John Dollond
Optician and astronomer with telescopes
An English optician and astronomer contributed significantly to the development of telescopes. Invented the achromatic lens, which improved clarity in observing celestial bodies and helped advance the field of astronomy. Established a successful optical business and served as a member of the Royal Society. Had an enduring influence on optical science and contributed to various advancements in lens design.
Invented the achromatic lens
Applied advanced lens-making techniques
Other People Born on June 21st
William Vickrey
Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 21st, 1914 112 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 82 years old
An economist and academic contributed to the theory of incentive systems and auction design. Vickrey's work on the theory of second-price auctions established foundational concepts in auction theory. He received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1996 for his analysis of incentives under asymmetric information and for his contributions to auction theory. Vickrey served as a professor at Columbia University and was actively involved in various economic research initiatives throughout his career.
Continue ReadingKathleen O'Kelly-Kennedy
Australian wheelchair basketball player
Born
June 21st, 1986 40 years ago
Competed in wheelchair basketball representing Australia. Participated in the 2008 Summer Paralympics in Beijing. Played for the Canberra Nationals and achieved success in various championships. Contributed to the development of the sport in Australia.
Continue ReadingWilliam Brede Kristensen
Norwegian historian of religion
Born
June 21st, 1867 159 years ago
Died
1953 73 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of religion as a historian. Focused on the interplay between religion and culture, exploring the underlying sociological and psychological aspects of religious belief. Published multiple influential works, including 'The Meaning of Religion' and 'A History of Religions', which analyzed various religious traditions and their development over time. Engaged in academic discussions and inquiries that shed light on the complexities of religious phenomena. Served in various educational and scholarly roles throughout a long career.
Continue ReadingAlexander J. Dallas
United States Secretary of the Treasury
Born
June 21st, 1759 267 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1817 209 years ago — 57 years old
Jamaican-American lawyer and politician served as the sixth United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1814 to 1815. Played a key role in managing the financial affairs of the nation during the War of 1812. Prior to this position, held the office of the Attorney General of Pennsylvania and contributed significantly to state legal matters. Also served as the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania before his appointment to the federal treasury. Participated in various initiatives to stabilize the economy and public finances.
Continue ReadingO.C. Smith
R&B and jazz singer with hits like 'Little Green Apples'
Born
June 21st, 1932 94 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 69 years old
An American R&B and jazz singer, significant achievements occurred during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained recognition with the release of the hit single 'Little Green Apples' in 1968, which reached the top of the charts. Also recorded the popular song 'The Cover of the Rolling Stone.' Conducted live performances across various venues, showcasing a smooth vocal style and engaging stage presence. In addition to a successful recording career, united the genres of R&B and jazz effectively, attracting a wide audience.
Continue ReadingTony Scott
Director of 'Top Gun' and 'True Romance'
Born
June 21st, 1944 82 years ago
Died
August 19th, 2012 14 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1944, this English-American director and producer gained prominence in the film industry for creating high-octane action films characterized by their stylistic approach and innovative use of visual effects. Significant contributions occurred in the late 20th century, particularly with impactful works that captivated audiences globally. Collaborated frequently with notable actors and was instrumental in shaping the action genre during the 1980s and 1990s. Established a reputation for producing films that became cultural touchstones, especially within Hollywood circles. Continued to explore cinematic narratives until passing away in 2012.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 30th
Lionel Stander
Actor and activist known for 'Harts of the West'
Born
January 11th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1994 31 years ago — 86 years old
An American actor and activist, recognized for a career that spanned several decades in film and television. Gained significant attention for the role in the television series 'Harts of the West', showcasing talent in both comedy and drama. Engaged in various social and political causes, advocating for issues such as civil rights. Contributed to the entertainment industry during a time of significant change, both in terms of acting roles and personal convictions.
Continue ReadingShigeru Mizuki
Japanese manga artist and author
Born
March 8th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
An influential Japanese manga artist and author specialized in horror and supernatural themes. Gained recognition for the creation of the manga series 'GeGeGe no Kitaro', which features a variety of yokai and folklore elements. His work offered a unique blend of comedy and horror, capturing the imaginations of readers in Japan and beyond. Mizuki's illustrative style and storytelling techniques showcased the rich tapestry of Japanese mythology, earning him acclaim in the manga industry. Beyond manga, authored several books exploring yokai and folklore, contributing to the cultural understanding of these themes. Received multiple awards, including the Eisner Award for the work 'Kitaro'.
Continue ReadingHélène Boucher
French aviator and record-holder
Born
May 23rd, 1908 118 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1934 91 years ago — 26 years old
Achieved significant milestones in aviation as a pioneering French pilot. Competed in the Coupe Deutsch de la Meurthe and set multiple speed records in the 1930s. Became the first woman to fly a series of races, showcasing remarkable skill and determination. Her contributions to aviation were cut short by a tragic accident in 1939, yet her legacy remains influential in the history of women in aviation.
Continue ReadingLou Carnesecca
Basketball coach and player, St. John's
Born
January 5th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2024 1 years ago — 99 years old
Played college basketball at St. John's University and later became head coach of the St. John's Red Storm from 1965 to 1977 and again from 1985 to 1992. Led the team to numerous NCAA Tournaments, including a trip to the Final Four in 1985. Recognized for a distinctive style and memorable sweaters, he contributed significantly to college basketball during his career. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992.
Continue ReadingArthur Currie
Canadian general and military leader
Born
December 5th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1933 92 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent Canadian military leader, served with distinction during World War I. Became the first Canadian commander of the Canadian Corps in 1917. Oversaw several significant battles, including the Battle of Vimy Ridge, which occurred in April 1917. Instrumental in the development of tactics that utilized combined arms and innovation in warfare. Played a vital role in the Hundred Days Offensive, leading to the end of the war. Post-war, emphasized the importance of military training and preparation.
Continue ReadingJarbom Gamlin
Indian politician and Chief Minister
Born
April 16th, 1961 65 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2014 11 years ago — 53 years old
Served as the seventh Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. Engaged in politics as a member of the Indian National Congress. Held various important positions within the state's government, contributing to legislative development and public administration. Advocated for regional development and welfare policies throughout tenure.
Continue Reading