Hermann de Pourtalès

Swiss sailor and Olympic champion

Hermann de Pourtalès - Athletes & Sports Figures born March 31st, 1847
Born
Died
Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Switzerland

Links & References

Born in Switzerland, participated in sailing events during his athletic career. Competed in the 1900 Paris Olympics, where sailing was included for the first time. Achieved significant success, winning a gold medal in the 1 to 2 ton sailing class. Dedicated to the sport, contributed to the growth of competitive sailing in Switzerland, particularly in yacht racing.

Won gold medal at the 1900 Paris Olympics

Competed in the 1 to 2 ton sailing class

Other People Born on March 31st

Mariana Victoria of Spain

Spanish Infanta and Queen consort
Born
March 31st, 1718 307 years ago
Died
1781 245 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1718, Mariana Victoria of Spain was an Infanta of Spain and later became the Queen consort of Portugal through marriage. She was a daughter of King Philip V of Spain and Queen consort Maria Luis of Savoy. In 1729, she married King Joseph I of Portugal, thus solidifying an important political alliance between Spain and Portugal. During her time as queen consort, she contributed to the Portuguese court's cultural life and had a significant role in the upbringing of the royal children. Her marriage marked a period of relative peace between the two kingdoms, and she navigated the complex political landscape of the Iberian Peninsula.

Continue Reading

George Treweek

Australian rugby league player
Born
March 31st, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1991 35 years ago — 86 years old

Played professional rugby league in Australia, primarily for the Newtown Jets. Contributed to the team's achievements during the 1920s and 1930s. Participated in several key matches, showcasing skills in both defensive and offensive strategies. Also represented New South Wales at the state level, earning recognition for performance in interstate matches.

Continue Reading

Kristian Blak

Pianist and composer from Faroe Islands
Born
March 31st, 1947 78 years ago

A Danish-Faroese pianist, composer, and producer. Active in the fields of classical and contemporary music, created numerous works that blend traditional Faroese music with modern influences. Developed a distinctive style that incorporates elements from various genres, drawing from the rich cultural heritage of the Faroe Islands. Founded the music label Tutl, aiming to promote Faroese music. Additionally, has contributed to the jazz scene and collaborated with various international musicians.

Continue Reading

Frederick V of Denmark

Danish monarch and brother of Frederick VI
Born
March 31st, 1723 302 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1766 260 years ago — 42 years old

Ruled as King of Denmark and Norway from 1746 until 1766. During the reign, emphasized cultural development and established a framework for the arts in the realm. Oversaw the construction of several significant structures in Copenhagen, promoting architectural expansion. Maintained the Danish-Norwegian monarchy during a period of relative peace and stability, balancing the interests of both regions.

Continue Reading

Richard Chamberlain

American actor in 'Dr. Kildare'
Born
March 31st, 1934 91 years ago

A distinguished American actor, recognized for significant roles in both television and film. Gained prominence through the title role in the television series 'Dr. Kildare' during the 1960s. Achieved further acclaim for the miniseries 'The Thorn Birds', portraying the character Father Ralph de Bricassart. Chamberlain's career spans several decades, showcasing a versatile acting range in various genres.

Continue Reading

Jean Coutu

Actor and director of 'La vie est belle'
Born
March 31st, 1925 100 years ago
Died
1999 27 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1925, a Canadian actor and director predominantly worked in films and television. Became widely recognized for directing the acclaimed film 'La vie est belle'. The career spanned several decades, earning a reputation for engaging storytelling and skilled performances. Contributed significantly to the Canadian cinema landscape with various projects throughout the years.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 28th

Kerry Wendell Thornley

American author and theorist
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 60 years old

An American author and theorist, contributed to various writings on conspiracy theories and the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Authored the book 'The Prankster and the Sphinx', which explored topics related to the counterculture and alternative thought. Engaged in the creation of fictional narratives closely tied to significant cultural movements. His work often combined elements of satire and philosophy.

Continue Reading

Ludger Duvernay

Canadian journalist and politician
Born
January 22nd, 1799 227 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1852 173 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent Canadian journalist and publisher, played a key role in promoting political ideas and cultural identity in Quebec during the 19th century. Founded the newspaper 'La Minerve' in 1826, which became influential in shaping public opinion. Engaged in public affairs as a politician, advocating for the rights of French Canadians. Contributed to the establishment of the Parti canadien, which aimed to represent the interests of French-speaking Canadians in the legislative assembly.

Continue Reading

Leslie Nielsen

Actor in comedy films and series
Born
February 11th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2010 15 years ago — 84 years old

A Canadian-American actor and producer achieved recognition for performances in the genre of comedy. Significant roles included appearances in the 'Airplane!' film series and the television series 'Police Squad!' which parodied police dramas. Transitioning from drama to comedy, delivered memorable performances characterized by deadpan humor. Enjoyed a lengthy career spanning several decades, making a mark in both film and television.

Continue Reading

Washington Irving

American short story writer and historian
Born
April 3rd, 1783 242 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1859 166 years ago — 76 years old

An influential American writer, active in the early 19th century, contributed significantly to American literature. Wrote the short stories "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle," which remain staples of American folklore. Also authored several biographies and essays, showcasing a blend of history and fiction. Engaged in travel writing, reflecting personal experiences and observations in Europe and the United States.

Continue Reading

Dwight F. Davis

Tennis player and U.S. Secretary of War
Born
July 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1945 80 years ago — 66 years old

Competed in tennis during the early 20th century and won the first Davis Cup in 1900. Served as the 49th U.S. Secretary of War from 1925 to 1929 under President Calvin Coolidge. In addition to contributions in sports, played a significant role in military leadership and policy during his tenure. After leaving public office, continued involvement in tennis and promoting the sport internationally.

Continue Reading

Athanasius Kircher

German priest and scholar, antiquarian
Born
May 2nd, 1601 424 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1680 345 years ago — 79 years old

A 17th-century German priest and scholar contributed significantly to various fields of knowledge, including physics, medicine, and linguistics. Kircher studied at the University of Würzburg and became a member of the Society of Jesus. He published numerous works throughout his lifetime, including 'Mundus Subterraneus', which detailed his theories on geology and volcanology. He also authored 'Arca Noe', tackling the biblical story of Noah's Ark while providing insights into natural history. Kircher established a museum in Rome that showcased many of his collections in archaeology and natural sciences and created one of the first European maps that depicted China.

Continue Reading