Joseph Banks

Botanist and explorer of the Pacific

Joseph Banks - Botanist and explorer of the Pacific
Born

February 24th, 1743
282 years ago

Died

June 19th, 1820
205 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A significant figure in the field of botany and exploration during the 18th century. Undertook an influential expedition to the Pacific Ocean aboard the HMS Endeavour, which lasted from 1768 to 1771. Collected thousands of plant specimens during the voyage, many of which were previously unknown to Europe. Served as president of the Royal Society from 1778 to 1820, promoting scientific research and exploration. Contributed extensively to the advancement of botanical knowledge through publications and his role in fostering the study of natural history.

Expedition to the Pacific aboard HMS Endeavour

President of the Royal Society from 1778 to 1820

Other People Born on February 24th

Arrigo Boito

Italian composer and librettist
Born
February 24th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1918 107 years ago — 76 years old

One of the notable figures in Italian opera, a career included significant contributions as a composer and librettist. Authored the librettos for several major operas, including 'Falstaff' and 'Otello' for Giuseppe Verdi. Also composed operas such as 'Mefistofele', which received acclaim for its lyrical depth and innovative approach. Boito made contributions to the Italian music scene as a journalist and critic, influencing contemporary composers and the direction of Italian opera during his time.

Continue Reading

Samuele Vignato

Football player, notable Serie A performer
Born
February 24th, 2004 21 years ago

Professional football player, active in Serie A. Made debut with Bologna FC in 2021, showcasing skills as a winger. Represented Italy at youth levels, gaining attention for technical ability and creativity on the field. Continues to develop as a player in top-flight Italian football.

Continue Reading

Dominic Chianese

American actor and singer, best known for The Sopranos
Born
February 24th, 1931 94 years ago

An accomplished actor and singer was born in 1931 in the United States. The artistic career began in theater before transitioning to television and film. The role of Corrado Soprano, Jr. in the acclaimed series The Sopranos garnered significant recognition. In addition to acting, contributed to music through performances and recordings, showcasing vocal talent. The groundwork laid in local theater paved the way for a versatile career spanning multiple decades.

Continue Reading

Edward James Olmos

American actor known for Stand and Deliver
Born
February 24th, 1947 78 years ago

This actor and director gained recognition for significant roles in film and television, particularly in the 1988 film 'Stand and Deliver' portraying Jaime Escalante. This performance highlighted the challenges faced in education and earned acclaim. In television, starred as Commander William Adama in the series 'Battlestar Galactica', which gained a cult following and received critical praise. Additional contributions include directing and producing various projects that reflect cultural themes and social issues.

Continue Reading

Michel Legrand

Pianist and composer of film scores
Born
February 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent French pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the world of film music. Composed over 200 film scores, blending jazz, classical, and popular music styles. Gained acclaim for work on films such as 'The Umbrellas of Cherbourg', 'Summer of '42', and 'The Thomas Crown Affair'. In addition to film scores, wrote numerous songs and musical theater pieces. His compositions have been performed globally and received multiple awards throughout a prolific career.

Continue Reading

John of Austria

Spanish military leader and noble
Born
February 24th, 1545 480 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1578 446 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1545, this individual became a prominent military leader in the Spanish Empire. He served as a commander during the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, where his forces achieved a significant naval victory against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership in the battle contributed to the waning of Ottoman naval power in the Mediterranean. As a half-brother of King Philip II of Spain, he also held the title of governor of the Netherlands, where he sought to maintain Spanish control amidst rising dissent. He managed military campaigns in various regions throughout his career, becoming an influential figure in 16th-century European politics and warfare.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 19th

Frank Borzage

American film director notable for romance
Born
April 23rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1962 63 years ago — 69 years old

Active in the early to mid-20th century, contributed to the film industry as a director and actor. Directed films during the silent and sound eras, particularly recognized for romantic dramas. Notable works include 'Seventh Heaven', 'The Mortal Storm', and 'History is Made at Night'. Won two Academy Awards for Best Director, first for 'Bad Girl' and second for 'The Great Ziegfeld'.

Continue Reading

Eleanor de Montfort

Welsh princess and political figure
Born
1252 773 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1282 743 years ago — 30 years old

Eleanor de Montfort was a Welsh princess and the daughter of Simon de Montfort, a notable figure in the English civil strife known as the Second Barons' War. Marrying Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the Prince of Wales, strengthened her family's ties to Wales. Eleanor actively participated in the political dynamics of her time, particularly during her husband's conflicts with English monarchs. After Llywelyn's death in battle, she sought to uphold their children's rights and influence in Welsh affairs. Eleanor's life reflects the turbulent period of Welsh resistance against English rule.

Continue Reading

Len Bias

Basketball player, 1986 NBA Draft second pick
Born
November 18th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1986 39 years ago — 22 years old

Played college basketball at the University of Maryland from 1982 to 1986. Helped lead the Terrapins to the NCAA Tournament and earned accolades as a two-time ACC Player of the Year. Selected by the Boston Celtics as the second overall pick in the 1986 NBA Draft. Tragically passed away two days later due to a cocaine overdose, which drew national attention to issues of drug use and its impact on athletes.

Continue Reading

Norbert Tiemann

Soldier and 32nd Governor of Nebraska
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old

Served as an American soldier and politician, holding the position of the 32nd Governor of Nebraska from 1967 to 1971. Before entering politics, served in the United States Army during World War II. Engaged in various community and political initiatives throughout the state of Nebraska during and after governorship.

Continue Reading

C. V. Hartman

Swiss botanist and anthropologist
Born
1862 163 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1941 84 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of botany and anthropology. Conducted research that combined botanical sciences with cultural anthropology. Explored plant ecology in various regions and documented indigenous plant uses. Published works that provided insights into the relationship between plants and human societies.

Continue Reading

James Joseph Sweeney

Bishop and leader in the Catholic Church
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1968 57 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland from 1950 until 1968. During tenure, addressed various social issues and played a significant role in the post-World War II expansion of the Catholic Church in the region. Encouraged dialogue and outreach within the community, emphasizing the importance of education and social justice. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, contributing to discussions that aimed to modernize the Church’s approach towards various aspects of society.

Continue Reading