Jan Smeekens
Speed skater with Olympic achievements
This athlete specialized in speed skating and competed prominently in various international competitions. Achieved success at the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Sochi, where finished in the top ten. Also competed at the World Championships and European Championships, securing medals across different events. Demonstrated consistent performance throughout his career, representing the Netherlands in multiple tournaments.
Competed in the 2014 Winter Olympics
Medaled at World Championships
Medaled at European Championships
Other People Born on February 11th
Helene Kröller-Müller
Art collector and museum founder
Born
February 11th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1939 87 years ago — 70 years old
An art collector and philanthropist, played a crucial role in the establishment of the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands, which houses a significant collection of modern art. Actively collected artworks, including numerous pieces by Vincent van Gogh, contributing to the preservation and appreciation of art in the early 20th century. Dedicated significant resources to creating an institutional framework for art, ensuring accessibility and education for the public.
Continue ReadingMelville Fuller
U.S. Chief Justice and legal scholar
Born
February 11th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1910 115 years ago — 77 years old
Served as the 8th Chief Justice of the United States from 1888 to 1910. Oversaw significant Supreme Court cases including Lochner v. New York and Plessy v. Ferguson. Contributed to the development of American law through influential decisions and opinions. Held various roles in legal associations and advocated for important legal reforms during tenure as Chief Justice.
Continue ReadingGerry Goffin
American songwriter of pop classics
Born
February 11th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in American music, contributed extensively as a songwriter during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated with Carole King, creating numerous hit songs. The partnership yielded a string of chart-topping records that became standards in pop music. Many songs received critical acclaim and gained recognition for their lyrical depth and melodic structure. Their work remains influential, impacting generations of artists across various genres.
Continue ReadingNassir Little
American basketball player for the Trail Blazers
Born
February 11th, 2000 25 years ago
A professional basketball player, primarily played for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. Attended the University of North Carolina, where he contributed to the team during the 2018-2019 season before declaring for the NBA draft. Selected in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft by the Trail Blazers, showcasing skills as a forward. Known for defensive plays and athleticism on the court.
Continue ReadingHonoré d'Urfé
French author of pastoral romance
Born
February 11th, 1568 457 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1625 400 years ago — 57 years old
An author and playwright, this individual was a leading figure in the development of French literature during the early 17th century. The most notable work, 'L'Astrée,' was published in several volumes from 1607 to 1627. This pastoral novel significantly influenced the genre and inspired numerous later writers. The story is centered around the love tale of Astrée and Celadon, set against the backdrop of the Auvergne region and featuring idealized characters and themes of love and pastoral life.
Continue ReadingPhilip Dunne
American screenwriter of impactful films
Born
February 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent screenwriter in American cinema during the mid-20th century, this individual crafted screenplays that showcased strong narratives and complex characters. Significant works include 'The Grapes of Wrath', a film adaptation of John Steinbeck's novel, and 'How Green Was My Valley', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Contributions to the film industry extended beyond screenwriting, as involvement in various projects spanned across decades, influencing the craft of storytelling in films.
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