José Valverde
Dominican baseball pitcher and All-Star
A professional baseball pitcher, excelled in Major League Baseball. Played for multiple teams, primarily the Detroit Tigers, New York Mets, and Arizona Diamondbacks. Earned the nickname 'Papa Grande' and became known for a dominant fastball and a distinctive pitching style. Achieved success as a closer, participating in the All-Star Game and leading the league in saves in 2011. Contributed significantly to the Tigers' bullpen during playoff runs. Played in international competitions, representing the Dominican Republic.
Selected to the MLB All-Star Game in 2009
Led MLB in saves in 2011 with the Detroit Tigers
Contributed to the Detroit Tigers' 2012 AL Pennant victory
Other People Born on March 24th
Dario Fo
Italian playwright and Nobel laureate
Born
March 24th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
An Italian playwright, actor, director, and composer, this individual gained recognition for a wide range of works that include plays, novels, and performances. His most significant achievement came with the award of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1997 for his contribution to theater. The unique blend of comedy, political commentary, and social satire found in works created lasting influence on the theatrical landscape. Notable plays include 'Accidental Death of an Anarchist' and 'Can't Pay? Won't Pay!'. A commitment to social issues underscored his artistic endeavors and public engagements throughout a prolific career.
Continue ReadingJohn Harrison
Carpenter and clock-maker, invented Marine chronometer
Born
March 24th, 1693 332 years ago
Died
1776 250 years ago — 83 years old
An English carpenter and clock-maker made significant advancements in horology. Developed the marine chronometer, a device that greatly improved navigation at sea by allowing sailors to determine their longitude. Spent several decades perfecting the design and construction of marine timekeepers, resulting in the H4 chronometer, which successfully demonstrated its accuracy during a transatlantic voyage. His contributions to timekeeping were crucial in solving the problem of navigation while at sea, transforming maritime travel and exploration.
Continue ReadingRobert Hamerling
Austrian poet and playwright
Born
March 24th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1889 136 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1830, contributed significantly to German literature during the 19th century. Hamerling's works often explored themes of nature and human emotion. His notable plays and poetry reflect the Romantic style of the period. Gained attention for the dramatic poem 'Ahasverus', which delved into philosophical themes. Worked as a professor and influenced many budding writers of his time.
Continue ReadingPeter Debye
Physicist with Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Born
March 24th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1966 59 years ago — 82 years old
A physicist and chemist, contributed significantly to the field of physical chemistry. Developed the Debye model for specific heat and the Debye-Hückel theory for electrolyte solutions. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1936 for research on dipole moments and molecular structure. Held academic positions in various institutions, including the University of Göttingen and Cornell University.
Continue ReadingFranciszek Blachnicki
Polish priest and founder of Focolare
Born
March 24th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1987 38 years ago — 65 years old
A Polish priest, established the Focolare movement which focused on promoting unity and ecumenism among different Christian denominations. Initiated various retreats and gatherings aimed at spiritual renewal. Worked extensively in youth work and contributed to the spiritual formation of many in Poland. His efforts emphasized community living and engagement in social issues. He also promoted the idea of living the Gospel through daily actions and relations.
Continue ReadingViktor Kingissepp
Estonian politician and revolutionary leader
Born
March 24th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1922 103 years ago — 34 years old
Active in politics, focused on the establishment of the Republic of Estonia. Participated in the Estonian War of Independence and served as a member of the Estonian Parliament. Advocated for socialist principles and played a role in the formation of the Estonian Workers' Party. Engaged in significant political actions during the tumultuous early 20th century, particularly during the 1917 revolution which influenced the course of Estonia's governance. Engaged in various political movements aimed at establishing a sovereign state.
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