John DeLorean
Automotive engineer and business founder
An American engineer and businessman founded the DeLorean Motor Company in 1975. DeLorean initiated the production of the DMC-12, an iconic car known for its stainless steel body and distinctive gull-wing doors. Prior to establishing his company, served as a chief engineer at General Motors, overseeing the development of the Pontiac GTO, which contributed to the popularization of the muscle car segment in the 1960s. The automobile industry saw significant innovations attributed to work in automotive design and engineering.
Founded DeLorean Motor Company
Engineered the Pontiac GTO
Other People Born on January 6th
Ludvík Daněk
Czech discus thrower with Olympic medal
Born
January 6th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1998 27 years ago — 61 years old
Competed in discus throw, achieving prominence in the 1960s. Won a silver medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Secured the title at the European Championships in 1966 and 1969. Set multiple national records during athletic career.
Continue ReadingJoan of Arc
French military leader and saint
Born
January 6th, 1412 614 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1431 594 years ago — 19 years old
Born in 1412, a peasant girl claimed to have received visions from saints instructing her to support Charles VII during the Hundred Years' War. Successfully led French forces to lift the siege of Orléans in 1429, an event pivotal in turning the tide of the war. Later facilitated the coronation of Charles VII at Reims, solidifying his claim to the throne. Captured by Burgundian allies of the English in 1430, tried for heresy, and burned at the stake in 1431. Canonized by the Catholic Church in 1920.
Continue ReadingJedediah Smith
American explorer and author of journals
Born
January 6th, 1799 227 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1831 194 years ago — 32 years old
An early American explorer, engaged in extensive travels across the western United States. Explored regions that are now part of California, Nevada, and Utah. His journeys contributed to the mapping and understanding of the American West. Authored detailed journals describing encounters with Native American tribes, wildlife, and landscapes. Played a significant role in the fur trade and established new routes that facilitated later westward expansion.
Continue ReadingMike Boit
Kenyan runner and academic distance athlete
Born
January 6th, 1949 77 years ago
A prominent middle-distance runner, contributed significantly to athletics during the 1970s. Competed in the 800 meters and 1500 meters events, achieving notable success on the international stage. Represented Kenya at the Olympic Games, securing a bronze medal in the 800 meters in 1972. Held the world record in the 1000 meters, showcasing versatility across various distances. Pursued an academic career after retiring from competitive running, which included roles in sports administration and coaching.
Continue ReadingTom Mix
Western film star and silent movie actor
Born
January 6th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1940 85 years ago — 60 years old
A significant figure in early Hollywood, this actor became a prominent Western star during the silent film era. He starred in over 150 films, many of which established the Western genre in American cinema. His on-screen persona portrayed the ideal cowboy, characterized by a charismatic presence and impressive horsemanship. Mixing stunts and action in his roles captivated audiences and laid the groundwork for future Western films. His impact on the genre earned him a lasting legacy, influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers and actors. Later in life, Mix became involved in various business ventures and continued to be a figure in popular culture.
Continue ReadingSam Rayburn
American politician and House Speaker
Born
January 6th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1961 64 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent American politician, served as the 48th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1940 to 1961. Played a significant role in shaping major legislation during the mid-20th century. Advocated for key issues such as civil rights, social security, and education. His leadership during critical periods of American history helped navigate the complexities of post-war governance. Participated actively in the Democratic Party, influencing both national policies and local affairs.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 19th
Pope Clement XI
Papacy during the War of Spanish Succession
Born
July 23rd, 1649 376 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1721 304 years ago — 71 years old
Served as pope from 1700 until death in 1721. Addressed various theological issues and papal authority while overseeing the church during significant European conflicts. Enhanced the Roman Catholic Church's role in European politics, particularly during the War of Spanish Succession. Promoted ecclesiastical reforms and supported missions in the Americas and Asia.
Continue ReadingFred Phelps
American lawyer and founder of a church
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
A lawyer and pastor, founded the Westboro Baptist Church in 1955 in Topeka, Kansas. The church became widely recognized for its controversial protests and demonstrations against various social issues, particularly its anti-LGBTQ+ stance. Phelps led the church, promoting its ideologies and participating in numerous high-profile protests. The organization gained national attention through its picketing at military funerals, claiming it was a message from God about the nation's moral decline. Phelps remained a polarizing figure until his death in 2014.
Continue ReadingJack Mansell
Footballer and Manager
Born
1927 99 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 89 years old
Played as a forward for various clubs including Liverpool and Cardiff City. Transitioned to management, leading teams such as Newport County. Contributed to the development of football during the mid-20th century through both playing and coaching roles.
Continue ReadingGlynn Lunney
American engineer for NASA missions
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 85 years old
An engineer played a key role in the Apollo space program and later contributed to the Space Shuttle program at NASA. Significant responsibilities included serving as a flight director during critical missions, including Apollo 10, which served as a prelude to the first Moon landing. Lunney's expertise and leadership were instrumental in managing flight operations and ensuring mission success. He also worked on the development of the Space Shuttle and oversaw its missions, emphasizing safety and reliability.
Continue ReadingHugo Munthe-Kaas
Norwegian intelligence agent
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
Served as an intelligence agent during World War II with a focus on operations in Nazi-occupied Norway. Participated in various missions aimed at gathering information and aiding resistance efforts. Played a significant role in the operations that helped secure Norway's liberation from German control. Continued involvement in intelligence activities post-war, contributing to the development of Norway's intelligence services.
Continue ReadingEmma Bell Miles
American writer and poet
Born
October 19th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1919 106 years ago — 39 years old
Born in 1879, a prominent American writer, poet, and artist contributed significantly to the literary and artistic communities. She wrote extensively about the Appalachian region, reflecting its culture and people. Her work often highlighted the struggles and resilience of mountain life. Publications included poetry, essays, and illustrations that gained recognition in various literary circles. Miles's book, "The Spirit of the Mountains," effectively captured the essence of her surroundings, merging her art and literary talents. She also played a role in the early 20th-century promotion of Appalachian aesthetics and traditions through her writings. Her artistic output demonstrated a deep connection to nature and local heritage.
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