Johan Cruyff
Footballer and coach, three-time Ballon d'Or winner
A prominent figure in football, gained recognition as a forward known for exceptional skill and intelligence on the pitch. Played for Ajax and FC Barcelona. Contributed significantly to Ajax's dominance in the 1970s, leading the team to three consecutive European Cups from 1971 to 1973. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, achieving notable success with Barcelona, including the club's first European Cup victory in 1992. Advocated for a style of play that emphasized possession and creativity, influencing future generations of footballers and coaches.
Won three Ballon d'Or awards (1971, 1973, 1974)
Led Ajax to three consecutive European Cups
Coached FC Barcelona to the 1992 European Cup
Other People Born on April 25th
Claudia Rath
German heptathlete and Olympian
Born
April 25th, 1986 39 years ago
Competed in the heptathlon, representing Germany in multiple international competitions. Participated in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, achieving a personal best performance. Competed in the European Athletics Championships with notable results, establishing a reputation in the realm of athletics.
Continue ReadingC. B. Fry
English cricketer and footballer
Born
April 25th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1956 69 years ago — 84 years old
An accomplished cricketer and footballer, played for Sussex in cricket and represented England in international matches. Also played as a forward for Southampton in football. Entered politics and served as a Liberal member of Parliament. Worked as an educator, lecturing on subjects such as history and literature. His athletic versatility earned recognition in both cricket and football, along with a brief period of play for the England national cricket team.
Continue ReadingFelipe Massa
Formula 1 racing driver, 2008 championship runner-up
Born
April 25th, 1981 44 years ago
Born in Brazil, engaged in motorsport from a young age, focusing on karting before moving up to car racing categories. Competed in Formula 1 from 2002 to 2017, securing a position in notable teams including Ferrari and Williams. Achieved significant success with Ferrari, culminating in a close fight for the championship in 2008, finishing as the runner-up. Accumulated multiple race wins throughout career, showcasing consistent performance across various circuits worldwide. Retired from Formula 1 but continued to participate in other racing formats.
Continue ReadingDinesh D'Souza
Journalist and author of political works
Born
April 25th, 1961 64 years ago
An Indian-American journalist and author, this individual gained prominence through political commentary and writing. Contributions include books that examine American politics and culture. Also directed documentaries that explore topics related to liberalism and conservatism. Varied work includes documentaries and motivational speaking engagements, addressing topics of national identity and social values.
Continue ReadingSara Baras
Spanish flamenco dancer and choreographer
Born
April 25th, 1971 54 years ago
A celebrated flamenco dancer and choreographer, gained recognition in the world of dance for her artistic style and innovative performances. Established a prominent career in Spain and internationally, characterized by a blend of traditional flamenco with contemporary elements. Founded her own dance company, which has toured extensively, delivering performances that showcase the richness of flamenco artistry. Created numerous productions that received critical acclaim and awards.
Continue ReadingMonty Panesar
Cricketer and England Test player
Born
April 25th, 1982 43 years ago
A left-arm spinner, made significant contributions to the England cricket team, particularly in the Test format. Gained recognition for exceptional spin bowling skills and played a key role during the famous 2005 Ashes series. Dominated opposing batsmen with his unique bowling style and ability to turn the ball sharply. Celebrated for multiple wicket-taking performances, which helped secure victories for the national team. Transitioned through various teams in domestic cricket and contributed to the growth of the sport in England.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 24th
Mary of Teck
Queen consort of the United Kingdom
Born
May 26th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1953 72 years ago — 85 years old
Born in England, served as queen consort from 1910 to 1936. Married George V, providing support during World War I and the abdication crisis of 1936. Took a keen interest in royal duties and was involved in numerous charitable endeavors. Contributed to royal family stability during significant national changes.
Continue ReadingJim Marshall
American rock photographer and author
Born
December 30th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2010 15 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent photographer, captured iconic images of rock music legends during the 1960s and 1970s. Documented pivotal moments in music history, including the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Published several books showcasing various aspects of rock culture, influencing how music photography is perceived. Worked closely with artists like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and The Beatles, producing images that have become emblematic of the era.
Continue ReadingMargaret Lindsay Huggins
Anglo-Irish astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
August 14th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1915 110 years ago — 66 years old
Pioneered advancements in astrophotography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Collaborated with her husband, pioneering astronomy and significantly contributing to the study of stellar spectroscopy. Credited with the discovery of several nebulae and other celestial phenomena using innovative methods of imaging. Participated actively in the scientific community and contributed numerous papers to astronomical journals, enhancing understanding of celestial bodies.
Continue ReadingInge Lønning
Norwegian theologian and politician
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2013 12 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in Norwegian academia, played significant roles in theological education and political discourse. Served as a professor of theology at the University of Oslo, contributing to the field through numerous publications and lectures. Engaged in politics as a member of the Conservative Party, holding various positions, including serving in the Norwegian Parliament from 1981 to 1985. Advocated for the integration of religious perspectives in public life and was influential in discussions surrounding secularism and its implications in Nordic society.
Continue ReadingMaria Amalia of Naples and Sicily
Queen of France
Born
April 26th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1866 159 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1782, the individual served as Queen consort of France through marriage to King Louis-Philippe I. The reign lasted from 1830 to 1848 amid significant political changes in France. The queen upheld the arts and participated in various charitable initiatives. After the abdication of her husband, she lived in exile, returning to France on occasion before her death in 1866.
Continue ReadingHans Hermann Groër
Austrian cardinal and church leader
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2003 22 years ago — 84 years old
Served as a prominent leader within the Roman Catholic Church in Austria, providing guidance and oversight to its activities. Ordained as a priest in 1951, took on various roles within the church hierarchy. Appointed as the Archbishop of Vienna in 1986, held this position until 1995. Advocated for religious education and church outreach, contributing to discussions on faith and social issues. Participated in numerous ecclesiastical conferences, representing the Vatican's interests domestically and internationally. Resigned amidst controversy and criticism over his handling of church matters.
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