Henry Draper
Astronomer and physician, stellar spectrography
Contributions to astronomy included pioneering work in stellar spectrography and the first photographs of celestial bodies. Developed techniques for analyzing the light from stars, which led to advancements in understanding stellar compositions. Published significant findings in various astronomical journals. Served as a prominent member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and contributed to the establishment of the American Astronomical Society.
Pioneered stellar spectrography
First photographs of celestial bodies
Other People Born on March 7th
Clement XIII
Pope overseeing Church during 18th century
Born
March 7th, 1693 333 years ago
Died
1769 257 years ago — 76 years old
Served as pope from 1758 to 1769. Focused on promoting the Catholic faith during a time of significant political and cultural change in Europe. Advocated for the Jesuit order, supporting its educational missions and international missions. Confronted challenges from Enlightenment thinkers and various governments opposing papal authority. His papacy is noted for the confirmation of the canonization of several saints and the issuance of important papal bulls.
Continue ReadingTammy Faye Messner
Television personality and evangelist
Born
March 7th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2007 18 years ago — 65 years old
An evangelist and television personality, she co-hosted the popular PTL Club alongside her husband, Jim Bakker, during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for her unique personality and emotional appeal, she became a significant figure in the realm of televangelism. After marital difficulties and financial scandals, her public life took new directions, including a successful solo career. She appeared on various talk shows and later became the focus of a biopic that highlighted her life and struggles with public perception and health.
Continue ReadingWilliam Rockhill Nelson
American businessman and publisher
Born
March 7th, 1841 185 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 74 years old
A businessman and publisher established The Kansas City Star, a prominent daily newspaper in Kansas City, Missouri. The publication began in 1880 and provided comprehensive coverage of local and national events. Nelson contributed to the growth of the newspaper industry in the region and played a significant role in the cultural and civic development of Kansas City. He also engaged in various philanthropic endeavors, supporting the establishment of institutions and public projects that benefited the community.
Continue ReadingIvar Ballangrud
Norwegian speed skater and Olympic champion
Born
March 7th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1969 57 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1904, a notable speed skater represented Norway in international competitions. Achieved significant success in the 1930s, particularly in the Winter Olympic Games. Excelled in long-distance events. Set multiple world records during his career and became one of the leading figures in the sport. His victories contributed to Norway's legacy in winter sports.
Continue ReadingNicéphore Niépce
French inventor of the photograph
Born
March 7th, 1765 261 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1833 192 years ago — 68 years old
An inventor from France pioneered the earliest form of photography. In 1826, created the first successful permanent photograph known as 'View from the Window at Le Gras.' Developed a process called 'heliography,' enabling the capturing of images through sunlight exposure on a thin layer of bitumen of Judea.
Continue ReadingTomáš Garrigue Masaryk
Austrian-Czech sociologist and politician
Born
March 7th, 1850 176 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1937 88 years ago — 87 years old
Austrian-Czech sociologist and politician served as the first President of Czechoslovakia from 1918 to 1935. Masaryk played a significant role in the establishment of the Czechoslovak state after World War I, advocating for democracy and nationalism. His work in sociology and philosophy influenced his political career, emphasizing ethics and social justice. He contributed to the founding of Czechoslovakia by uniting various nationalist movements and negotiating with world leaders. His presidency focused on nation-building and fostering a democratic society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 20th
Albert Newsam
American painter and illustrator
Born
1809 217 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1864 161 years ago — 55 years old
An American painter and illustrator, contributed significantly to the art of lithography in the 19th century. Worked on a variety of landscapes and historical scenes, showcasing the culture and scenery of early America. Created numerous illustrations for books, magazines, and other publications, influencing subsequent generations of artists. Established a reputation for accuracy and detail in representations of American landscapes.
Continue ReadingI Gusti Ngurah Rai
Indonesian military officer and leader
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1946 79 years ago — 29 years old
An Indonesian military officer and national hero, led forces against Dutch colonial rule during the Indonesian National Revolution. Played a significant role in the struggle for Indonesian independence. Commanded a defense against Dutch troops in the Bali region, organizing guerrilla warfare tactics. Guided troops during several key battles which contributed to the independence movement.
Continue ReadingEbenezer Cobb Morley
Sportsman and founder of the FA
Born
1831 195 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1924 101 years ago — 93 years old
A sportsman played a pivotal role in the development of modern football, establishing the Football Association in 1863 to create standardized rules for the game. In addition to founding the FA, organized various matches and promoted the sport throughout England. His efforts contributed significantly to the structure and governance of football, allowing for the sport's growth and popularization across the country.
Continue ReadingAmintore Fanfani
Italian politician and Prime Minister
Born
February 6th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 32nd Prime Minister of Italy during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a significant role in the Italian political landscape, leading the Christian Democracy party. Held key governmental positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Instrumental in shaping post-war Italian policies and economic recovery, advocating for social welfare programs and economic reforms. Contributed to the establishment of Italy as a key player in European politics and integration.
Continue ReadingKarel Dujardin
Dutch Golden Age painter, 'The Menagerie'
Born
1622 404 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1678 347 years ago — 56 years old
A Dutch painter specialized in genre scenes and landscapes during the Golden Age. Contributions included numerous works that featured animals and pastoral landscapes. Created significant paintings, especially noted for the depiction of exotic animals and their environments, representing the fascination of the time with nature and the exotic. Dujardin was part of the artistic community in Amsterdam, which flourished in the 17th century, showcasing talent in capturing light and atmosphere.
Continue ReadingClyde Vernon Cessna
Aircraft manufacturer and businessman
Born
December 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1954 71 years ago — 74 years old
Established the Cessna Aircraft Corporation in 1927, significantly contributing to the advancement of general aviation. Cessna designed and built the first Cessna aircraft, the Cessna Model A, and later produced iconic aircraft models like the Cessna 172, widely regarded for its reliability and performance. Played a key role in promoting private flying and was instrumental in popularizing light aircraft in the United States.
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