John Reith
Scottish broadcaster and BBC co-founder
Born
July 20th, 1889
136 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1971
54 years ago — 81 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Co-founded the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in 1922 and served as its first general director. Under leadership, the BBC established a reputation for high-quality programming and innovative broadcasting techniques. Advocated for the public service broadcasting model, emphasizing the importance of information, education, and entertainment in media. Introduced various radio and television formats that set standards for later programming.
Founded the BBC
Served as the BBC's first general director
Established public service broadcasting principles
Other People Born on July 20th
Tadeusz Reichstein
Born in Poland, later became a Swiss citizen. Conducted significant research in chemistry, particularly steroid hormones. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1950 for contributions to steroid chemistry. Served as a professor at the University of Zurich, influencing future generations of chemists through academic leadership and research. Contributed to improving the understanding of hormonal functions in the human body.
Continue ReadingBelaid Abdessalam
Belaid Abdessalam served as the Prime Minister of Algeria during a critical period in the 1990s. His tenure included navigating the country through a challenging civil conflict. Abdessalam played a significant role in political reforms and economic strategies aimed at stabilization. Prior to his role as Prime Minister, he held various governmental positions, contributing to Algeria's political landscape and governance during a time of national turmoil.
Continue ReadingGeorge Llewelyn Davies
Served as a soldier in the British Army during World War I. Fought in significant battles on the Western Front. Participated in the First Battle of the Somme, where he sustained injuries. Later served in the Royal Flying Corps. Was part of the military efforts that contributed to the overall war strategy.
Continue ReadingAlberto Santos-Dumont
An early aviation pioneer contributed significantly to the development of lighter-than-air flight and heavier-than-air flying machines. Achieved notoriety for flying the 14-bis, which made a public flight in Paris in 1906, marking one of the first successful heavier-than-air flights. Also known for the dirigible No. 6, which won the Deutsch de la Meurthe prize in 1901 for the fastest flight from the Parc de Bagatelle to the Eiffel Tower. Made contributions to aviation design, advocating for aviation as a feasible mode of transport.
Continue ReadingT. G. Sheppard
Born in 1944, this American singer-songwriter became a prominent figure in country music during the late 1970s and 1980s. The artist gained significant fame with hits such as "Last Cheater's Waltz" and "Devil in the Bottle." Over the years, the singer released numerous albums and singles, establishing a successful career that included both performing and songwriting. The artist was also recognized for contributions to the genre, resulting in several awards and nominations throughout a lengthy career in the music industry.
Continue ReadingTony Oliva
A Cuban-American baseball player and coach, played primarily as a right fielder for the Minnesota Twins between 1962 and 1976. Achieved significant success in his career, earning three batting titles and was selected for the All-Star Game eight times. In 1964, received the American League Rookie of the Year award. After retiring as a player, transitioned to coaching and continued his involvement with baseball. Oliva's contributions to the game extended beyond his playing days, as he remained a prominent figure in the Twins' organization.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 16th
Alexander Stuart
Served as the 9th Premier of New South Wales from 1891 to 1894. Played a significant role in the politics of New South Wales during a time of economic growth and development. Contributed to infrastructure improvements and was involved in land reform initiatives that shaped the agricultural landscape of the region.
Continue ReadingNorman Ian MacKenzie
A prominent journalist and author, focused on historical narratives and commentary. Worked for various prestigious publications and contributed significantly to the fields of journalism and literature. Notable for the exploration of political and social issues through written works. Authored several books, delving into subjects such as British history and contemporary political commentary. Gained respect within literary communities for insightful analyses and thorough research.
Continue ReadingMarguerite de Angeli
An accomplished author and illustrator, this individual created numerous children's books that gained widespread recognition. Early works included illustrations for various periodicals and books. The first major solo publication was 'Meet a Lively Literature,' which garnered attention. The story 'The Door in the Wall' received a Newbery Medal, further solidifying a prominent place in children's literature. The style combined classic storytelling with captivating illustrations, enchanting young readers and fostering a love for reading.
Continue ReadingJohn Churchill
Born in 1650, a prominent general and statesman during the early 18th century, played a crucial role in the War of the Spanish Succession. Served as a commander for the British Army, achieving significant victories such as the Battle of Blenheim in 1704. Elevated to the title of 1st Duke of Marlborough, held the position of Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire. His military strategies and alliances were instrumental in shaping British military history.
Continue ReadingWernher von Braun
A prominent rocket engineer and space architect, developed the V-2 rocket during World War II. Emigrated to the United States after the war and became instrumental in the space program. Contributed to the design and execution of the Saturn V launch vehicle, which successfully sent astronauts to the Moon during the Apollo missions. Advocated for space exploration and played a key role in NASA's early achievements in space technology.
Continue ReadingRorgon I
A Frankish nobleman who held significant power during the 9th century, ruling as Count of Maine. His leadership contributed to the consolidation of local power in a time of regional instability. Engaged in various military campaigns that supported the Carolingian Empire's expansion, Rorgon I's authority was recognized in the socio-political landscape of the era. His governance included management of lands and resources that were crucial to the local economy and stability. Rorgon I died in 840, leaving a legacy of regional influence.
Continue Reading