Jim Naismith
Basketball inventor and coach
Born
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An important figure in the development of basketball, introduced the game in 1891 at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts. Created the original 13 rules of the game that governed its play. Served as the first head coach of the men's basketball team at the University of Kansas, building a strong program and contributing significantly to college basketball. Naismith also had a role in the development of physical education and sport.
Invented the game of basketball
Authored the original 13 rules of basketball
First head coach at the University of Kansas
Other People Born on July 26th
Bernice Rubens
Welsh author and Booker Prize winner
Born
July 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1923 in Cardiff, this author gained prominence in the literary world with a distinctive narrative style. The first woman to win the Booker Prize, the work garnered critical acclaim and elevated the author's status in modern literature. A notable theme in the works involved the exploration of human relationships, often highlighting the complexities of life and the darker aspects of society. Contributions to literature thrived throughout several decades, with multiple novels published, showcasing a keen ability to weave intricate plots and profound observations.
Continue ReadingAna María Matute
Spanish author; acclaimed for 'Los delitos'
Born
July 26th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
An influential Spanish author and academic focused on the themes of childhood, war, and identity in her works. Wrote various novels, short stories, and essays throughout a literary career that spanned several decades. Matute's writing often reflected the social and political realities of post-Civil War Spain. Some of her noteworthy works include 'Los hijos de los días,' 'La isla de las tinieblas,' and 'Olvidado rey Gudú.' Received several prestigious awards, including the Premio Nacional de Narrativa and the Miguel de Cervantes Prize, acknowledging her contributions to literature and her distinct narrative style.
Continue ReadingSilas Soule
American soldier, Sand Creek Massacre whistleblower
Born
July 26th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 27 years old
Served as a Union soldier during the Civil War. Witnessed the Sand Creek Massacre in 1864 and became a vocal critic of the actions taken by the Colorado militia. Reported the events to higher authorities, emphasizing the brutal treatment of Native Americans. His testimony played a significant role in the investigation of the massacre. Later, Soule's stance against such atrocities led to conflicts within military hierarchies and shaped perceptions of the treatment of Indigenous people in the United States. Soule's actions demonstrated a commitment to truth and accountability amidst widespread violence.
Continue ReadingGeorge Grosz
German painter and illustrator of satire
Born
July 26th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1959 66 years ago — 65 years old
A painter and illustrator, major work included satirical depictions of German society during the Weimar Republic. Richly detailed, the art often critiqued the political landscape and social issues of the time. Grosz's experiences in World War I influenced his perspectives, leading to a deep engagement with themes of disillusionment and moral decay. His work reflected the tumultuous atmosphere of 1920s Germany, marked by hyperinflation and political unrest. Grosz emigrated to the United States in 1933, where he continued to create art until his return to Germany after World War II. The combination of sharp critique and expressive style made his pieces notable in the history of modern art.
Continue ReadingHoyt Wilhelm
Baseball player and coach, Hall of Famer
Born
July 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2002 23 years ago — 79 years old
Professional baseball career spanned from 1944 to 1972. Played as a pitcher for multiple Major League Baseball teams, with notable tenures at the New York Giants and the Chicago White Sox. Became the first relief pitcher to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Contributed to the game as a coach after retirement, mentoring players and sharing knowledge of pitching techniques.
Continue ReadingMarika Koroibete
Rugby player, Rugby World Cup participant
Born
July 26th, 1992 33 years ago
Born in Fiji, a professional rugby player has excelled in the sport, primarily playing as a winger. Career began in Fiji before moving to Australia, where participation in Super Rugby included stints with the Melbourne Rebels. Represented Australia in international competitions, contributing to the national team's performances in the Rugby Championship and the Rugby World Cup. Known for speed and agility on the field, earned a reputation as a formidable player.
Continue Reading