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
Bonnie Franklin
American actress known for One Day at a Time
Born
January 6th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
March 1st, 2013 13 years ago — 69 years old
An actress and singer, this individual gained prominence through a leading role in the television series One Day at a Time, which aired from 1975 to 1984. The character portrayed represented a single mother navigating life with her two daughters, contributing to discussions surrounding familial and societal issues. In addition to television work, major appearances included roles in theater productions and guest appearances in several television shows. With a career spanning several decades, this person also received recognition for stage performances, particularly in the musical Brighton Beach Memoirs.
Continue ReadingDon Gullett
Baseball player and coach, World Series champion
Born
January 6th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
2024 2 years ago — 73 years old
A professional baseball player and coach, achieved prominence as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the Cincinnati Reds, contributing to the team's success during the 1970s. Was part of the Reds' roster that won the World Series in 1975 and 1976. Later served as a pitching coach for various MLB teams, mentoring numerous players and influencing pitching strategies.
Continue ReadingRowan Atkinson
English actor and comedian, 'Mr. Bean'
Born
January 6th, 1955 71 years ago
An English actor, producer, and screenwriter primarily recognized for comedic performances in television and film. Gained widespread popularity with the television series 'Mr. Bean', which showcased a largely silent character and slapstick humor. Also starred in the sitcom 'Blackadder', which featured historical parodies across different eras. Worked on films such as 'Johnny English', portraying a hapless secret agent. Established a distinctive style characterized by physical comedy and minimal dialogue.
Continue ReadingVladimir Kazantsev
Russian middle-distance runner
Born
January 6th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 84 years old
Competed in middle-distance running events, participating in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Achieved notable success in Soviet athletics during the 1940s and 1950s. Established personal bests in various distances, contributing to the development of track and field in Russia.
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 ReadingRoy Asotasi
Rugby league player, Warriors captain
Born
January 6th, 1982 44 years ago
Born in 1982 in New Zealand, this rugby league player played primarily as a prop forward. Career began in 2001 with the South Sydney Rabbitohs in the NRL, where he became a pivotal player. Served as team captain and contributed significantly to the club's success after a 43-year premiership drought, culminating in a championship victory in 2014. Also represented New Zealand on the international stage, showcasing talent and leadership.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 19th
Hugo Munthe-Kaas
Norwegian intelligence agent
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2012 14 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 ReadingPope Clement XI
Papacy during the War of Spanish Succession
Born
July 23rd, 1649 376 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1721 305 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 ReadingRobert S. Strauss
American diplomat, U.S. Ambassador to Russia
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 12 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent American diplomat served as the United States Ambassador to Russia from 1991 to 1992. Held significant roles in government and politics, including serving as the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee in the 1970s. Was instrumental in various international negotiations and served as a special envoy on multiple occasions, contributing to U.S. foreign policy during pivotal moments in history.
Continue ReadingNorman Haworth
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner
Born
March 19th, 1883 143 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1950 76 years ago — 67 years old
An English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the study of carbohydrates. Extensive research on the structure and function of sugars and polysaccharides advanced the field of organic chemistry. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1937 for investigations of sugars and their derivatives. Served as a professor at the University of Birmingham, promoting research and education in chemistry. Authored numerous scientific papers and works that are foundational in carbohydrate chemistry.
Continue ReadingGlynn Lunney
American engineer for NASA missions
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2021 5 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 ReadingLawrence Walsh
Canadian-American lawyer and politician
Born
January 8th, 1912 114 years ago
Died
March 19th, 2014 12 years ago — 102 years old
A Canadian-American lawyer and politician, served as the 4th United States Deputy Attorney General. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan, held the position from 1981 to 1983. Played a significant role in the Iran-Contra investigation, overseeing the legal aspects of the proceedings. His efforts contributed to uncovering a major political scandal involving the Reagan administration's secret arms deals with Iran and the funding of Contra rebels in Nicaragua.
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