James B. Edwards
American Politician & 3rd Secretary of Energy
Born in 1927, a career spanned dentistry, military service, and politics. Served as the 3rd United States Secretary of Energy from 1981 to 1982 under President Ronald Reagan. Edwards was the Governor of South Carolina from 1975 to 1979, overseeing state initiatives and healthcare reforms. Also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, served in the Korean War.
Served as 3rd United States Secretary of Energy
Governed South Carolina from 1975 to 1979
Other People Born on June 24th
Herbert Kitchener
Field Marshal and Governor-General
Born
June 24th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1916 109 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Ireland, served as a British field marshal and politician. Played a significant role in the Second Anglo-Boer War as a commander. Appointed Governor-General of Sudan and implemented strategic military reforms. Served as Secretary of State for War during World War I, overseeing the British military efforts.
Continue ReadingPrince George of Greece and Denmark
Royalty and military officer in Greece
Born
June 24th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1957 68 years ago — 88 years old
A member of the Greek royal family, served as a military officer. Held the title of Prince and participated in the Balkan Wars. Served in various military capacities during World War I. Involved in the political affairs of Greece during a tumultuous period of its history, particularly in relation to the monarchy and republican movements.
Continue ReadingRuth Randall Edström
American educator and activist
Born
June 24th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 77 years old
An educator and activist focused on women's rights and educational reform. Founded and organized institutions dedicated to the advancement of women and children. Engaged in various efforts to improve public education systems, advocating for equity in education and better resources for schools. Contributed to important educational publications that shaped policies and practices in teaching and administration.
Continue ReadingJuan Manuel Fangio
Race car driver, five-time champion
Born
June 24th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1995 30 years ago — 84 years old
A race car driver achieved prominence in the 1950s, competing primarily in Formula One. Fangio secured five World Championships, a record that stood for 46 years. His racing career spanned from 1938 to 1958, where he drove for teams such as Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, and Ferrari. Known for exceptional skill and control in high-speed racing, Fangio's legacy rests on his remarkable ability to navigate various circuits and conditions.
Continue ReadingPierre Fournier
Cellist and educator, classical music
Born
June 24th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1986 39 years ago — 79 years old
An accomplished cellist and educator, contributed significantly to classical music. Studied at the Paris Conservatory and gained recognition for both solo performances and collaborations with various orchestras. Served as a professor at prestigious music institutions, imparting knowledge to future generations of musicians. Recorded numerous albums, showcasing a wide repertoire that included works by Bach, Beethoven, and Dvorak. Associated with leading orchestras in Europe and the United States, highlighted performances at international festivals.
Continue ReadingNuno Álvares Pereira
Portuguese general and military leader
Born
June 24th, 1360 665 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1431 594 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent general during the Portuguese crisis of 1383-1385, leading forces to victory against Castilian forces at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. Played a crucial role in establishing Portuguese independence. His military strategies and leadership contributed to the consolidation of the kingdom during a turbulent period. He also became a revered figure in Portuguese history, remembered for skillful tactics and dedication to the crown.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 26th
Desmond Tutu
South African Archbishop, Nobel laureate
Born
October 7th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2021 3 years ago — 90 years old
An archbishop and anti-apartheid activist played a significant role in advocating for human rights and justice in South Africa. As the first black Archbishop of Cape Town, contributed to the establishment of a multiracial democracy in the country. In 1984, received the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in peacefully opposing the apartheid regime. Dedicated work included chairing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aimed to address the atrocities committed during apartheid and promote healing in the nation.
Continue ReadingNiccolò III d'Este
Marquis of Ferrara and Este family leader
Born
November 9th, 1383 642 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1441 583 years ago — 58 years old
Served as the Marquis of Ferrara from 1393 until 1441. Played a significant role in the politics of Renaissance Italy. Oversaw developments in culture and architecture in Ferrara. Led military campaigns to defend territory against various threats. Strengthened the Este family's influence in the region through strategic alliances and patronage of the arts.
Continue ReadingMary Hartwell Catherwood
American author and poet, wrote Indian novels
Born
December 16th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1902 122 years ago — 53 years old
An American author and poet, produced numerous works during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Focused primarily on themes related to Native American life and experiences. Gained recognition for a series of novels set in the American West, which depicted the interactions between settlers and Indigenous peoples. Contributed articles and poetry to various magazines, enhancing the literary landscape of the time. Her writing is characterized by rich descriptions and explorations of cultural conflict.
Continue ReadingFarid al-Atrash
Syrian actor and singer with great influence
Born
October 19th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1974 50 years ago — 64 years old
Born in Syria in 1910, al-Atrash gained prominence as both an actor and singer, becoming a key figure in Arabic music and cinema. He starred in numerous films during the golden age of Egyptian cinema, including 'The Nightingale' and 'The Lover's Night'. Al-Atrash was instrumental in blending traditional Arabic music with modern styles, which expanded the reach and appeal of these art forms. His hit songs and performances continue to resonate with audiences. He also composed many musical pieces that remain popular today.
Continue ReadingJason Robards
Acclaimed American actor in theater and film
Born
July 26th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2000 24 years ago — 78 years old
An American actor active from the 1940s to the early 2000s, recognized for work in both film and theater. Roles included performances in movies such as 'All the President's Men' and 'Once Upon a Time in the West'. Achieved significant acclaim on stage as well, receiving Tony Awards for performances in 'The Iceman Cometh' and 'Long Day's Journey into Night'. Also earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'All the President's Men'.
Continue ReadingGlenn McCarthy
Businessman and Shamrock Hotel founder
Born
December 25th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1988 36 years ago — 81 years old
Founded the Shamrock Hotel in Houston, which became a landmark in the city. Played a significant role in the development of Houston’s hospitality industry during the mid-20th century. The hotel opened in 1949 and was one of the first luxury hotels in the area, attracting many prominent guests. In addition to hospitality, involved in real estate and other business ventures throughout Texas.
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