Janet Guthrie
Race car driver; first woman in Indy 500
An American race car driver made history as the first woman to compete in the Indianapolis 500 in 1977. Additionally, participated in the Daytona 500, becoming the first female driver to achieve this feat. Guthrie began her racing career in the early 1970s, transitioning from amateur racing to professional. In 1978, finished 11th in the Indianapolis 500, showcasing the capability of female drivers in a male-dominated sport. Earned numerous accolades and recognition for her contributions to motorsports, serving as a trailblazer for women in racing.
First woman to compete in the Indy 500
First female competitor in the Daytona 500
Other People Born on March 7th
Guillaume du Vair
French lawyer and legal author
Born
March 7th, 1556 469 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1621 404 years ago — 65 years old
Born in France in 1556, contributed significantly to legal literature and jurisprudence during the early modern period. Worked as a lawyer, emphasizing the importance of legal reasoning and humanism. Served in various judicial capacities, culminating in the role of procurator general in the Parliament of Paris. Authored several influential works discussing law and governance, integrating classical philosophy with legal concepts. Du Vair's writings were instrumental in shaping legal thought in France, bridging the gap between medieval concepts of law and the emerging modern legal frameworks.
Continue ReadingDorothy de Rothschild
Philanthropist and activist for Jewish causes
Born
March 7th, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1988 37 years ago — 93 years old
Born in England, she dedicated life to philanthropy, particularly focusing on Jewish causes and social welfare. A prominent figure in the Jewish community, she played a significant role in supporting various charitable organizations. Involved in the establishment of the Memorial to the Jewish Martyrs in London, she also contributed to the rebuilding of Jewish life post-World War II. Her efforts extended to the establishment of the Rothschild Foundation, which focused on various global social issues. Active in several organizations, she worked tirelessly for the welfare and education of Jewish communities and contributed to essential infrastructure funding following the Holocaust.
Continue ReadingIvar Ballangrud
Norwegian speed skater and Olympic champion
Born
March 7th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1969 56 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 ReadingBoris Kustodiev
Russian painter and stage designer
Born
March 7th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1927 98 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent Russian painter and stage designer, Kustodiev gained recognition for works that reflect Russian life, folklore, and culture. His artistic style combines realism with elements of Russian folk art, characterized by vibrant colors and rich textures. His major work, 'The Bolshevik', exemplifies this blend and captures the spirit of the early Soviet era. In addition to painting, he designed sets for various theatrical productions, significantly contributing to Russian theatre aesthetics during the early 20th century. Kustodiev faced health challenges throughout life, which influenced his perspective and subject matter in art.
Continue ReadingHelen Eadie
Scottish politician and Parliament member
Born
March 7th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
November 9th, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old
A Scottish politician served as a Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Dunfermline East constituency from 1999 to 2011. Eadie was involved in various legislative matters during tenure, particularly focusing on social justice and women's issues. Eadie held positions within the Scottish Parliament, including as a member of the Health and Community Care Committee. A member of the Scottish Labour Party, Eadie contributed to debates and policy formation, advocating for the interests of her constituents and promoting public health initiatives.
Continue ReadingNicéphore Niépce
French inventor of the photograph
Born
March 7th, 1765 260 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.
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