Jesse Owens
American sprinter and long jumper
Competed in track and field, specializing in sprinting and long jump. Gained global notoriety at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where four gold medals were won in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4x100 meter relay. Defended titles at the 1935 Big Ten Conference, setting multiple world records in a single day. His athletic achievements challenged the prevailing notions of racial superiority during that era.
Won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
Set multiple world records in 1935
Dominated sprinting events at the Big Ten Conference
Other People Born on September 12th
Elina Svitolina
Professional tennis player, Olympic medalist
Born
September 12th, 1994 31 years ago
A professional tennis player achieved significant success on the WTA tour. Secured 16 WTA singles titles and reached a career-high ranking of World No. 3 in 2017. Achieved notable success at the Grand Slam level, reaching the semifinals of the French Open and the US Open in 2019. Represented Ukraine in international competitions, winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Contributed to Ukraine's advancement in the Fed Cup, playing pivotal matches.
Continue ReadingSydney Sweeney
American actress in Euphoria and The White Lotus
Born
September 12th, 1997 28 years ago
An actress recognized for performances in television and film. Gained prominence with significant roles in the series 'Euphoria' as Cassie Howard and in 'The White Lotus' as Olivia. Appeared in other works including 'Sharp Objects' and 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.'
Continue ReadingAlexia Fast
Canadian actress in films and television
Born
September 12th, 1992 33 years ago
An actress recognized for roles in both films and television series. Started acting at a young age, gaining attention for performances in feature films. Gained significant recognition for a starring role in the film 'Flicka'. Featured in the television series 'The Secret Circle'. Her career showcases work in various genres, and she continues to participate in projects in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAntonio Cafiero
Argentine politician and Governor
Born
September 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old
An accountant who entered politics, held the role of Governor of Buenos Aires Province from 1987 to 1991. Played a significant role in the Justicialist Party and participated in the economic and political restructuring of Argentina during the 1980s and 1990s. Advocated for several social and economic reforms during tenure as governor, focusing on infrastructure and public services improvements.
Continue ReadingAlfie Allen
English actor in Game of Thrones
Born
September 12th, 1986 39 years ago
Appeared in various television series and films, gaining prominence with a key role in the successful HBO series Game of Thrones, portraying Theon Greyjoy. The role showcased depth and complexity, contributing to the show's critical acclaim and popularity. Involved in several other projects, including films such as John Wick and Netflix's Filling the Void.
Continue ReadingAndrew Luck
American football quarterback
Born
September 12th, 1989 36 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Indianapolis Colts. Entered the NFL after being selected first overall in the 2012 NFL Draft. Achieved multiple Pro Bowl selections and won the NFL Passing touchdowns leader title in 2014. Retired from professional football in 2019, citing health concerns.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 31st
Hans Fischer
German chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 27th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1945 81 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent chemist contributed significantly to the understanding of heme and porphyrins. Developed methods for spectroscopic analysis and synthesis of these compounds. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1930 for work related to the structure and properties of hemoglobin and chlorophyll. Served as a professor at various universities, impacting the field of organic chemistry through teaching and research.
Continue ReadingAnne Hyde
Queen of England, consort of James II
Born
March 12th, 1637 389 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1671 355 years ago — 34 years old
Born in 1637, the spouse of James II, consort served in the position from 1685 until death in 1671. Anne was the daughter of Edward Hyde, who served as the first Earl of Clarendon. Her marriage to James II was initially clandestine, occurring in 1660, before his ascension to the throne. Anne gave birth to several children, including two daughters who later became queens. Throughout her life, she maintained a significant role in court politics and affairs of state.
Continue ReadingOlaudah Equiano
Nigerian author and abolitionist
Born
1745 281 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1797 229 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent figure in the abolitionist movement, provided first-hand accounts of the transatlantic slave trade. Authored 'The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano', which detailed experiences as a slave and advocate for abolition. Played a significant role in gaining support for the movement against slavery in Britain during the 18th century.
Continue ReadingJeffrey Lee Pierce
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 27th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1996 30 years ago — 37 years old
Played guitar and sang for the band The Gun Club, which blended punk rock and blues. Released several albums, including 'Fire of Love' and 'Miami', contributing to the alternative music scene in the 1980s. Collaborated with artists like Kid Congo Powers and wrote songs that reflected on themes of love, loss, and rebellion. His musical style influenced various genres and contributed to the development of punk blues.
Continue ReadingPatrick Demarchelier
Fashion photographer, worked with Vogue
Born
August 21st, 1943 82 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2022 4 years ago — 78 years old
French fashion photographer gained prominence in the fashion industry, capturing iconic images for magazines. Received acclaim for a distinctive style that blended fine art and commercial photography. Collaborated with numerous celebrities and brands, creating memorable campaigns that influenced fashion trends. Photographed notable fashion editorials and campaigns for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and other prestigious publications, establishing a significant presence in the world of fashion photography.
Continue ReadingKang Youwei
Chinese scholar and political reformer
Born
March 19th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1927 99 years ago — 69 years old
A key figure in late Qing Dynasty reform efforts, he advocated for educational and political reforms within China. He was a proponent of constitutional monarchy and sought to modernize Chinese society. His book, 'Datong Shu' (The Book of Great Unity), outlined his vision for a reformed China. In 1898, he played a central role in the Hundred Days' Reform, which aimed to implement significant changes in governance and society. After the reform movement was suppressed, he went into exile and continued to promote reform ideas through writings and lectures.
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