Louis Zamperini
Runner and WWII veteran
Born
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Born on January 26, 1917, a distinguished runner excelled in track and field, earning a spot in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Served as a bombardier in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. After his plane crashed in the Pacific Ocean, he survived on a life raft for over a month and endured hardships as a prisoner of war in Japan. Post-war, engaged in motivational speaking and authored an autobiography, detailing his experiences and resilience.
Competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics
Survived 47 days adrift at sea
Endured over two years as a POW
Other People Born on January 26th
Zakaria Bakkali
Belgian footballer with PSV Eindhoven
Born
January 26th, 1996 30 years ago
Born in Belgium in 1996, played professional football primarily as a winger. Started career at RSC Anderlecht before moving to PSV Eindhoven, where gained recognition. Featured in the UEFA Champions League and earned multiple appearances for the Belgium national team. Later played for several clubs in Spain and Portugal, showcasing talent in various competitions.
Continue ReadingSione Katoa
Rugby league player, Penrith Panthers
Born
January 26th, 1995 31 years ago
Born in 1995, a professional rugby league player from New Zealand. Played as a winger and debuted in the NRL with the Penrith Panthers. Gained recognition for strong performances on the field, contributing to the team's dynamic offense. Transitioned to the Canterbury Bulldogs in 2021, further establishing reputation in the league. Represented New Zealand at the international level, showcasing talent in rugby league competitions.
Continue ReadingLeonardo Balerdi
Argentine footballer with Boca Juniors
Born
January 26th, 1999 27 years ago
This footballer began his professional career with Boca Juniors, debuting in 2016. Later, he transferred to Borussia Dortmund in 2019. During time with Boca Juniors, contributions helped the team secure several national titles. After moving to Europe, played primarily as a central defender and participated in Bundesliga matches. Represented Argentina in youth international competitions, showcasing talent at various levels.
Continue ReadingManti Te'o
American football player, linebacker
Born
January 26th, 1991 35 years ago
Played college football at the University of Notre Dame, where gained national attention as a linebacker. Achieved significant recognition in 2012 when selected as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first linebacker to receive this honor since 1990. Drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Played for the Chargers until 2016, later joining the New Orleans Saints and contributing to the team's defense. Known for leadership on and off the field, and for his remarkable collegiate career, including being a consensus All-American.
Continue ReadingBrandon Bolden
American football running back
Born
January 26th, 1990 36 years ago
Played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Spent significant portions of a professional career with the New England Patriots. Contributed to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl championship. Also played for the Miami Dolphins and had notable moments in their roster.
Continue ReadingMontrezl Harrell
Basketball Player, NBA Sixth Man of the Year
Born
January 26th, 1994 32 years ago
Professional basketball player from the United States. Played college basketball at the University of Louisville. Entered the NBA in 2015 and played for teams including the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, and the Charlotte Hornets. Achieved recognition as the NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2020 while with the Clippers. Known for notable scoring and rebounding abilities throughout his career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 2nd
Michael Cimino
American film director of The Deer Hunter
Born
February 3rd, 1939 87 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 77 years old
A director, producer, and screenwriter from the United States who gained recognition for creating significant films in the 1970s and 1980s. Achieved critical acclaim with the 1978 film The Deer Hunter, which received five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Also directed Heaven's Gate in 1980, which became notable in film history for its production issues and mixed reception. Contributed to the New Hollywood era with storytelling and cinematic techniques that explored complex themes.
Continue ReadingByron Bernstein
Twitch streamer and content creator
Born
1989 37 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 31 years old
Established a prominent presence on Twitch, primarily through engaging gameplay and commentary. Built a dedicated following by streaming popular games such as League of Legends and H1Z1. Developed a distinctive brand associated with honesty and transparent communication, resonating with many fans and fellow gamers. Participated in charity streams to support various causes, emphasizing community engagement.
Continue ReadingLee Iacocca
Businessman and author, Chrysler CEO
Born
October 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2019 6 years ago — 94 years old
An influential businessman and author, played a pivotal role in the automotive industry, particularly as CEO of Chrysler Corporation during the 1980s. Oversaw Chrysler's revival from the brink of bankruptcy, implementing innovative strategies that included the introduction of popular vehicles such as the Dodge Caravan and the Chrysler minivan. Authored several books, with 'Iacocca: An Autobiography' gaining significant popularity, detailing personal experiences and business philosophies. Contributed to automotive advancements and consumer-focused marketing approaches, shaping the landscape of American cars during his tenure. His leadership style and business acumen were widely recognized within the industry.
Continue ReadingAnthony Llewellyn
Welsh-American chemist and astronaut
Born
April 22nd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 80 years old
A chemist and astronaut contributed to the U.S. space program. Participated in the Gemini 10 mission in 1966, which accomplished significant scientific experiments and docking maneuvers. Engaged in research related to chemical propulsion systems for spacecraft. Worked extensively in aerospace and chemical research, influencing technological advancements within the industry.
Continue ReadingMochtar Lubis
Indonesian journalist and author
Born
March 7th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2004 21 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1922, this individual was a significant figure in Indonesian journalism and literature. His writings often addressed themes of social justice and democracy. The work 'The Prostitute' gained attention for its candid portrayal of societal issues in Indonesia. Throughout the career, this individual faced challenges due to political environments, leading to detention and censorship. Despite these obstacles, continued to write and advocate for freedom of expression.
Continue ReadingÁngela Jeria
Chilean archaeologist and cultural researcher
Born
1926 100 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2020 5 years ago — 94 years old
Contributed significantly to the study of Chilean archaeology, focusing on pre-Columbian cultures and their impact on society. Conducted extensive research on the Mapuche and Atacameño cultures. Engaged in numerous excavations, uncovering artifacts that provided insights into the historical development of human settlements in Chile. Worked as a professor, sharing knowledge and mentoring future archaeologists.
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