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

Barbara Lawrence

American model and actress in Hollywood
Born
February 24th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1930, this American model and actress gained popularity during the 1950s. She was a prominent figure in the modeling industry before transitioning into acting. Achievements include appearances in notable films such as 'Oklahoma!' and 'The Girl Next Door.' In addition to film, she modeled for various magazines and advertisements. This actress maintained a career in Hollywood for several decades before eventually stepping back from the spotlight.

Continue Reading

Renata Scotto

Italian soprano with opera achievements
Born
February 24th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 89 years old

An Italian soprano gained prominence in the world of opera, performing leading roles with various prestigious opera companies. Renowned for a powerful voice and dramatic interpretations, performances included appearances at the Metropolitan Opera in productions such as 'La Bohème' and 'Madame Butterfly'. Throughout a celebrated career, collaborated with famed conductors and staged acclaimed performances. Renowned for a lasting influence on the operatic community, contributions included teaching and mentoring aspiring singers.

Continue Reading

John Vernon

Canadian-American actor known for roles in films
Born
February 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
February 1st, 2005 20 years ago — 72 years old

A Canadian-American actor, prominent in film and television, became recognized for distinctive performances throughout a prolific career. Featured in the movie 'Animal House' as Dean Vernon Wormer, this role became iconic and showcased a blend of authority and humor. Additionally, starred in the television series 'Kung Fu' as the character 'The Sheriff.' His versatility allowed appearances in various other genres, contributing to a memorable legacy in the entertainment industry. Work spanned from the 1960s until the early 2000s, leaving a notable mark in popular culture, especially within comedic and dramatic roles.

Continue Reading

Johan Christian Dahl

Norwegian-German Romantic painter
Born
February 24th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1788, a pivotal figure in the German Romantic movement, became prominent for landscape painting. Studied in Dresden and was heavily influenced by nature and the German romantic style. Developed a distinct approach to capturing atmospheric light and natural beauty, focusing on regions in Norway and Germany. Contributed to the establishment of the German Romantic landscape tradition and influenced subsequent artists with unique interpretations of Norwegian vistas. Participated in exhibitions and received recognition for works celebrating Scandinavia's landscapes.

Continue Reading

Emilio Rivera

American actor, notable for Sons of Anarchy
Born
February 24th, 1961 64 years ago

Born in 1961, a prominent American actor recognized for roles in television and film, including a significant role as Marcus Alvarez in the series Sons of Anarchy. He has appeared in numerous other projects, contributing to both his television and film careers. With a strong presence in the entertainment industry, Rivera has brought various characters to life across a range of genres.

Continue Reading

Leo von Caprivi

German politician and chancellor
Born
February 24th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1899 126 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a German general and politician, Caprivi held the position of Chancellor of Germany from 1890 to 1894. His tenure was marked by a focus on social and economic reforms, steering the country through a period of political transformation. Caprivi sought to improve relations with foreign powers and initiated various domestic policies aimed at modernizing Germany's economy. Prior to his chancellorship, he had a distinguished military career and played significant roles in various campaigns, contributing to Germany's military strategies.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on June 19th

Bernhard Walther

German astronomer and humanist
Born
1430 595 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1504 521 years ago — 74 years old

An astronomer and humanist, contributions focused on the study of celestial bodies and the promotion of humanistic values during the Renaissance. Founded an astronomical observatory in Nuremberg, which was instrumental in the advancement of astronomical observations. Also engaged in cartography and produced several maps that reflected the astronomical knowledge of the time. Walther's works contributed to the broader humanist movement, emphasizing the value of rational thought and empirical evidence.

Continue Reading

Étienne Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire

French biologist and zoologist
Born
April 15th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1844 181 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in the field of biology, contributions included the development of a theory of morphological unity among animals. Pioneered the study of comparative anatomy and established connections among various species. A founding member of the Société Zoologique de France, significant engagements included work on the classification of organisms and the impact of environment on biological development. Collaborated with notable contemporaries in scientific advancements.

Continue Reading

Ze'ev Schiff

Journalist and author on Israeli affairs
Born
July 1st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2007 18 years ago — 74 years old

Born in France and later moving to Israel, a prominent journalist and author focused on military and political issues in the Middle East. Contributed extensively to Haaretz and wrote several books that offered insights into Israel’s military strategies and geopolitical dilemmas. Engaged in public discourse through articles and lectures, influencing views on defense and foreign policy. An analytical and critical voice in discussions concerning Israel's security landscape.

Continue Reading

Leo Jud

Swiss theologian and reformer
Born
1482 543 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1542 483 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure during the Reformation in Switzerland, this individual played a significant role in the development of Protestant theology. Associated with the city of Zurich, contributions included theological writings that shaped the beliefs of the community. Worked closely with notable reformers and participated in key discussions that influenced religious practices. His efforts laid the groundwork for future Protestant movements in the region.

Continue Reading

Herbert Vaughan

English cardinal and Catholic leader
Born
1832 193 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1903 122 years ago — 71 years old

Vaughan served as a prominent English cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church during the late 19th century. He was appointed as the Archbishop of Westminster and played a significant role in the church's affairs in England. Vaughan was actively involved in various ecclesiastical and social issues, advocating for the needs of the Catholic community. His leadership helped shape the church's response to contemporary challenges, including education and religious unity.

Continue Reading

Ramón López Velarde

Mexican poet and author of 'Zodiac'
Born
June 15th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1921 104 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1888, a significant figure in early 20th-century Mexican literature, contributed to the literary movement known as Modernismo. Authored several celebrated poems, with 'Zodiac' standing out as a pivotal work that explored themes of love, identity, and nature. Worked as a journalist and advocated for cultural and political causes through writing. His poetry is characterized by rich imagery and emotional depth, earning a lasting legacy in Mexican literature.

Continue Reading