John Alexander Douglas McCurdy

Canadian pilot and Lieutenant Governor

John Alexander Douglas McCurdy - Canadian pilot and Lieutenant Governor
Born

August 2nd, 1886
138 years ago

Died

1961
64 years ago — 75 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Canada

Links & References

An early aviation pioneer, played a significant role in the development of aviation in Canada. Achieved fame as the first person to fly a heavier-than-air aircraft in the British Empire in 1909. Later served as the 20th Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia from 1947 to 1952, contributing to the political landscape of the province. In addition to aviation and politics, engaged in various community and educational initiatives.

First to fly a heavier-than-air aircraft in the British Empire

Served as Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia

Other People Born on August 2nd

Fernando Couto

Portuguese footballer and manager
Born
August 2nd, 1969 55 years ago

Played as a central defender for multiple clubs including FC Porto, Deportivo La Coruña, and Valencia. Represented Portugal in international tournaments, contributing to the national team's participation in the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup. Transitioned into management after retiring from professional play, taking on roles at various clubs.

Continue Reading

Irving Babbitt

American academic and literary critic
Born
August 2nd, 1865 159 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1933 91 years ago — 67 years old

An influential academic specializing in literary criticism, significant contributions included the establishment of the New Humanism movement, emphasizing a moral framework in literature and education. Authored several notable works, including "The New Humanism" and "Democracy and Leadership," which explored the relationship between literature, culture, and ethics. Served as a professor at Harvard University and was involved in the American Academy of Arts and Letters, promoting the humanities in education. Babbitt's thoughts shaped educational reforms and literary criticism in the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

K. Arulanandan

Ceylon-American engineer and academic
Born
August 2nd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2004 21 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Ceylon, an influential engineer and academic made significant contributions in the field of engineering education. Served as a professor and held leadership roles at various educational institutions, fostering growth in engineering curricula. Played a key role in developing educational programs that integrated practical experience with theoretical knowledge, enhancing the quality of engineering training. Migrated to the United States and continued to impact the academic landscape through innovative teaching methods and research initiatives in engineering disciplines.

Continue Reading

Andy Fairweather Low

Wales Singer-songwriter & guitarist
Born
August 2nd, 1948 76 years ago

A Welsh singer-songwriter and guitarist, started career as lead vocalist for the band Amen Corner, achieving major success with the hit single "(If Paradise Is) Half as Nice.” Transitioned to a solo career in the 1970s, releasing albums such as "Spider Jiving" and engaging in collaborations with notable musicians. Throughout the career, Fairweather Low provided guitar work for several prominent artists, showcasing talent in both live performances and studio recordings. Produced and performed music with various rock and pop acts, maintaining a notable presence in the music industry.

Continue Reading

Lawrence Wright

Journalist and author of 'The Looming Tower'
Born
August 2nd, 1947 77 years ago

An American journalist and author, contributed extensively to topics on terrorism and the events surrounding September 11 attacks. Wrote 'The Looming Tower', a Pulitzer Prize-winning book detailing the rise of al-Qaeda and the events leading to the attacks. Worked as a staff writer for The New Yorker, covering significant national and international issues. Also involved in screenplay writing and produced a documentary focusing on Texas's changing culture.

Continue Reading

Lamar Hunt

American businessman; AFL co-founder
Born
August 2nd, 1932 92 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2006 18 years ago — 74 years old

An American businessman played a significant role in the development of professional football and tennis in the United States. Co-founded the American Football League in 1960, which later merged with the National Football League. Also instrumental in the creation of World Championship Tennis, helping to elevate the sport's profile. Actively involved in owning and managing various sports teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL and the Kansas City Wizards in Major League Soccer. Contributed to the establishment of the MLS Cup and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Received several accolades, including induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Continue Reading