John William Finn
American lieutenant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
Died
2010
16 years ago — 101 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
United States
Links & References
Served in the United States Navy during World War II. Participated in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, while stationed at Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay. Displayed extraordinary heroism in defending the air station against enemy aircraft. Received the Medal of Honor for actions during the attack, demonstrating high levels of bravery and self-sacrifice.
Received the Medal of Honor for valor
Defended Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay during Pearl Harbor attack
Other People Born on July 24th
Billy Taylor
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
July 24th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed to the genre as a pianist, composer, and educator. Played an essential role in popularizing jazz through performances and recordings. Served as a long-time host of 'Billy Taylor's Jazz' on PBS, showcasing the music and its artists. Worked extensively in music education and was active in various cultural organizations promoting the arts.
Continue ReadingCatherine of Saxony
Archduchess of Austria
Born
July 24th, 1468 557 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1524 501 years ago — 55 years old
Born into the House of Wettin, this archduchess served as a significant political figure in the early 16th century. Marriage to the influential Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I facilitated a union between powerful dynasties. Her tenure was marked by her role in the upbringing of Habsburg children, with particular focus on stabilizing political alliances through strategic marriages.
Continue ReadingHeinz
Singer-songwriter and bass player
Born
July 24th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 58 years old
Born in Germany and later moving to England, a musician gained recognition in the music scene during the 1960s and 1970s. With a blend of pop and rock influences, significant contributions came through songwriting and performing. The most notable work includes the song 'Just Like Eddie,' which became a hit. An iconic bass player, collaborations with other artists expanded reach and creativity in the industry.
Continue ReadingErnest Bloch
Composer of 'Schelomo' and educator
Born
July 24th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1959 66 years ago — 78 years old
Born in Switzerland and later becoming an American citizen, a significant career in music composition and education was established. Studies at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels and the École Normale de Musique in Paris laid the foundation. Contribution to American music included teaching at various institutions. Major compositions included 'Schelomo', 'Concerto Grosso No. 1', and 'Spanish Night'. Bloch's work often reflected Jewish themes and traditions, integrating them into classical music. Influences included aspects of folk music, and a commitment to expressing cultural identity through composition marked the overall artistic output.
Continue ReadingJuan Vicente Gómez
Venezuelan general and politician
Born
July 24th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1935 91 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 27th President of Venezuela from 1908 to 1935. Held significant power during the long-term dictatorship that shaped Venezuelan politics. Implemented policies that focused on development, infrastructure, and oil resources while maintaining a strong grip on the military and political opponents. Engaged in various conflicts to consolidate control over the country, ultimately leading to a centralized state.
Continue ReadingJun'ichirō Tanizaki
Japanese author and literary figure
Born
July 24th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1965 60 years ago — 79 years old
Tanizaki was a prominent Japanese author whose works explored themes of beauty and cultural identity. Writing during the 20th century, significant contributions included novels, essays, and translations. The literary style often reflected the tension between traditional Japanese aesthetics and Western influences. Received the Akutagawa Prize in 1929 for the short novel 'Shunkinshū'. Important works included 'The Makioka Sisters', which depicted a declining upper-class family, and 'In Praise of Shadows', an essay that examined Japanese aesthetics.
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