Lee Petty
Race car driver, three-time NASCAR champion
Born
March 14th, 1914
111 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2000
25 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent figure in the history of stock car racing, contributed significantly to the sport's development in the 1940s and 1950s. Won three NASCAR Grand National championships in 1954, 1958, and 1959. Participated in a total of 1,100 races, achieving a record of 54 wins during his career. Played a vital role in establishing the Petty family legacy in racing, which continued with his son Richard Petty and grandson Kyle Petty.
Won three NASCAR Grand National championships
Achieved 54 career race wins in NASCAR
Other People Born on March 14th
Jessica Gallagher
An athlete specializing in skiing and cycling, achieved notable success in Paralympic competitions. Competed in Alpine skiing at the 2014 Sochi Winter Paralympics, where earned a bronze medal. Transitioned to cycling and represented Australia at the 2016 Summer Paralympics, securing additional medals. Overcame significant challenges in sports and has contributed to promoting inclusivity in athletics.
Continue ReadingElton Chigumbura
A prominent cricketer from Zimbabwe, notable for contributions to the national team. Played as an all-rounder, showcasing skills in batting and bowling. Served as captain of the Zimbabwean national cricket team. Represented his country in several international formats, including Test, One Day Internationals, and Twenty20 matches. Provided leadership during critical periods for Zimbabwean cricket, with performances that garnered attention in various international competitions.
Continue ReadingNicolas Anelka
A former professional footballer and manager, played as a forward. Began career at Paris Saint-Germain before joining Arsenal in 1997. Played for multiple clubs including Real Madrid, Chelsea, and the French national team. Won the Premier League title with Chelsea in the 2009-2010 season and the FA Cup in 2012. Transitioned to management after retiring, including a stint with the Indian Super League's Mumbai City FC.
Continue ReadingArthur O'Shaughnessy
An English poet and herpetologist contributed significantly to Victorian poetry. Best known for the poem 'Ode', which includes the famous line 'We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams'. Also wrote a notable collection of poems titled 'Songs of the Open Road'. In addition to poetry, engaged in the study of reptiles and amphibians, publishing important works related to herpetology. His dual interests in literature and science marked a unique blend in his contributions.
Continue ReadingRick Dees
A prominent radio host and actor, notable for revolutionizing morning radio with innovative content. Created the novelty song 'Disco Duck,' which became a significant hit in the 1970s, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Hosted the weekly top 40 countdown show 'American Top 40,' which gained widespread popularity and established a new format in radio programming. Contributed to television with appearances on shows such as 'The Rick Dees Show,' blending comedy and music.
Continue ReadingLes Brown
A prominent American bandleader and composer, influential in the big band era. Founded 'Les Brown and His Band of Renown', contributing significantly to the popular music of the time. The band gained recognition for its performances in radio and television, especially during the 1940s and 1950s. Worked extensively with notable singers and musicians, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry. Received awards and accolades for contributions to music and entertainment, cementing a place in American cultural history.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
A. Y. Jackson
A significant figure in Canadian art, contributed to the development of landscape painting. Co-founded the Group of Seven, which sought to create a distinctly Canadian artistic voice. Explored the Canadian wilderness through various mediums, often focusing on the effects of light and color. Worked on the front lines as an official war artist during World War II, capturing the realities of war through painting. Promoted Canadian art through teaching and exhibitions.
Continue ReadingMolly Picon
An accomplished actress and performer, she became famous for her roles in Yiddish theater and later transitioned to Broadway productions. Picon starred in productions such as 'Mame' and 'Milk and Honey,' showcasing her talents in musical theater. She also appeared in films, including 'The Jazz Singer' and 'The Last Days of Pompeii.' Throughout her career, she contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Yiddish culture through performance. Her influence remains notable in American theater and the portrayal of Jewish characters.
Continue ReadingRalph de Monthermer
Born around 1270, held the title of 1st Baron of Monthermer and became the Earl of Gloucester. Involved in the political and military affairs of England during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Played a significant role in the conflicts of the time, contributing to the power dynamics within the English nobility. Died on April 5, 1325.
Continue ReadingSydney Brenner
Significant contributions to molecular biology and genetics occurred throughout a distinguished career. Pioneered research on the development of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism, which provided insights into gene function and development. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Human Genome Project, leading to groundbreaking advancements in genomics. Recognized for efforts in unifying the fields of genetics and developmental biology, contributing foundational knowledge in the study of life sciences.
Continue ReadingJohann Georg Wille
An engraver and art dealer specialized in the techniques of engraving and etching. Introduced innovations in printmaking that enhanced the quality of reproductions. Contributed significantly to the representation of contemporary and historical artwork through prints. Worked extensively in France and had a profound influence on the French school of engraving during the 18th century. Wrote a treatise on the art of engraving that served as a reference for future generations. Established a successful career in both creating engravings and overseeing art distribution.
Continue ReadingCharles XI
Ruled Sweden from 1660 until death in 1697. His reign marked significant administrative reform and centralization of power. Implemented financial policies that stabilized the kingdom's economy. Strengthened the military and established a standing army. Involved in the Great Northern War, though most conflicts were concluded by the time of his death. Lauded for enhancing Sweden's influence in Northern Europe.
Continue Reading