments, showcasing skill and versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingMisaki Doi
Japanese tennis player and competitor
Born
April 29th, 1991 34 years ago
A professional tennis player from Japan, had a successful career primarily on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour. Achieved highest singles ranking of No. 30 in February 2016. Competed in multiple Grand Slam tournaments, including the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Part of the Japanese national team and participated in the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingDavid Cox
Landscape painter and watercolourist
Born
April 29th, 1783 242 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1859 166 years ago — 76 years old
Active during the 19th century, a prominent English landscape painter specialized in watercolours. Developed a unique style that emphasized the treatment of light and atmosphere in natural scenes. Participated in the Royal Academy exhibitions, showcasing works that gained visibility among both critics and the public. Engaged in teaching, influencing a generation of artists through his lessons and writings on painting techniques. His commitment to landscape painting solidified a reputation within the art community in England.
Continue ReadingChris Johnson
Basketball player and All-Star athlete
Born
April 29th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional basketball player excelled in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Played for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Hornets and the Atlanta Hawks. Achieved recognition for outstanding performance in various seasons, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. His skills in scoring and defense earned a selection to the NBA All-Star team. Known for his speed and agility, he became a key player, demonstrating exceptional athleticism throughout his career.
Continue ReadingSinja Kraus
Austrian tennis player with notable performances
Born
April 29th, 2002 23 years ago
Born in Austria in 2002, a professional tennis player rose through the junior ranks and made significant strides in international competitions. Competed in the ITF circuit, acquiring valuable experience and refining skills. Achieved notable success in singles and doubles formats, representing Austria in multiple tournaments. Maintained a strong presence in the junior circuits, establishing a reputation as a promising athlete.
Continue ReadingJonathan Toews
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
April 29th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, this Canadian ice hockey player became a prominent center for the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League (NHL). After being selected third overall in the 2006 NHL Draft, contributions to the Blackhawks included leadership as team captain from 2008 to 2021. Achievements featured multiple playoff appearances, culminating in three Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013, and 2015. This player also represented Canada in international competition, winning gold medals at the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 26th
Robert Anderson
Union general during the Civil War
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1871 154 years ago — 66 years old
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War. Commanded Union forces at Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. His decision to surrender the fort triggered the conflict between the North and South. After the battle, served in various commands throughout the war and played a role in the defense of several key positions. After the Civil War, served in various military capacities until retirement.
Continue ReadingTroy Smith
Businessman, founder of Sonic Drive-In
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 87 years old
Founded Sonic Drive-In, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its drive-in service and varied menu options. Established the first location in 1953, which focused on providing a unique dining experience where customers could order from their cars. Expanded the chain significantly, leading to thousands of locations across the United States. The company became recognized for its distinctive use of carhops and drive-thru services, creating a popular dining trend. Continued to innovate within the fast-food industry until passing away in 2009.
Continue ReadingPaul Pelliot
Sinologist and Explorer, Silk Road Expeditions
Born
May 28th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 67 years old
A prominent sinologist and explorer, significant contributions include extensive research on the history and culture of China. Conducted major expeditions along the Silk Road, particularly in the early 20th century. Focused on the study of ancient texts and artifacts, many of which contributed to the understanding of Buddhism's development and diffusion in Asia. Worked with institutions to document and preserve historical findings.
Continue ReadingAleksey Krylov
Mathematician and engineer in Russia
Born
August 15th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 82 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of applied mathematics and mechanics. Developed theories related to the stability of floating bodies and maritime mechanics. Authored key works on hydrodynamics, especially in relation to ship design and stability. Served as a professor at several institutions, fostering the growth of mathematical studies in Russia.
Continue ReadingPark Chung Hee
South Korean general and politician
Born
November 14th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1979 46 years ago — 61 years old
A military general and politician who served as the third president of South Korea. Led the country from 1961 to 1979, implementing economic policies that spurred rapid industrialization and economic growth known as the Miracle on the Han River. Oversaw significant changes in South Korean society and government structure, including the establishment of the Yushin Constitution, which extended presidential powers. His regime faced criticism for human rights abuses and suppression of dissent.
Continue ReadingTony Hillerman
Author of Navajo Tribal Police mysteries
Born
May 27th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
A journalist and author focused on the American Southwest, wrote a series of mystery novels featuring Navajo Tribal Police officers. These works highlighted Native American culture and customs through engaging narratives. The series garnered a dedicated readership and received critical acclaim, solidifying a legacy in the mystery genre.
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